The Dogwood Festival Foundation is doing something a little different this year for the fall festival, and it’s going to be epic! Introducing the Battle for the MainStage. On Saturday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., local bands, artists and groups will battle it out on the main stage in Festival Park at 335 Ray Avenue for the title of the best and a grand prize worth bragging over.
This free family-friendly event is not only an opportunity to come out and support local artists, but also to grab some good food, a libation… or two, and shop with local vendors. Grab a blanket and someone who loves music and enjoy the soundtrack of the musicians that keep this city moving and grooving.
A full day of music and fun, Battle for the MainStage is going to be an incredible opportunity to come out and support the artists you know and maybe become a new fan of a new band in the process. Competitors will perform 10-15 minute sets, bringing their best songs and riffs to the stage for not only the audience but a panel of judges. In the spirit of fair competition, the identities of the judges will be kept secret until the event starts.
The stakes are high for those competing. First place receives a $1000 cash prize and the opportunity to perform on the Main Stage at the 45th annual Fayetteville Dogwood Festival. Second place comes with a $500 cash prize and third place is $250.
Hosting this year’s event is the fantastic and charismatic Johnny Awesome, a downtown fixture and master of the mic and the owner of Awesome Tattoos on Hay Street. Anyone who has been to a Johnny-hosted event knows that there will be plenty of fun and maybe a few surprises before the end of the night.
Fayetteville and Cumberland County are a hub for creatives, especially in music. In recent years, there haven’t been many venues solely dedicated to highlighting the local talent. The Dogwood Festival Foundation proudly supports the local artists that live, create and perform in the city, a driving force behind the organizing of the Battle for the MainStage.
“With an incredible lineup of artists, live performances throughout the day, and a crowd helping bring the energy, Battle for the MainStage is all about discovering new talent, supporting musicians, and giving rising artists a platform to be heard,” Kaylynn Suarez, Executive Director of the Dogwood Festival Foundation, explained. “One stage for the community! One chance to earn a spot on the MainStage. We are incredibly thankful for all the bands who signed up to compete and those who are working to make this event happen. We couldn’t do it without you and we are thrilled to put this on for our community.”
Organizers want to remind guests that Festival Park has a clear bag policy and restricted items. For more information on the park rules and regulations visit, https://www.fayettevillenc.gov/Parks-and-Recreation/Attractions-Upcoming-Events/Parks-Rec-Special-Events/Festival-Park-Clear-Bag-Policy.