“California Dreamin’” Becomes Reality at Main Street Blast

KIAFest Main Street Blast 2010, the 13th edition of this award-winning special event, will take place from 3 to 11 p.m. on Saturday in Sims Park and around Orange Lake in downtown New Port Richey.

The concert theme is “California Dreamin’” and hearkens back to the music of Southern California in the 60s and 70s, with tribute bands playing the music of the Mamas and the Papas, the Beach Boys, the Doobie Brothers and the Eagles.

Also on stage will be young Tiffani Cruz, performing the National Anthem, and comedian Lou Angelwolf.

“This event has always featured classic rock music, and we like to recreate certain facets of that fantastic era,'' said Judy DeBella Thomas, executive director of Greater New Port Richey Main Street, the organizer of the event. "Last year we paid homage to the 40th anniversary of Woodstock, and this year we want to take everyone back to the California beach culture that was such a big part of those fun times. John Gilliss of Friendly KIA has ‘tricked out’ a Surfin’ Soul and a Sorento ‘Woody,’ which will be on site.''

In addition to the music, KIAFest will feature its annual fireworks show, sponsored by Lucas, Green, and Magazine, scheduled between 9:30 and 10 p.m., weather conditions permitting, at Orange Lake. The 9th Annual Miss Firecracker Contest will offer cash prizes and other goodies for the winners. And the event’s annual salute to our troops will devote special attention to the "sand soldiers" in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Southern Cruisers Riding Club and the Gulfside Car Club will be combining to raise funds for soldiers, and both clubs will have their vehicles, motorcycles and classic autos on display at the event, along with a motorcycle raffle managed by the Cotee River Bike Fest. There will be a dunk tank sponsored by Advanced Research and manned by Marine veteran Adam Randall.

Look for a special appearance by The Swampmaster, Jeff Quattrocchi, who gained worldwide fame at Main Street’s recent Cotee River Seafood/Blues Fest. In addition, there will be river cruises along the Cotee River aboard the Miss Daisy, food and beverage vendors, and two beer trucks to offer cold refreshments.

To deal with the heat, there will be shade tents in the concert venue and areas with cooling mist hoses.

“We want people to get out, relax and enjoy a great day in the park to celebrate our independence,” said DeBella Thomas.

For more information, visit http://www.nprmainstreet.com/ or call 727-842-8066.