In June, Escanaba will transform Ludington Street into a lively stage filled with music and lumberjack demonstrations, honoring the city's timber history. The first-ever Escanaba LogJam Music Festival aims to celebrate the community's deep-rooted connection to the timber industry while uniting residents through entertainment and cultural traditions. This free event will feature live performances from multiple bands, a logging show, vendor stands, and food trucks. One of the highlights includes a performance by Them Pesky Kids, featuring guitarist Mark Woerpel, who is thrilled to return home for this unique occasion.
Additionally, the festival will highlight traditional lumberjack skills through Bruce Belanger's Great Lakes Timber Show, which has entertained audiences across the country for over four decades. Through engaging activities such as chainsaw carving and logrolling, the event emphasizes the importance of educating people about logging's historical and contemporary significance. Held in Escanaba's newly approved Social District, attendees can enjoy drinks purchased from participating businesses during the celebration.
Live Music Enriches Escanaba's Cultural Tapestry
The Escanaba LogJam Music Festival showcases an impressive lineup of talented musicians, bringing together local and regional acts to celebrate Escanaba's vibrant musical heritage. With performances spanning various genres, the event promises to captivate audiences and create lasting memories. Featuring renowned acts like Them Pesky Kids, the festival pays homage to Escanaba's rich musical legacy while fostering connections among community members.
This exciting musical experience kicks off with captivating performances by Sit Down Francis, Sky Pilots, and Stonewall, all hailing from Escanaba and surrounding areas. Guitarist Mark Woerpel, a native son returning home for the festival, brings extensive experience having played with numerous acclaimed bands including Blackfoot, Stormbringer, and Moxy Roxx. His current band, Them Pesky Kids, is known for delivering powerful rock anthems characterized by dynamic vocals, electrifying guitar riffs, and thunderous drumbeats. As part of this unforgettable day, festival-goers will have the opportunity to witness these exceptional talents perform live on Ludington Street, creating a memorable celebration of Escanaba's thriving music scene.
Traditional Lumberjack Skills Take Center Stage
Beyond the thrilling sounds of live music, the Escanaba LogJam Music Festival also offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of traditional lumberjack skills. Bruce Belanger's Great Lakes Timber Show delivers an action-packed demonstration that educates and entertains audiences of all ages. Combining elements of history, humor, and fun, Belanger ensures visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship behind logging practices.
Through mesmerizing displays of chainsaw carving, axe throwing, cross-cut sawing, and logrolling, Belanger highlights the enduring relevance of these time-honored techniques in today's society. For more than 40 years, his captivating performances have traveled extensively throughout the United States, gracing fairs and festivals alike. Now returning to his roots in Escanaba, Belanger eagerly anticipates reconnecting with familiar faces and introducing new enthusiasts to the thrill of lumberjack competitions. By integrating education and entertainment, the Great Lakes Timber Show reinforces the vital role logging plays in shaping Escanaba's identity and preserving its proud timber heritage.