As enjoyment seekers pulled into the Park at River Walk April 27 and 28, music could be heard rockin’ the sunset atmosphere.
The music poured from one of many bands there to commemorate Bakersfield: Bit of Bakersfield Festival.
The second annual Bit of Bakersfield Festival, which was held at the Brighthouse Network Amphitheatre at the Park at River Walk, was free for anyone seeking cheap entertainment and escape from the mundane.
Though it was a little bit of a walk from the designated parking area, families packed their radio flyer wagons, strollers, and beach loungers to witness Del Mar Deluxe, Stampede, Whiskey Galore, and Fat Katt and The VonZippers, rock the amphitheatre.
Bakersfield natives Del Mar Deluxe began the music series with classics from the rock ‘n’ roll and blues genres. Del Mar Deluxe’s generation mix included famous hits by Janis Joplin and Melissa Etheridge.
However, Stampede slammed us with nostalgia. This country band hit it home with a Buck Owens favorite, “Streets of Bakersfield.”
The English Beat with Mind, Body, and Soul played Saturday night, winding up the festival.
There was also a place for children to enjoy their day in “A Little Bit of Bakersfield.”
Parents could admire the Artisan’s Fair or the historical display area while the children played.
Family entertainment, however, was only available from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Festival goers could then pick up strawberry daiquiris, beer at the Beer Garden, or shaved ice while they waited for the bands to begin. A hot dog booth was also available for the famished.
However, to some, the festival was a great excuse to throw family barbecues and wade in the water.
The first annual festival opened up the Park at River Walk, and the second annual festival kept up the tradition of the free entertainment available in Bakersfield.