Nonprofit Musicians on a Mission is committed to making a difference with its music.
Besides the gorgeous weather, fall brings a multitude of local events worth attending, with musical acts, artisans and food vendors. Local Joan features three outstanding events here, all in scenic outdoor locations and benefiting local causes and small businesses.
Colts Neck Rockfest 2014 is back for its 7th year on September 20. This free concert featuring area bands with talented local musicians is held at Bucks Mill Park on Bucks Mill Road in Colts Neck and is sponsored this year by the Colts Neck Business Association.
The all day event runs from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Event founder and musician Steve Warendorf started Rockfest in 2008. “I had the idea to have a little free concert with a few musical acts,” said Warendorf. “It was basically a backyard barbecue held at the park. There were probably 30 people.”
Today Rockfest has musical acts ranging from reggae to Latin to classic rock to original music. Hand crafted goods and services will be on sale, and food vendors will participate.
Guitarist for the Moroccan Sheepherders, as well as Carnival Dogs, The Working Men – a Rush Tribute Band, and the SMA Project, Warendorf enjoys giving young musicians a chance for local exposure. “With Rockfest, just being able to break even and be able to put smiles on people’s faces, musicians and eventgoers alike is great. The young bands have a great place to bring their friends and families to see them play.” Warendorf and his wife Michelle grew up in Colts Neck and he calls himself a “townie.” His daughter Madeleine, 15, will also be playing at Rockfest with her group, “Three Little Birds.”
Rockfest is at Bucks Mill Park in Colts Neck.
“It’s a no-brainer having Rockfest in Colts Neck,” he adds. “It’s a beautiful park with grills and a perfect space for the bands to play.”
Next, the Asbury Park Fall Bazaar is an afternoon event to showcase greater Asbury Park’s local artisans and vendors on Saturday, September 27, 2014 from noon to 5 pm at the Grand Arcade inside Convention Hall. For sale will be vintage, handmade items, art, jewelry, home goods and seasonal and Oktoberfest style beers and food at The Anchors Bend.
Musicians and local crafters join forces on Sept. 27 at the Asbury Park boardwalk.
This year Indian Summer: Live Music on the Beach joins with the Bazaar to offer a celebration of local music on the beach outside of Anchors Bend. Arcade Radio will serve as the official headquarters for the event with interviews, guest DJ spots, and band merch.
Finally, check out Rock the Farm: Amplify Your Life, at Regan’s Hollow Farm in Farmingdale on Saturday, October 11, from 2 to 11pm. Bands include The Thousand Pities and Harper’s Fellow.
An admission fee of $15 goes to raise funds for CFC Loud N Clear, a Farmingdale charity that helps people in recovery re-integrate into society, closing the gap between rehab and everyday life.
Hosted by Musicians on a Mission, a group of civic-minded musicians who organize and provide entertainment for monthly events, this outdoor musical festival features food, drinks, vendors, volleyball, horseshoes, song circles, an auction and a bonfire. BYOB.
Don’t be a sofa spud this September. Get out and support our local musicians, charities, vendors and craftspeople by attending at least one of these wonderful events, staffed by volunteers who donate their time and talents to help our local community.