by erin thursby scopes1925@msn.com
WHAT: Spring Music Festival
WHEN: May 26th gates open at 6pm
WHERE: Metropolitan Park
If you’re mostly familiar with Jim Belushi because of his TV sitcom According to Jim, it might be time to head on down to Metropolitan Park this weekend to listen to some of his blues stylings, via The Sacred Hearts Band.
After Dan Aykroyd asked Jim to be part of the Blues Brothers, Jim prepared by crashing rehearsals of the house band (The Sacred Hearts) at the House of Blues. Jamming was so much fun that Jim joined up with the band. For the past seven years they’ve been billed as Jim Belushi and the Sacred Hearts Band.
Belushi is a wild and crazy consummate performer who has worked as an actor, comedian and now, as a singer. First and foremost, he’s an entertainer, so Jacksonville’s sure to get a great show! Make sure to keep your eyes on the stage, as Belushi is fond of working a back flip into every show.
Jim Belushi and The Sacred Hearts Band have played for many politicos (including former presidents), but the Rhythm and Blues band regularly performs for those not on the White House guest list. They play all the House of Blues venues in addition to various benefits and corporate events.
Mayor John Peyton and the City of Jacksonville welcomes Jim Belushi and The Sacred Hearts Band to the annual event.
“The Spring Music Festival offers another way to celebrate the Memorial Day weekend in one of our premier parks downtown,” said Mayor John Peyton. “We are excited to host Jim Belushi and look forward to providing a wonderful event for individuals and families to enjoy.”
Following this very entertaining performance, music will meet movies when Belushi’s voice will be heard as the Woodsman in the animated feature presentation of Hoodwinked. Slated as the real story of red riding hood, Hoodwinked will start around 9 pm. and will be shown on a large screen within the park.
The opening act for the event will be Rheem’s Singin’ in the Shower Contest, slated to run from 6:30 - 7:30 pm. This light-hearted competition will feature Jacksonville celebrities singing to win the coveted showerhead trophy for the best in-the-shower singer. Rheem Tankless will provide the shower with running water on the stage.
Gates for the Spring Music Festival will open at 6 pm. Admission is free and the park tends to fill up fast, so do come early, if possible. Officials must close the gates once they reach capacity. Food and beverages will be available for purchase inside Metropolitan Park and no outside food or beverages will be allowed into the park. Other prohibited items include: bags, backpacks or fanny packs larger than 8 ½” x 11”, coolers, picnic baskets, still or video cameras of any kind, roller skates or roller blades, bicycles, pets, or umbrellas. Blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged for general seating. Strollers, diaper bags, and chairs “in a bag” will be permitted, but are subject to search.
The Spring Music Festival is produced by the City of Jacksonville Office of Special Events and sponsored by The Eagle 96.9 FM, Speedstick, Tijuana Flats, Miller Lite, Coca Cola, and Ocean Waves. Visit coj.net or call (904) 630-3690 for more info.
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