The 2023 version of the George Portz Traditional Music Festival will feature the same kind of music acts and other attractions as previous years, with one major exception: no George Portz.
The legendary fiddle champion, as well as the founder of the festival, died in January. However, his son, Jason Portz, and Dee Hardgrave, George Portz’s girlfriend, are continuing to hold the festival in his memory.
“Jason and I thought it should continue,” Hardgrave said. “The Festus Tourism Commission and the city of Festus feel it should continue. I want to do it in George’s honor. The festival was George’s baby, his pride and joy.”
This year’s festival is scheduled for noon to 6 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 23-24, at the big stage at Larry G. Crites Memorial Park along Old Hwy. A in Festus. The city of Festus and the Festus Tourism Commission sponsor the event.
Ticket prices are $12 for one day or $20 for both days. Children 10 and younger get in free.
As usual, a variety of musical acts, along with a dance group, will perform.
Saturday’s performers, in order, include the Big River Trio & Friends; Kevin Buckley; As the Crowe Flies; Pickin’ Buds; Howlin’ Brothers, Willie Nelson Tribute (Paul Jarvis); Thunder & Lightning Cloggers; and George Portz’s Friends of Bluegrass.
The Sunday performers, in order, will be Big River Trio & Friends; Kevin Merseal & Liz Vaughn; Riverbend Bluegrass Band; Bruce Punches; Pickin’ Buds; Howlin’ Brothers; and George Portz’s Friends of Bluegrass.
“It’s going to be pretty much like it has been in the past,” Hardgrave said. “Jason and I will serve as emcees.”
She said that while most of the performers have appeared at previous Traditional Music Festivals, attendees will get to hear some new ones.
“The Big River Trio is new,” Hardgrave said. “They’re local, from the Fenton area. The Riverbend Bluegrass Band from Alton is new. George gave them their start. Pickin’ Buds is also new. They’re from Waterloo (Ill.)”
She said music groups proven popular at previous Traditional Musical Festivals will once again perform.
“Howlin’ Brothers from Nashville (Tenn.) are coming back,” she said. “They’ve been very popular and came back many years to play for George. Also, Bruce Punches – that’s gospel music – will be back.”
Hardgrave said the festival also will include food trucks and craft show booths.
In addition, the city of Festus posted that once again primitive camping and RVs are allowed during the festival. Electric hook-ups are available for $10 per night.
Hardgrave said that the festival, which has drawn people from all around the country over the years, offers great entertainment. “It’s two days of good music and good fellowship,” she said.
George Portz held the festival for 23 years at Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site in Ellis Grove, Ill. Then, in 2013, he moved it to Festus West City Park (now Crites Park), where it has taken place annually ever since, except during the COVID-19 pandemic.
To purchase tickets or for more information, visit georgeportzTMF.com. Information is also available on the Festus city website at cityoffestus.org.