Things to Do In Gloucester: Blues Fest 2015

If you're a fan of blues music, take notice - the fourth annual Gloucester Blues Festival is taking place on Saturday, August 8. A regional celebration of all thing blues sponsored by the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, this all-day concert takes place at Stage Fort Park - rain or shine - and is a family-friendly event. There will be local food, beer and wine, and craft vendors on site at the event.

2015's lineup looks promising, with seven different artists/bands on the roster - the opening act begins promptly at 11 AM, so don't miss out! Take a look at this year's acts:

Juke Joint Five: described as "down home, old school, no-nonsense, house-rocking, kickass electric blues", this Boston-based quintet has a high-energy stage presence led by vocalist Gretchen Bostom. They formed five years ago and regularly visit Clarksdale, Mississippi to play with local Blues musicians.

Alexis P Suter: Once opening for B.B. King at BB Kings NYC, when the master himself first heard Alexis P. Suter sing, he was visibly impressed, and later remarked: "It's a rare thing to share the stage with great talent like that young lady." Alexis is nominated for The Koko Taylor Award at the upcoming 36th Annual Blues Music Awards, and was nominated for Best Soul Blues Female Artist at the 33rd Annual BMA's!

Albert Castiglia: Named "Best Blues Guitarist" by Miami New Times, Albert Castiglia has recently released his album "SOLID GROUND." "I put more time, love, blood, sweat and tears into this recording than any of the others. I love every song on it and the result is a musical variety that I hope touches something in everyone," the songwriter said about his effort. He is known to be an "energetic powerhouse" on stage, and shouldn't be missed.

Mitch Woods: Self-described as "rock-a-boogie" and inspired by great jump n' boogie outfits of the late 40s and early 50s, Mitch Woods and His Rocket 88s have been on the scene for over three decades.

Joanna Connor: Back in 1985, Joanna Connor hopped on a Greyhound bus from her hometown of Worcester to join the Chicago blues scene. She has a long history of powerful records and live appearances, and has appeared with Los Lobos, Robert Cray, Buddy Guy, Kenny Wayne Sheppard, John Mayall, ZZ Top, Joe Cocker, Extreme,Luther Allison, BB King, Etta James,Susan Tedeschi, Koko Taylor, and Jimmy Page.

Lil Ed and the Blues Imperials: known as one of the "premier party bands to come out of Chicago during the 80's", Lil' Ed and the Blues Imperials have been playing since the mid 1970's. They have released several records, including 1989's "Chicken, Gravy & Biscuits".

Sugar Blue: Grammy-winning harmonica genius Sugar Blue has performed and recorded with many top artists, and his harmonica is heard on the Rolling Stones' "Miss You". He began as a New York City street musician and worked his way up in the Blues world.

Tickets are available for $28 in advance at Eventbrite until August 3. There are also special VIP reserved center stage seats available for purchase at $50. On the day of the show, admission is $40, with a special $5 ticket for children ages 6 to 12 (children 5 and under are free). There are no pets, coolers, glass, alcoholic beverages (they are, however, sold on site), beach balls or frisbees, sun umbrellas, tents, or canopies allowed inside. The gates open promptly at 9 AM.