Kettle Moraine Jazz Festival
Sept. 9, 2011 4:30 p.m. - Sept. 10, 2011, 11:00 p.m. at Riverside Park- 800 Kilbourn Ave., West Bend
Since its inception over a decade ago, the KMJF has attracted throngs of enthusiastic fans and an array of internationally-recognized performers to the banks of the upper Milwaukee River in West Bend.
This year's festival is expected to draw more than 5,500 jazz lovers from all over the Midwest with performances from Johannes Linstead, Eric Darius, Basia, Nabori, Steve Cole, Peter White, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and other jazz artists.
Performances take place under a spacious tent before appreciative music lovers, many of whom arrive early to stake out prime locations in the first-come, first-seated festival setup. Patrons are allowed to bring chairs and blankets, which can be placed on the outer perimeter of the rows of festival chairs beneath the tent and at the rear of the tent.
Most of the performers sign CDs after their performances. Our experts advise getting in line while they are playing their last song to avoid the line. You can bring your own CD to have autographed or purchase one for about $20.
Patrons are not allowed to carry in food or beverages, but plenty of tempting international cuisine is available on-site. In addition to music, the festival also features an arts marketplace and interactive sponsor exhibits. There is also a festival store that features logo merchandise such as polo shirts, denim shirts. T-shirts, jackets, blankets and more.
The festival runs from 4:30 to 11:30 p.m. Friday and 1 to 11:30 p.m. Saturday.
At the gate, a one-day ticket costs $75 and a two-day pass costs $125. Discounts are available for advance purchases made either by phone at (877) 271-6903 or by mail (print a ticket order form from kmjazz.com and send it with a check, mail order or credit card number to West Bend Sunrise Rotary Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 1087, West Bend, WI 53095). Tickets are also available at Zielger Company offices in Milwaukee, West Bend, Mequon or Madison.
Proceeds from the event benefit area charitable organizations through the West Bend Sunrise Rotary Foundation.
Parking is free, with lots at The Gehl Company and inside the County Grounds on Highway 33.
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