The smell of patchouli oil, burning incense, pot, and perspiration filled the air this weekend behind the Provolt Store, summoning hundreds of hippies both young and old to the grounds for the 7th Annual Apple Jam from Friday to Sunday.
“It’s like a big family,” said one festival goer, “the music is fun and brings such a great vibe.”
The field was transformed into a colorful sea of Volkswagen bugs, tents, and tapestries, with crowds wearing tie dye t-shirts and maxi skirts filtering through the main gates to enjoy the music and the unique selection of vendors and food. Even the Provolt Store seemed transformed, with bikes, strollers, and flags strewn out front, as festival goers and locals brought their business thru the squeaking front door.
The party started for the early birds on Friday afternoon, gaining momentum on Saturday with local musical favorites including Ras Cricket and The Cultivators and Frankie Hernandez with The Old Soul Parade playing in The Moon Barn, along with live glass blowing and kids activities. The music continued into the night with the sounds of 100 Watt Mind and the Polyrhythmics, echoing off the surrounding landscape until after 2a.m.
As campers woke to the final day of the festival early Sunday afternoon, the grounds began to transform back into their original state. Tents and tapestries were folded and bagged, along with stray beer bottles and trash. Trailers, trucks, and cars packed to various degrees filed out and onto Williams Highway while the festival came to a close.
For anyone who hasn’t had a chance to enjoy this year’s festival season yet, there are plenty up and coming within driving distance!
Sasquatch Music Festival – Memorial Day weekend, at the Gorge in Washington State, with Odesza, Modest Mouse, Glass Animals, and Spoon.
Reggae in the Hills – Angel’s Camp, CA. June 12th-14th with Ky-Mani Marley, Don Carlos, and local favorite, Indubious!
Sierra Nevada World Music Festival – Booneville, CA. June 19th-21st with Thievery Corporation and Steel Pulse.
Oroville Rock Reggae Jamfest– Oroville, CA. July 17th-9th with Stephen Marley, Capelton, Luciano, and Jo Mersa Marley.
Northwest World Reggae Festival – Scio, Oregon. July 24th – 26th
31st Annual Reggae on the River – Humboldt County, French’s Camp, CA. July 30th – August 2nd with Stick Figure, Stephen Marley, Alborosie, and Fortunate Youth.
(more info on www.regaefestivalguide.com)
