The Blues BBQ Festival made a triumphant return to Hudson River Park for its 26th year on August 15, featuring a headlining performance by Grammy-award-winning blues legend Bobby Rush. The event, held from 1 to 9 p.m. and free to the public, attracted music lovers eager for a day of soulful tunes and delicious barbecue.
Festival Details:
- Location: Hudson River Park Pier 76
- History: Established in 2000, it is NYC’s longest-running free blues festival.
- Participants: A variety of local restaurants offered delectable dishes, with participants including Bark BBQ, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, and Jase’s BBQ, along with dessert options from Fan Fan Doughnuts and La Newyorkina.
Highlights:
- Performers: Acts like Radam Schwartz, Howlin’ Hurd, Bywater Call, and Sugaray Rayford energized the crowd leading up to Rush’s performance.
- Atmosphere: The festival featured a lively environment, with local attendees enjoying family-friendly games and dance areas.
Bobby Rush’s Performance:
The energetic 92-year-old artist thrilled the audience, emphasizing his passion for music and commitment to sharing the blues with younger generations. He reflected on the significance of his role in introducing blues to new listeners.
The festival, which continues to grow in popularity each year, is a staple event for the community, celebrating the vibrant culture of blues music and the culinary delights of barbecue. It is held annually on the second Saturday of August, marking it as Hudson River Park’s largest event.
