Bridgeport, Connecticut is a city of 136,000 on the Pequonnock River and Long Island Sound in Fairfield County. The city, which is about an hour from Hartford, is home to attractions such as the Bridgeport Symphony, the Barnum Museum and Captain's Cove Seaport. It is also the site of several musical events that feature dozens of performances.
The four-day Gathering of the Vibes Music and Arts Festival features musical performances on multiple stages, as well as crafts and food vendors. This annual event, which turned 16 in 2011, takes place in July in the 370-acre Seaside Park. The festival schedules more than 40 hours of performances. Past performers have included The Allman Brothers, Crosby Stills & Nash, James Brown and the Black Crowes. Those attending more than one day can stay in the family camping area. The camping area has 15,000 spaces for tent and RV campers.
The BlackRock Rocks Mardi Gras Party was launched in 2006. The New Orleans-inspired fundraiser features more than a dozen bands and food over one day in March at the Acoustic Cafe. "BlackRock Rocks Mardi Gras" focuses on local acts, and has featured Otis and the Hurricanes, Nardy Boy, I Anbassa, Rick Reyes and The Pat Lattin Band and Mike Falzone. Other performers were Johnny Durkin, Brian Dolzani, Chris D'Angelis and Lisa Furman & the Blue Flies.
Less than an hour away from Bridgeport is "The Great Connecticut Traditional Jazz Festival" in Cromwell, Connecticut. It celebrated its 25th year in 2010. The weekend event features jazz and blues bands from around the country. Some past performers include Connecticut's own Galvanized Jazz Band and the Heartbeat Jazz Band. Performers from other parts of the country have included Cornet Chop Suey from St. Louis, Missouri; String of Pearls from New York City, the Midiri Brothers from New Jersey and Blue Street from Fresno, California. Nearby accommodations include the Four Points Sheraton, Hampton Inn Homewood Suites and Fairfield Inn.
Early Bird and VIP tickets for the "Gathering of the Vibes" are sold as early as November. When accompanied by an adult, children 12 and under are admitted for free. Reduced ticket prices are available for Bridgeport residents. Tickets are sold online from the event's website. Tickets for the "BlackRock Rocks Mardigras" may be purchased at the Acoustic Cafe beginning in February. The Great Connecticut Traditional Jazz Festival offers advanced ticket sales for single sessions, three-day passes and all-day passes. Advanced tickets may be ordered before July by phone or an order form by mail. After July, tickets are only available by phone and at the event.
