The words “Happy Bliss” can be heard everywhere you go in the small village of Bliss. The weekend of Blissfest is a Holiday for the hundreds of devoted participants and attendees who come to celebrate, and with the cooperation of Mother Nature this year the weather allowed for one of the best Blissfests in quite some time.
As my fellow lime green-shirted--friend and I entered the gates the atmosphere around us changed instantly. Laughing filled the air accompanied by the beat of drums and strumming of guitars. Beaming smiles could be seen on every single suntanned face in sight. It is a whole other world there, away from the disorder of the economy. You will never see so many happy people of all ages in one place as you do at Bliss. One girl mentioned to me that “Blissfest is surreal…it’s the best place to get away and not have a care in the world”. I don’t think I could have said it better myself.
On our journey from stage to stage Becca and I came across one of my favorite local bands “Pinky Lee” back on the third stage. It was peaceful to sit slightly tucked back in the woods away from the chaos of Mainstage and listen to the band’s vocalists Jenny and Holly sing. It was definitely a performance for those seeking a bit of relaxation.
A popular attraction amongst the kids and some of the adults was none other than our favorite local juggler Tommy Tropic who entertained us with his wacky stunts and hilarious commentary. And for those of you who missed his performance we did capture a short video of his tricks for your viewing pleasure. In addition to Tommy who could forget the beloved Twister Joe and his crazy balloon figurines. Kids by the dozens were lined up around Twister Joe requesting anything from a giraffe to a car. Becca and I were tempted to request something ourselves but figured we’d give him a bit of a break. He surprisingly remember me from last year’s Festival on the Bay and the reindeer balloon hat he created for me, but I guess it is hard to forget us and our bright green t-shirts. This brings me to another observation I’ve made, that the members of the “Party Crew” have become somewhat of local celebrities you could say. Some people that I’ve never met in my entire life come up to me, whether dressed in my t-shirt or not, and say “Hey, you’re Alicia from the party crew…we saw your picture from ____”. I’ve even had a little girl come up to me at my other job who said she recognized me, and ran across the street to grab a graphic and have me sign my picture for he. I guess that’s one of the advantages of living in a small town, you know everyone!
Venturing on through the woods more entertainment was discovered as we neared the Drum Kiva. This is a great place for those who are let’s say slightly musically challenged. The Drum Kiva is a great opportunity to gain a better understanding of rhythm and beat, but still have fun at the same time.
After a few dozen photos and another lap around Mainstage it was time to say goodbye to Blissfest. It was a successful Party Crew night and I can’t wait to go back again next year! Until then, Happy Bliss!
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And it's cool that the t-shirts get you recognized and people know the party crew when they see it!