Thirsty for Charity
By Alberto Muro
Returning for its 16th year at the Kern County Museum, Village Fest once again returns to quench the thirst of its patrons all in the name of charity.
Salty’s BBQ
During the month of September, an estimated 4,000 attendees came together and sampled the taste of California breweries and the majestic food provided by the local restaurants. Founder Raul Peace has changed the face of local festivals dedicated to glorious beverages; as locations changed and names transitioned so has the reputation of the festival; as the turn-out demonstrates, it is an undeniable success.
Roast Pig
The Kern County Museum gives patrons the “out of town” experience as it is transformed into 16 acres of fun, great music, and interesting people. Lengthwise employee and volunteer Dustin describes the event as “a wonderful opportunity for us to help with great charities for the community since village fest contributes to multiple charities that benefit the children.” Aside from their drink selection, Lengthwise also provided their delicious foods such as macaroni and cheese, French fries with garlic spread (known as stinky fries), and their annual roasted pig.
Volunteers work at the Fest
Aside from restaurant owners, the volunteers also consisted of local fans showing their appreciation towards the charitable event. Currently, in his 6th year volunteering, Jesse D. volunteered with his 2 daughters and 1 son; without a doubt, he is taking proper safety measures to ensure that people do not get out of line. When asked what can people expect out of the Village Fest experience, he responded, “Normally, people tend to take it for what it is and get drunk and party, but over the years, I begun to notice the people are becoming more appreciative towards the charitable factor that lies within the event.” Jesse, along with the other volunteers are there to ensure that everyone at Village Fest is safe and responsible by providing information booths and free water bottles . The warm weather provided some discomfort, but the incoming clouds were sufficient enough to cool down patrons and their attitudes, so there were no bad vibes from anyone waiting to enter the venue.
Local bands provided some great tunes for those who wanted to dance or simply rock out. I spoke with the guitarist of the local band “The Aviators” to get his input on the festival itself. One important question I asked William about his views on the charitable factor of the event while packing his guitar he said, “It’s great to see people come out and enjoy great music while enjoying their beverages. Since it’s for a charitable cause, it’s also an honor to be playing our music on behalf of an organization that is all about giving.” Local acts came from all over Bakersfield to spread their tunes and dedicate their time to those attending Village Fest.
The Aviators
As a native of Bakersfield, one would have expectations towards Village Fest to accommodate the locals, but what people don’t know is that through out California people flock from all over the state to partake in the glorious festivities. A visitor from Orange County by the name of Kayla drove with her siblings to attend Village fest, and as a first time visitor she gave a positive description about Village Fest “This was my first year but I definitely plan on going again.There was Plenty to choose from and the lines moved pretty quick so that was cool. The cost was decent for everything you’re getting and the live music was fun”. Kayla was also not hesitant to show her support in the acts of charity that Village Fest brought under the name of diversity, “As long as it’s going to a good cause then it’s an astounding feeling to be spending time with friends and family”. with that said, Village fest succeeds in not only bringing a town together, but showing California that acts of charity come from small towns with big hearts. As another Village Fest concludes, it should come to no surprise if your neighbor decides to go next year because not only is it a fantastic social gathering, but also unites a community under one ideology; to give back to the community that loves you.
Village Fest