PENSACOLA -- Florida SpringFest, a multicultural musical
celebration and one of this city's major tourist draws, will mark
its 10th anniversary May 19 to 21. The outdoor event, which fills
up area hotel rooms, is held downtown near City Hall, rain or
shine.
The headline entertainers for the spring event are in the
process of being selected from the worlds of rock, country, jazz,
blues, folk, pop, zydeco, reggae and other types of music.
Last May's lineup included Aaron Tippin; Blood, Sweat and Tears;
Bruce Hornsby; Collective Soul; Cracker; Duncan Sheik; Eddie Money;
the Grass Roots; Hootie and the Blowfish; Joan Jett; Lee Ann
Womack, and Morris Day and the Time.
Bill Garlock, the festival's executive director, said Florida
SpringFest 2000 could draw as many as 105,000 patrons. This year's
festival drew 103,000 people.
Agents and tour operators should block hotel rooms and bleacher
seats as soon as possible, Garlock advised. Group rates for 30 or
more people are available, he said.
The initial 1991 event was held as a fund raiser for the
Alzheimer's Association. SpringFest continues as a charitable event
with profits going to selected local charities.
There are four headline entertainment stages; each one offers
some 5,000 bleacher seats, Garlock said. In addition, there are
children's activities and entertainment and a SportScene area where
festival-goers will have an opportunity to meet celebrities.
The cost of single-day tickets for attendees ages 12 and older
is $17; three-day tickets cost $25. Groups pay $15 and $21,
respectively. Bus parking is available near the site. Children ages
11 and younger are admitted free if accompanied by an adult; those
unaccompanied pay $12.
There are a limited number of VIP tickets (not discountable)
priced at $80, single, or $150 per couple. These include three-day
passes, preferred seating, close-in parking, beer, wine and soft
drinks.
Agents may purchase tickets in bulk for resale to clients at
face value, according to Garlock. Gulf Coast Ticketmaster outlets
also are selling tickets.
Florida SpringFest 2000
Phone: (850) 469-1069
Address: 226 S. Palafox, Seville Tower, Suite 205, Pensacola, Fla.
32501