A five-decade Somerset tradition marches on this week with the return of its annual Musictown Festival – but this time with a little less marching.
Now in its 53rd year, the festival highlights the town’s rich musical roots with a multi-day celebration showcasing local talent and promoting Somerset schools’ music programs.
Musictown, organized by the nonprofit Somerset Friends of Music, is marked by key events each year, such as a ball with a crowning of the Musictown Royal Court, a concert night, a kids' day, and parade.
This year’s festival will be stepping off without its signature parade, but the beat goes on with other noteworthy events to look forward to.
Festivities kick off Thursday, Oct. 15, with the Musictown Ball featuring dinner, dancing, performances by the Somerset Berkley Regional High School Show Choir and Blue Raider Marching Band and the main event: the crowning of the members of the 53rd Musictown Royal Court.
New this year, the musical monarchy is growing with the addition of a Junior Musictown Court of middle schoolers.
Musictown Ball will be held at White's of Westport from 5 to 10 p.m. Tickets are available at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/53rd-musictown-ball.
Musictown Family Fun Day, previously known as Kiddies Day, descends on Somerset Berkley Regional High School on Saturday, Oct. 17, with more activities and more ways to introduce kids to music.
The event, taking place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., will feature performances by the SBRHS marching band and show choir, the Somerset Middle School show choir, a performing arts showcase, food trucks, crafts and more.
Become an honorary member of the Blue Raider Marching Band, as they invite festival-goers to march with them, or learn to twirl flags with the Color Guard or try your hand at a percussion instrument. Guests can also get a first-hand feel for playing at the “instrument petting zoo.”
For a schedule of Family Fun Day events, visit the Somerset Friends of Music Facebook page.
Music town will culminate later this month with its Musictown Concert on Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Dr. Robert Perry Performing Arts Center in Somerset Berkley Regional High School.
See more at heraldnews.com.
