ALBANY, NY – The City of Albany and KeyBankare proud to present Dad Fest, a free Father’s Day event throughout Washington Park this Sunday, June 15th. Dad Fest will feature a classic car show, presented by ParkAlbany, along with live music by Psycho Circus NYC (Kiss Tribute), Slippery When Wet NJ (Bon Jovi Tribute) and The Wheel (Grateful Dead Tribute) on the Main Parade Grounds. Enjoy great food and craft vendors, The Mobile Golf Club providing free swings and, free rock climbing and bounce houses for kids from 10:00am to 6:00pm. Media sponsor for the show is Q105.7/103.5
Now in its eleventh year, Dad Fest is the City of Albany’s celebration of all the fantastic fathers and father figures out there. It’s a chance for the whole family to kick back and enjoy an early summer afternoon at one of the Capital Region’s most picturesque parks, surrounded by classic cars, good folks, good tunes and good times. Of course, you don’t have to be a dad to enjoy Dad Fest – this event offers a little fun for everyone.
For more information on Dad Fest and all of the City of Albany’s free, family-friendly events, visitwww.albanyevents.org, 518.434.2032 or follow albanyNYevents on Facebook, X and Instagram.
12:30pm – 2:00pm
Buckle up, put it in gear, and enjoy the ride with NY Capital Region’s authentic sounding Grateful Dead tribute band, The Wheel as they put their driving spin on the music you love and enjoy.
“The Wheel brings a big, danceable groove to the party, driven by the deep pocket of rhythm guitarist and bandleader Andy Morse, bassist Dave Pallas, drummer Bob McKeon and percussionist Pete Andriakos. They provide an unshakable foundation over which lead guitarist Bryan Gautie and keyboardist Kenny Schneidman weave solo after evocative solo together with virtuosity and taste. Yet they are also capable of complex, interwoven conversations that display the nuance and dynamic range of the Dead’s music in quieter, more blissful passages. Vocally, The Wheel possesses a diverse blend of styles, from Morse’s smooth, heartfelt delivery, Schneidman’s full-throated soul, and Bryan Gautie’s Jerry Garcia-like tenderness.” - Nippertown
2:30pm – 4:00pm
SLIPPERY WHEN WET NJ are not just a tribute band; they are a group of seasoned veterans from the vibrant New Jersey music scene. Raised on the same mean streets and reared in many of the same bars and nightclubs as Jon Bon Jovi and his band, these experienced rockers bring the same electrifying energy, boundless enthusiasm, and unmistakable New Jersey attitude to the stage as Bon Jovi did in the height of their glory days circa 1986!For over 24 years, SLIPPERY WHEN WET NJ has been perfecting their show, and they are stronger than ever. Lead singer Mike Parkes bears an uncanny resemblance to a young Jon Bon Jovi, down to the last detail of his wardrobe. His vocal prowess hits all the high notes, and his stage presence mirrors Jon’s youthful energy. Alongside him, Radicci channels a young Richie Sambora, delivering blazing guitar solos that replicate the original recordings to perfection. Together, they form a frontline that rivals Jon and Richie themselves. Backing this dynamic duo is a rock-solid rhythm section: Sean Faust on keyboards, Ronnie Parkes on bass, and Ron Lipnicki on drums. With pristine backing vocals, this group of Jersey Boys creates an unforgettable and authentic Bon Jovi experience that captivates any audience. Since their formation in 2001, SLIPPERY WHEN WET NJ has to been playing sold out shows across the globe in performing arts center, casinos, fair, festivals and corporate events. SLIPPERY WHEN WET NJ has even had the honor of playing for troops in many countries, including Afghanistan, Qatar, Kyrgyzstan, UAE, Kuwait, South Korea, Jordan, and Japan. Experience the ultimate Bon Jovi tribute with SLIPPERY WHEN WET NJ. This band is a force to be reckoned with and guarantees an exhilarating performance that leaves you feeling like you’ve stepped back into the heyday of Bon Jovi!
4:30pm – 6:00pm
YOU WANTED THE BEST - YOU GOT THE BEST! Re-live the Kiss Experience with powerhouse rock group PSYCHO CIRCUS NYC as they authentically recreate the true unmistakable sound, raw energy and electrifying performance of the legendary band, KISS. Don't miss this unforgettable concert experience that KISS fans have come to know and expect
CLASSIC CAR SHOW PRESENTED BY PARKALBANY
10:00am - 2:00pm
The 8th Dad Fest Classic Car show presented by ParkAlbany in partnership with Capital Car Showswill circle the inner roads of Washington Park with a hundred cars to walk through and admire! 20% of the registration proceeds go toward the Henry Johnson Vet House of Albany. If you would like to enter your car or are looking for more information visit http://www.dadfestcarshow.com/
Dad Fest is presented by generous event sponsors:
KeyBank
ParkAlbany
Toyota
Market 32 / Price Chopper
DeCrescente
Barefoot Wine
CDTA
Albany Med EmUrgentCare
Capital Car Shows
Raventures/Apex Entertainment
Hilton Garden Inn Albany Medical Center
Recovery Sports Grill
Leafguard
Vista Home Improvement
Verizon
HOTWORKX
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Tri City Valley Cats
Albany Patroons
Albany Firebirds
APD
AFD
DGS
DGS Recycles
Veterans Housing & Services
Overit
Media Partners:
Q105.7/103.5
Albany.com
Discovery Albany
Lamar Billboard
Martin.
Metroland Now
Mirth Films
NYS Music
RadioRadio X
Spot518
Special ground rules in effect:
No glass containers.
No animals or pets.
No recording of performances.
All City of Albany parks are now tobacco & marijuana free.
# # #