By Casey Thompson
Muskogee’s newest festival, G Fest , returns in its second year to Hatbox Field on June 15-17, 2017, for three nights of music, camping and entertainment. The Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame (OMHOF) will host a celebratory concert and induction ceremony at Hatbox Field on June 14, 2017—preceding the music festival. The induction ceremony and concert will feature performances by many of the honored artists. The induction will be at the Hangar at Hatbox Field beginning at 7:00 p.m. The induction is a separate, ticketed event, however, all G Fest 3-day ticket holders and volunteers are invited to the after party.
Building on the success of its inaugural year in 2016, G Fest Muskogee is bringing even more music, camping and entertainment. Bands take the main stage at 3:30 p.m. with headliners going on at 10:00 p.m. each of the three evenings. Other stages throughout the venue begin as early as 1:00 p.m.
“We’re excited to share several of the artists joining us for the second annual G Fest,” said Jim Blair, executive director of the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame. “We are bringing back a lot of the atmosphere guests enjoyed from our first year, and have expanded with some new opportunities in 2017. We look forward to music fans joining us again this year.”
This year’s lineup features a variety of artists including Rock group NEEDTOBREATHE as Friday’s headliner. Other notable names include Muskogee natives and “The Voice” alums, The Swon Brothers, along with Caroline Glaser, another musician of “The Voice.” Other artists announced include: The Shakerz with Jamie Oldaker, Mike Hosty, Jambalaya Jass Band, Kinderhook, Steven Salewon, Don & Steve White, and the Red Dirt Rangers. Saturday’s festivities continue with a late-night EDM party featuring popular DJ, Candyland.
“We think music fans of all ages will be happy to see we’re bringing an eclectic mix of country, bluegrass, folk, rock and even EDM to year two of the festival,” said Jim.
General Admission tickets are available for $89. VIP Reserved Seating and VIP Party Pit tickets are $299. VIP Reserved Seating and VIP Party Pit gives ticket-holders access to exclusive areas to the sides and directly in front of the stage, parking, designated bathrooms and a separate bar. For fans wanting the true G Fest experience, primitive camping is available starting at $80 and RV camping starting at $325. Tickets are on sale now.
G Fest is funded through a joint effort by the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame (OMHOF), The City of Muskogee, City of Muskogee Foundation and Muskogee Tourism. Net proceeds of the event will be used to further the mission of the OMHOF and further develop the infrastructure of the Hatbox complex for future festivals.
