Molly Prior

The music scene in Worcester is thriving this summer. From big name arena concerts at the DCU Center to smaller theater shows, to festivals there is sure to be something for everyone. At the historical Worcester Palladium, there are many events happening for all audiences. One of them is the “Sad Summer Festival”, a collection of artists from a wide range of genres, from EDM to alternative.

The festival will take place on Sunday, July 14th. Doors will open at 1 pm and the concert will begin at 2 pm. This is the second year that the festival has come to Worcester. Some of the artists that are set to appear are: The Maine, State Champs, 4 Years Strong and more. The festival is a traveling one, touring 17 other cities this summer including Atlanta, Philadelphia and New York City. The ticket prices are an average $35-40.

Although the primary target audience are college age students and young adults, the event organizers hope that all ages will be encouraged to attend, as there will be different types of music. Tickets went on sale in March and preparation has been ongoing since. Chris Beesaw is the main organizer of the event, and Kim Carter is in charge of marketing and communications for the concert.

“Due to the event taking place outside at the Palladium Outdoors, we have more options as to what we can do with the concert,” said Carter, when talking about what can be expected at the event. “There will be food trucks and vendors, as well as bars.”

As for the musical acts that will be present for the event, Carter said attendee’s can expect a wide variety. There will be bands that are more well known, and some that are up and coming. “The Maine is the headliner, and they have a pretty big following. They participated in the ‘Warped Tour’ so it’s really exciting to have them come. Then we also have local bands to the Worcester area such as 4 Years Strong. This gives them a great opportunity to develop their audience and build on the fanbase already have.”

With the festival scene becoming increasingly popular, it seemed like the ideal move to have one right here in Worcester. Carter talked about how she thinks music festivals bring a new type of enthusiasm and unity to the music scene not just in Worcester, but everywhere. “With festivals, you have artists that you would probably never see together come on stage,” she explained. “It encourages musical diversity. People may come for one band, but be completely surprised when they enjoy another one. Therefore they discover new music.”

The party doesn’t end after the show is over though. After the concert, the “Sad Summer Nites” after party will take place inside the Palladium, on the downstairs level. The after party will feature DJ’s that were guests during the concert. It will give a more dance oriented and EDM spin on the event, as well as a chance for the DJ musicians to have their own time to shine. Tickets for the after party are $10, and doors will open at 10 p.m.

The event may be called “Sad Summer Festival”, but it will be sure to put a smile on your face and heat up your summer. From good food, to good music and good friends, it will be an overall great time. You won’t want to miss this summer music highlight.

For tickets, go to thepalladium.net or call (508) 797-9696.