- Last Updated on Monday, 01 July 2013 00:15
The Mental Health Association of Washington County presents "Wine, Jazz & Pops Festival III" on August 3 and 4.
This year's festival will be held at a brand new location at North Strabane Municipal Park. Only minutes from Washington and 30 minutes from Pittsburgh or Wheeling. Located right off the intersection of Routes 19 and 519 South, this two year old park is an outdoor gem. The $9.5 million dollar facility offers festival goers not only a beautiful park atmosphere but the convenience of modern amenities. Festival attendees will have access to over 300 seats in sheltered pavilions as well as full-functioning restrooms and free paved parking for over 600 cars. The park offers all the scenic beauty of nature and the convenience of home. Of course you are still welcome to pull up your own chair in a choice spot under your own tent.
Entertainment this year features local favorites plus national jazz recording artists. The Washington Symphony Orchestra with Yugo Ikach and the Washington Jazz Orchestra are returning for the third year to delight their fans with their Broadway tunes and classic jazz favorites. The Michael Passalacqua Blues Band returns as well. The headliners this year will include national jazz recording artist Marion Meadows who just released his 13th album “Whispers”. This master of the saxophone is joined by Washington native son, Will Brock, on the keyboards Saturday evening. On Sunday Pittsburgh sensation Bill Deasy will perform. Bill, a singer, songwriter and musician, has enjoyed success as a solo artist thru a string of critically acclaimed records. Cello Fury, Maureen Budway and Joy Ike will also entertain the festival goers that weekend. It’s a full schedule of first class performers.
Then, of course, we have the wine! Eight wineries from Erie to the Allegheny National Forest to Greene County will be giving free-tastings of their fine vintages. Christian Klay Winery, The Winery at Wilcox, Greenhouse Winery, Courtyard Winery, Ripepi Winery, J&D Cellars, Thisthlewaite Vineyards and Kavic Wineries will all be participating. Add in our delicious food vendors and specialty craft booths it is bound to be a great time for all!
Tickets are available in advance for $20 for both days. Buy your ticket early and save $5.00 on the $25 entrance fee at the gate. Purchase tickets on-line at www.mhawashco.org/wjp or send in your check to MHA, 575 North Main Street, Washington, PA 15301. For more information, check the website or call 724-225-2061.