News release from Gathering of the Vibes:
The Gathering of the Vibes and the City of Bridgeport have confirmed an agreement to hold the annual music, camping, and arts festival at Seaside Park for five more years, through 2017. The 18th Gathering of the Vibes will return to the shores of the Long Island Sound July 25-28, 2013. Plans are already in motion for making next summer’s festival an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Just in time for holiday stocking stuffers, tickets for the 18th Annual Gathering of the Vibes go on sale today at 10:00 a.m. EST. Visit govibes.com for details.
Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch commented, “The Gathering of the Vibes is an exceptional addition to Bridgeport’s blossoming arts and entertainment scene. We’re excited to continue developing Bridgeport’s relationship with Vibes for another five years and look forward to the tremendous opportunity to showcase the Park City to thousands of out-of-town guests from throughout the country.”
Gathering of the Vibes executive director, Ken Hays added, “I am grateful to Mayor Finch and the entire City of Bridgeport for all their support over the years. This agreement solidifies the genuine relationship between the Vibes and this city; and epitomizes the original vision of legendary Bridgeport resident and circus impresario, P.T. Barnum, who donated the park land for all who wanted to hear music.”
Founded in 1996, Gathering of the Vibes’ rich music history includes performances by both legends and rising stars including: Crosby, Stills & Nash, all living members of the Grateful Dead, Allman Brothers Band, James Brown, Elvis Costello, Primus, Derek Trucks, Jane’s Addiction, and hundreds more.
Over the past seventeen years, the Vibes has returned to the picturesque, coastal Connecticut park eight times, more than any other venue. Some younger fans may even consider the festival to be synonymous with the park’s beaches and waterfront. The Vibes’ main stage is so close to the Long Island Sound, attendees can walk from the concert field and into the waterfront to chill out during their favorite bands.
The fondness between Gathering of the Vibes and Bridgeport runs deeper than aesthetics. Festival organizers have joined together with Bridgeport non-profits to effect positive change within the community. Attendees can volunteer to cleanup area beaches, or help facilitate the collection of non-perishable food items, personal hygiene products, and new or gently used clothing items that people bring to the festival’s annual drive. Last year’s concert goers gathered 12,516 lbs. of combined donations. 100% of those goods and supplies were distributed to local shelters including: the Connecticut Food Bank, Bridgeport Rescue Mission, and the Center for Women and Families. The goal for 2013 is no less than 15,000 lbs!
