The 10th edition of the festival — delayed for two years — finally descended on Circle Pines Center south of Grand Rapids Friday with performances on five stages and much more. Recap, photos.
Perfect Opening Day: Via Mardot on stage at Buttermilk Jamboree on Friday. (Photo/Holly Holtzclaw)
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The weather couldn’t have been better at Circle Pines Center in Delton on Friday for the 10th Buttermilk Jamboree — with the sun shining on festivalgoers as they danced, sang, ate and drank in celebration of the beloved event that’s been on hiatus since 2019.
“The Buttermilk Jamboree is a special place,” said singer-songwriter Chris Michel, who performed an array of jazzy originals via acoustic guitar and looper pedal on the Broonzy Stage, then later picked up a bass to join Dede & The Dreamers on the Beer Tent Stage.
“I’ve had the opportunity to play here before for different songwriting retreats and we always have a good time performing.”
The same attitude was expressed by fans in the audience, including Jerry Cords from Indiana.
New Orleans Vibe: Great Lakes Brass on their way to the stage. (Photo/Holly Holtzclaw)
“This is my third time here and I really like the eclectic style of music and how family friendly everything is for the kids,” he said.
That eclectic style was on display throughout the opening evening, even with Great Lakes Brass stepping in for The Strapping Owls at the last minute in the Beer Tent.
“We’re trying to pay homage to the New Orleans funeral march and do it as much justice as a bunch of kids from the Midwest can,” said Kalamazoo saxophonist Jarad Selner, aka Saxsquatch.
As a result, the band began its set off-stage and marched to the Beer Tent with its New Orleans second-line music for the group’s first-ever Buttermilk Jamboree appearance.
FlyLiteGemini, meanwhile, played at the Orchard Stage as the sun set and the heat subsided. The four-piece band played alternative folk-rock with a bluesy twist, their energetic stage presence getting folks out of their lawn chairs and dancing.
Day 1 of Buttermilk Jamboree boasted no shortage of positive vibes. Friendly faces created a welcoming atmosphere that makes it difficult to leave.
The festival continues today and Sunday with acts including Serita’s Black Rose Duo, Funkadesi, Earth Radio and more. Buttermilk also offers artist workshops and crafts for kids.
Find the full event schedule below. Tickets can still be bought at the gate and prices can be found online here.
PHOTO GALLERY: Buttermilk Jamboree at Circle Pines Center (Friday)
Photos by Holly Holtzclaw
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