Greencastle Music Fest slated to rock this weekend

For years, downtown Greencastle has been the spot in August for musical acts to come and entertain.

That continues August 22-23, as Greencastle Music Fest celebrates its another year with Gail Smith leading the event.

"I started it back in 2010 just to have something to have something downtown and to help bring people downtown. At that time, most people would go to Plainfield or Avon, and it was time we put together something. It was on a much smaller scale, but we wanted to have fun downtown and help the businesses around. Out of that, it has evolved into what we now see as a really cool event that draws people from all over," Smith told The Putnam County Post.

Smith said how big the event has become surprises her.

"I never would've guessed in the beginning it would reach the levels it has now. It is amazing. The hotels and bed and breakfasts are busy, all the restaurants will be busy, people drive here, get gas here and it really helps our community in many different ways. Not only that, but it gives us a lot of great entertainment," Smith added.

Greencastle Music Fest has been recognized by the Indiana Tourism Association as the Best Event/Festival in Indiana. 

The action begins Friday night with Country Summer playing from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., followed by Chris Ferrara. 

"Country Summer is a really popular country band that plays the latest songs, and they have a lot of energy. I am really excited to have Chris Ferrara and the Common Good back from Nashville, Tennessee. If you haven't seen them, you need to come and see them. They have a cool horn section, they get off the stage, they dance and to have them come to Greencastle is really cool. Last year when they were here, they loved Greencastle and thought everyone was nice," Smith said.

On Saturday, Sugar Street featuring Richard Goodall, who won America's Got Talent, will be performing. Following them will be the Woomblies and The Crashers will be wrapping up the event.

"I am sure everyone knows about Richard, and he has a great story. The Woomblies are a rock orchestra band. If you've never heard them, they will give you goosebumps. The Crashers are celebrating 10 years playing at the Greencastle Music Fest. They helped me build this, and they always put on a great show. The Crashers have become family and they like to see things grow in our community," Smith said, adding that the idea of the Shamrock 5K originated from the group's leading singer. 

In addition to the music, there will be a kids area for children and a cornhole tournament on Saturday. 

Tickets to Greencastle Music Fest are still available and are $10 a day or $15 for a weekend pass and can be bought by visiting greencastlemusicfest.com. 

"This event would never happen without the generosity of so many sponsors. This is a very expensive event, and without the sponsors, none of this would happen.It feels my heart to see everyone come and have so much fun," Smith said.