WRSU had a rocking set of performers a little off the beaten path. Well, that is to say they were a few blocks up Main Street in a park gazebo. Having it placed even just this short distance away sheltered it from the quieter moments down the road. Families lazed in the sun or played softball while some of the loudest bands of the fest echoed across the grass and off the distant porta johns and houses.
The small size of the town center came in handy as I strolled back and forth and back again checking out the sights and sounds. I eventually grew hungry and spotted this small, somewhat empty sandwich shop called Gill & Gallagher’s. It looked just laidback enough for my mood. I walked in and was a bit overwhelmed by the massive chalkboard menu of specialty sandwiches.
I asked the guy behind the counter, “What would you recommend to someone who’s never eaten here before.” He told me about the Grilled Vodka sandwich (chicken, melted mozzarella and vodka sauce on a baguette) and I got a root beer, sans ice. It seems they were out of ice on this day. I teased them that they must have forgotten the recipe for ice among all of these fancy sandwiches. We had a good laugh and the sandwich was delicious. But I do believe I ordered the last of their chicken for the day. Sorry folks.
I sat quietly outside and enjoyed my lunch before walking Main Street once more. The kitsch and crafts drew tons of people thru the course of the day and the music added a bounce to their step. I’m glad to have spent even just a few hours among the baby strollers and smiling faces. It’s days like today that prove a festival does not have to be rowdy to be fun. Spending a summer day snapping pictures of a quaint town while music follows you can be enough of a party.
This is only the second year of the Black River Music and Art Fest and judging from the turnout, it should go on for many years to come. Check out more about Black River Music and Art Fest, the town Chester and the bands on their website.
See Also:
Photo Gallery
Black River Music and Art Fest
Bands & Musicians that Played
