July is just around the corner, and although the branding is somewhat unofficial, it’s safe to call it the beginning of a very intense rock festival season in America. Their popularity never fades as the combination of great music and a fun outdoor atmosphere is hard to resist. The band announcements for these gatherings have been trickling in over the past few months, but if you’re looking for a quick and to the point summary of each one, you’ve come to the right place. Remember to check back here throughout the summer as you’ll find photography and reviews from the Moondance Jam, Dakota Rock Fest, Sturgis, Rock Gone Wild, and more!
Rocklahoma – July 9, 10, 11, 12 – Pryor, Oklahoma – RATT, STRYPER, TWISTED SISTER, NIGHT RANGER, THIN LIZZY, GREAT WHITE, WARRANT, SKID ROW, DANGER DANGER, KIX, NELSON, KEEL, HELIX, ANVIL, SAXON, ANTHRAX, VIXEN – It made headlines when it was first conceived not only as a success, but a wild party. The biggest ’80s festival returns in 2009 with a whole new gang of loud metal acts. If you’ve made the trip to Pryor before it’s likely that you already have tickets in hand, otherwise you might want to give it a try this year. – www.Rocklahoma.com
Moondance Jam – July 16, 17, 18 – Walker, Minnesota – JOURNEY, WHITESNAKE, JUDAS PRIEST, YES, ASIA, SHERYL CROW, FOGHAT, THIN LIZZY, KANSAS, GRAND FUNK RAILROAD, SPIN DOCTORS – With an aim to encompass the very best of classic rock and metal, northern Minnesota’s Moondance Jam has outdone itself this year. The atmosphere, top notch security, and friendly people add to the value and make Walker the perfect place to gather for a rock getaway. A 3-day pass runs at $150, and there’s a wide variety of camping packages to choose from. With full general admission, there’s no limit to the possibilities. – www.MoondanceJam.com
Rock Fest – July 16, 17, 18, 19 – Cadott, Wisconsin – JUDAS PRIEST, JOURNEY, STEVE MILLER, SAVING ABEL, SHERYL CROW, BUCKCHERRY, SHINEDOWN, SEETHER, THEORY OF A DEADMAN, KORN – There’s a more modern feel to this year’s signings at Rock Fest, making it an ideal stop for those with varied taste. VIP ticket holders drop about $130 to get in the gate each day, but are treated to up front seating and other perks. – www.Rock-Fest.com
Dakota Rock Fest – July 24 & 25 – Sioux Falls, South Dakota – DOKKEN, BRET MICHAELS, APRIL WINE, FIREHOUSE, SKID ROW, HEAD EAST, ENUFF Z’NUFF, L.A. GUNS – Cleverly titled “Eastern South Dakota’s Biggest Rock Formation”, this relatively new offering of hard rock and metal takes place at the Sioux Falls Festival Grounds. The reaction was overwhelmingly positive during the festival’s first run last year, and it’s back with an even bigger line up this year. Bring your ear plugs and prepare to get blown away! – www.DakotaRockFest.com
Sturgis’ Buffalo Chip – July 31 to August 8 – Sturgis, South Dakota – AEROSMITH, BILLY SQUIER, LITA FORD, THE GUESS WHO, TESLA, GEORGE THOROGOOD, MARK FARNER, SAVING ABEL, BUCKCHERRY, HINDER, CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVISITED – If you’re an Aerosmith fan it’s tempting, and if you own a motorcyle it’s a must! The Sturgis Rally’s own Buffalo Chip Campground offers the a hard hitting blend of classic and modern rock. Of course, provided that you don’t live under a rock, you know what Sturgis is all about – so little explanation is needed here. You can rock any way you like, and even meet your rock idols if you choose to go VIP. – www.BuffaloChip.com
Rock Gone Wild – August 20, 21, 22, 23 – Algona, Iowa – TWISTED SISTER, DOKKEN, LITA FORD, KIX, SKID ROW, GREAT WHITE, LA GUNS, DANGEROUS TOYS, HELIX, PUDDLE OF MUDD, GEORGE THOROGOOD, APRIL WINE, HONEYMOON SUITE, SAXON, JACKYL, WARRANT, SAIGON KICK, CANDLEBOX, EVE 6, SALIVA – It’s going to be wild indeed at Rock Gone Wild, a brand new gathering that offers more rock than you can handle. The small town of Algona will become a bustling city when the campers and travelers roll in to rock. If you’re contemplating a trip to see this variety filled festival, the current special of two 4-day passes for $200 may be enough to seal the deal. This offer does expire tomorrow, so take advantage. – www.RockGoneWild.com
