Music, art to fill up downtown for festival
By ASHLEY McCORMICK
BGNN contributor
BARBERTON Normally in summer, pollen is bustling in the streets of downtown.
On June 8, the pollen isn’t going to be the only one bustling about.
Head to downtown Barberton on June 8 for the first Magic City Arts & Music Festival from 12-7 p.m.
With over 30 artists and performers, there is something for everyone. The more you explore downtown, the more one-of-a-kind art and music you’ll find.
“Hopefully there’s a decent crowd running around,” said Mike Bailey, a member of the headliner band 12 Gauge Suede.
12 Gauge Suede is an Americana, country rock cover band that got its start in Green. The band consists of Mike Bailey, rhythm guitar and singer; Zach Miller, rhythm guitar and singer; Dave Walden, lead guitar and singer; Rich Shilts, bass guitar; and Jarrod Bolon, drummer.
Ignite Brewing Company was the first place to give them a chance to perform — the band returns there at 7 p.m. What
keeps the band playing is how it brings people together.
“It’s just fun to get all of our friends, fans, and families together to come and hang out,” Bailey said.
The Vain/Kash Duo, an old school rock & roll band, is the opener. While 12 Gauge Suede is a cover band, they plan on
playing one of their original songs, “One Step Forward,” at the festival. When you attend a 12 Gauge Suede show, you’re not leaving empty handed. Bailey and Bolon guarantee that you’ll be leaving with some 12 Gauge Suede koozies. You can find both 12 Gauge Suede and The Vain/Kash Duo on Facebook, and 12 Gauge Suede can be followed on Instagram.
The festival wouldn’t be possible without Main Street Barberton putting it together. MSB is “dedicated to revitalizing
the downtown area through economic development initiatives, beautification of our downtown and aiming to create
a special and fun experience for both Barberton residents and visitors,” according to MSB Executive Director Melanie
Black Amato.
For the 21 and older crowd, the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) will be in effect. DORA allows people to walk around specific areas with an alcoholic drink. For families and younger visitors, a Kid Zone has family- friendly activities. As you walk around, prepare to be tempted by several food and dessert trucks. These include baked potatoes, pizza, ice cream and more.
Stop by The Barberton Gazette & Norton News booth for a chance to win an exclusive T-shirt. For entry into the contest, take a photo at the booth and post to Facebook or Instagram using hashtag #BarbertonGazetteNortonNewsRocks. Participants must be 18 years or older.
Black Amato added that the festival will be an annual event designed to bring together the community and visitors from other areas of Northeast Ohio. Main Street Barberton has one staff member, and relies on volunteers to help plan and run events. Anyone who would like to help may email [email protected].
Keep the provided map handy to plan your day. The map and more information is also available at Magic City Art and Music Festival (MSB) – Mainstreet Barberton
