Casey Jones Blues Fest Ushers in Springtime in Water Valley
Water Valley is ready to entertain music and outdoor lovers alike with the first Casey Jones Blues Festival, organized by the Water Valley Main Street Association. The festival is promising a day filled with live music, a stunning array of arts, crafts, food, and plenty of outdoor activities, all set in the historic heart of Water Valley.
The event is a free daytime celebration taking place throughout the downtown area, including live performances on the Solero Stage on Main St., the area known for its historic Casey Jones Railroad Museum. The museum has significant ties to classic blues, having been named after an individual who featured in numerous blues songs.
Blues in The Air, Joy Everywhere
Music lovers can look forward to an exceptional lineup that proudly flaunts the talent of Mississippi. Performers include Effie Burt, The Harrell Brothers, Libby Rae Watson, Garry Burnside, and headliner Mr. Sipp. Mr. Sipp, a 2024 Grammy Awards nominee, adds an extra layer of anticipation and excitement. He has been nominated in the “Best Traditional Blues Album” category for this year’s Grammy Awards. The festival begins at 11 a.m. with the Water Valley High School band offering a performance piece specially prepared for this event. The live music will continue to vibrate through the afternoon and conclude with Mr. Sipp’s performance from 5 to 6:30 p.m.
More Than Just Music
The Casey Jones Blues Fest is not just about music. The association has planned various related events starting as early as 8:00 a.m., which includes a 5K Run/Walk. Notable attractions include a car show themed “Rally at the Rails,” a cornhole tournament, and a unique Kid’s Zone. The festive spirit will spread across the town with local businesses, including new restaurants, retailers, and galleries, hosting guests during the festival.
New Beginnings
“In the last couple of years since the pandemic, we’ve been focusing on revitalizing downtown,” explained Alyssa Benedict, the Executive Director of the association. She further emphasized the festival’s role in showcasing Water Valley’s emerging businesses and the growth that has happened in recent years.
The festival kick-off will take place at the “Water Valley Wine Down,” a wine-tasting cum shopping event. The Casey Jones Blues Fest and other upcoming events are showing promise in fortifying a healthy uptick in live music and community engagement in Water Valley.
For more information, prospective guests can visit the official Casey Jones Blues Fest webpage through the Main Street Water Valley website.
