PICKENS — What do you get when you combine a fleet of classic automobiles with a night of music featuring 1960s teen idol Bobby Rydell? Answer: Blue Ridge Fest, the Upcountry’s most anticipated spring festival.
Rydell, known for such hits as “Kissin’ Time,” “Volare,” and“Wild One,” is the headline musical act of the May 11 event in Pickens, which also features one of South Carolina’s largest classic car cruise-ins. Also appearing on stage will be Jimmy Clanton, popular for ‘60s hits “Just a Dream” and “Venus in Blue Jeans.”
Between dancing the night away and feasting on everything from homemade ice cream to fresh boiled peanuts, guests can admire as many as 600 vintage rides. They can also buy raffle tickets to win their very own set of hot wheels — the top prize in this year’s drawing is a new 2011 Chevrolet Camaro. A $5,000 Cash Giveaway is the second prize.
Now in its 15th year, Blue Ridge Fest is organized as a community fundraiser by the employees of Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative and Blue Ridge Security, said Denise McCormick, customer service and marketing manager. The event raises about $150,000 annually and since 1998, has funded local charities to the tune of $1.25 million.
“Most of the charities we choose, they’re really about human need,” McCormick said. “We help thousands of people with things like rent, food, medications and utilities. The money stays in our community.”
The fun takes place from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative’s covered outdoor facility at 734 W. Main St. in Pickens. Admission is $15 in advance or $20 at the gate. Children ages 7–12 are admitted for $8 in advance or $10 at the gate, while those ages 6 or younger are admitted free. Raffle tickets are $10 each.
For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit blueridgefest.com, stop by any of our office locations or call (800) 240-3400.