Jerome’s Exciting Music and Arts Festival Returns on Sept. 14-15!

The Jerome Chamber of Commerce is set to host the second Jerome Music & Arts Festival this weekend, September 14 and 15. Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, which attracted around 10,000 visitors, this year’s festival promises an expanded lineup featuring more visual artists and 40 musical acts across ten venues throughout the town.

Chamber director Tom Pitts highlighted Jerome’s historical significance as a tourism hotspot in northern Arizona. “For years, we were the number three destination in northern Arizona for tourism: Grand Canyon, Sedona, us,” he remarked. With music spread over two days and ten locations, local merchants anticipate a positive economic impact.

Entry to the festival is free, though a $10 admission fee applies for access to the main stage area. Activities begin each day at 11 a.m., with programming running until 10 p.m. on Saturday and 7 p.m. on Sunday. A new tent near the basketball courts will feature a main stage for headlining bands and an Acoustic Lounge Stage for solo artists, accompanied by comfortable seating and a bar serving local Arizona wines and beers.

Local band Black Lemon expressed excitement about the festival’s diverse offerings. “We got to play right after the Naughty Bits last year, and it was amazing,” lead singer Destiny Diaz shared. The festival will also include painting demonstrations from 17 artists in Upper Park, complemented by live music and children’s activities like face painting.

This year sees a notable increase in artistic representation. “The first time we did the festival, we didn’t do much in the way of art,” Pitts explained, eager to showcase artists working in a variety of mediums including watercolors and acrylics.

Musical acts will range from acoustic performances to rock and jazz, providing a significant variety for attendees. Francine Bop, from the band Bombed Out Cat, noted the festival’s unique appeal. “This will be our second year doing the festival, and it sounds like it’s going to be more fun this year.”

Bombed Out Cat emphasizes improvisation in their performances, drawing on their previous experience as an improv jam band in the Verde Valley. Rhythm guitarist Steve Estes from Thunder & Lightnin’ promises an engaging show centered on energetic performances and harmonious arrangements.

Last year’s festival received positive feedback, leading to improvements in planning and execution for this year. Pitts assured potential attendees of an enjoyable experience, blending music and art in a picturesque historical setting.

For convenience, attendees are encouraged to carpool, with free shuttle service available to parking lots at Old Jerome High School and above the fire station. For further details, visitors can check out JeromeMusicAndArts.com.