It’s that time, time to celebrate Fort Collins, Colorado’s birthday and this time it’s a real doozy because this year we’re celebrating a 150th birthday. Fort Collins, you look real darn good for your age!
What: Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest
When: August 15-17, 2014
Friday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday, 11 .m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Downtown Fort Collins, Colorado
Admission: Free
What: Well, let me tell you”¦
Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest is Fort Collins’ largest party of the year, and for good reason. More than 70 Colorado bands play six stages during three days. If you love music and you love supporting local music, you won’t want to miss this festival. Come out to hear your favorite band, or discover your new favorite band. Either way, your days at Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest will be filled with music.
In addition, international headliners play the Mountain Avenue Stage all three nights. Here’s a tip from personal experience, get there early if you want a good view.
On Friday at 8:30 p.m. one of the biggest bands to come out of Colorado, Big Head Todd and the Monsters will take the Mountain Avenue Stage. On Saturday night at 8:30 p.m. it’s Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo. This concert will be insane, and I’d advise you to spend the day in Fort Collins if you want to get a good “seat” at this one. Both Big Head Todd and Benatar will be simulcast at Library Park Stage.
On Sunday, WAR will make a special return appearance to the festival stage after headlining 10 years ago at the very first Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest. WAR’s performance begins at 5:30 p.m. on the Mountain Avenue Stage and will close the festival weekend. For the full festival music lineup, visit BohemianNights.org.
In addition to all the music, vendors line the streets at Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest. There will also be lots of food and drink choices; from turkey legs to Japanese cuisine, you will find something that tickles your fancy and delights your taste buds.
Be sure to bring the kids along. It’s a wonderful opportunity to expose them to a variety of music, plus there’s Kids’ World, an area featuring activities, games, entertainment, a carnival and a Bohemian Nights Kids’ Adventure.
Tips for attending Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest:
1. This event is packed with festivalgoers, but do not let that deter you from attending. There are ways to make your experience enjoyable, even if you don’t like crowds. First, carpool or ride the MAX Bus (it’s free for the rest of the summer).
2. Also, chill out. Don’t try to see it all. Take a look at the musical lineup and pick the bands you want to see ahead of time, but leave your schedule flexible. You never know when you’ll stumble on a brand new band that catches your ear.
3. Stay hydrated and bring along sunscreen.
4. Pack some cash. Not every festival vendor accepts credit cards, even in this day and age, so it’s good to be prepared.
For more information visit DowntownFortCollins.com.
