Walker, a small town in upper Minnesota, hosted to Moondance Jammin Country #3 June 18-20. Fifteen top country artists performed on the main stage while bands from nearby played at the Saloon Stage. These local bands from surrounding states started earlier in the day and played long into the evening.
This is a camping experience bar none. There is always something to see or do at Moondance. Vendors with food, beer and souvenirs were all around the area. This concert is a little different from the rest of the country concerts around the state. Fans can get close to the stage to see the artists perform. Of course you want to get there early in the day to pick out your spot by the fence. An estimated 20,000-25,000 people attended the three-day event. That makes is small enough you don’t have to fight the crowds. People brought their own chairs and picked their own spot to watch the artists on the stage. The stage could be seen from almost every angle. Campsites were close enough to the stage that it was only a short walk. Parking was free at the local Northern Lights Casino for those not camping. Free bus rides run constantly to the area. Those who wanted to stay out of the elements and in the shade reserved VIP seating under a roofed area off to the side of the stage.
The Saloon stage resembles a converted barn with an area for dancing. Beer was purchased there and there was also inside seating. There was another indoor restaurant called the Lazy Moon Backstage Bar that overlooked the back stage area where drinks and food can be purchased while watching what goes on backstage. Meet and greats were held backstage also. Artists sign guitars for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Rains were predicted, but hardy Midwesterners are not fazed by a little rain. When they want to see and hear their favorite bands, nothing deters them. Raincoats and plastic sheeting were brought by the well prepared.
Phil Vassar
Thursday started with Chrystal Shawanda, Flynnville Train and 32 Below. Fans were excited to hear the legendary Kenny Rogers. Phil Vassar came out on stage and got in five or six songs before they announced rains were on the way with lightning. The Moondance Staff decided to cancel the concert for the evening. Kenny Rogers fans were disappointed. But it was a good call to protect the fans and the artists. Safety is always a priority at Moondance.
Shooter Jennings
Rain was forecast for Friday, but the fans were not dismayed. The ever-popular Bomshel sang one of their new songs so emotional it brought tears to many in the crowd. Again, these two women are ultimate performers. Shooter Jennings, son of Waylan Jennings, performed a couple songs in the rain, but fans did not move away from the stage.
Little Big Town (“Boondocks” and “Bring it on Home”) wowed the audience, and rising country star Jason Aldean (“Why She’s Country”) brought out his best songs for the evening.
Rodney Adkins
Saturday was a typically beautiful Minnesota summer day with sunshine and a light breeze. The crowds grew larger as the weather became sunnier. Restless Heart (“When She Cries”) and Collin Raye (“Love Me” and “My Kind of Girl”) performed in the afternoon. New young talent Jason Michael Carroll (“Growing Up” and “Getting’ Old”) started the evening’s performance followed by Rodney Atkins (“It’s America”). The final event performers were the award-winning duo Montgomery/Gentry.
What a way to end a perfect three days. Camping is such a big part of this event and activities are always planned for the campers. Northern Lights Casino came on stage daily, threw hats, t-shirts and can covers into the audience.
On July 16-18, Walker, Minn., hosts the 18th Annual three-day rock concert called Moondance Jam. Some of the artists featured this year are Journey, Sheryl Crow, Kansas, Judas Priest and Whitesnake. The final night’s artists are YES, Asia, Grand Funk Railroad plus many others.
Minnesota and Wisconsin are Meccas for country and rock concerts during the summer. It’s great place to vacation for music lovers and campers alike.
