Thousands of live-music fans will be descending upon a 26-acre fairground in downtown Napa, where barn dances and garden shows are the usual attraction. Not so this weekend, as the first ever four day music, food, wine, comedy and beer festival Bottle Rock Napa, is slated to be the main attraction not only in Napa, but throughout the entire Northern California Wine Country- and for others who are coming from farther parts of the country. Over 60 bands are scheduled to perform on three expo stages May 9-12, with previews kicking off May 8, and if everything plays out to all expectations, approximately 35,000 people will be partying per day. Top wineries, the best of epicurean fare, late night after-parties, VIP events, and featured bands such as The Black Keys, Kings of Leon and Jane’s Addiction have all been brought together and staged by two friends… with absolutely zero experience as rock festival producers.
But what lawyer and real-estate developer Bob Vogt, and his partner, businessman Gabriel Meyers do have is an affinity for music and some pretty hardcore connections to make this happen. Forming Will Power Entertainment, this non-corporate production is a tribute of sorts to Vogt’s autistic son, and some of the festival’s proceeds will go to charity as they formed a non-profit called Autism CHORDS- having teamed up with 23 other non-profits in the region as well. The unique locale of Napa lends the festival their highest standard for hospitality, therefore partygoers will be able to partake in tastings from over 40 local wineries in addition to schmoozing-it-up with some serious chefs and artists. Rock on…just don’t keep it too calm. www.bottlerocknapavalley.com
