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Candler Park Music Festival: Making A Bang Without Breaking The Bank

May 24, 2017 - By Brando Rich

We've all see this happen, a festival that was once new, local, and small has been around for a while and has gradually gotten larger, better known, and more expensive. It's cool to watch a festival grow into something more with bigger acts, a larger stage, and more attendees, but it sucks to go from paying something like $50 for a pass to closer to $200. There are so many festivals around nowadays that it seems like you have to dish out big bucks just to attend one with a good lineup. Candler Park Music and Food Festival is one of the few festivals that have been around for years and grown in size, but still remains affordable.

Candler Park Music and Food Festival began 8 years ago under the name Midsummer Music and Food Festival. Back then the entry was free and the artists were local. Over the years it began to get bigger and bigger and it grew into an event that people traveled to from all around the Southeast and beyond.

This year the lineup is incredible, including JRAD, Railroad Earth, Matisyahu, The Motet, Lake Street Dive, and more! But the music isn't the only thing to get excited about, there will also be 20+ food trucks which means there will be something for everyone. They have guaranteed vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegetarian options. Each food truck is hand selected from the best and tastiest vendors Atlanta has to offer.

Danielle Sudderth, the Marketing Manager for Rival Entertainment who are responsible for making Candler happen, told us how they go about choosing vendors.

"We have a round of applications every year, which usually includes some of our favorites from years' past. There's also a round of 'research' that's done to taste test some new trucks in and around Atlanta to see if they make the cut!"

All of this and Candler has still managed to keep its ticket prices to a mere $25 for GA and $80 for VIP, which includes express admission, reserved viewing spots, private consessions, VIP restrooms, complimentary bicycle valet, and treats from the sponsors. Speaking of sponsors, Terrapin Beer Co. is one of the sponsors this year, meaning their will be plenty of delicious beer!

Not only does Candler keep their prices low, they also give back to the community. They will be hosting a 5K race to benefit Atlanta ContactPoint, a nonprofit to engage kids and adults "through the power of play." They will also be donating a portion of their proceeds to the Candler Park Neighborhood Organizaton. In fact, last year they were able to donate over $28,000 to CPNO.

This fest really does have it all! Even it's location is hard to compete with. The park itself makes for a perfect venue with a natural gathering place in the front corner. This will be the box office and entrance that will empty into a walkthrough area where patrons will first venture through the market full of local artists before filtering into the rest of the festival. There are paved parking lots reserved for the food vendors that will hold plenty of seating for enjoying tasty treats.

"The main area of the festival is a big field with a natural hill to hang out on in the shade. We're excited to have a Terripan Draft Beer Lounge with seasonal and new brews by the Athens Brewery. This will also be a great area to get out of the sun for a little while. The main stage is at the far end of the field but it's only about a 7 minute walk from the front gates to the front stage. Really, everything you need is close and accessible!"

There's really not much more one could ask for from a festival. Who can pass up a sick lineup, the huge variety of delicious food, a beautiful venue, or the great causee it benefits? Tickets are insanely cheap and still available here. Candler Park Music and Food Festival takes place in Atlanta, GA on June 2 & 3. Take it from Danielle herself:

"This year is one of the best music lineups yet! Atlanta is about to be blown away by so much talent on one stage!"