Chelsea Kicks off Sights & Sounds Fest Today

The streets of Chelsea will come alive with music, art and entertainment for the third annual Sights & Sounds Music Festival this weekend.

The event, formerly known as SummerFest, started more than three decades ago as merchant sidewalk sales and has since burgeoned into a highlight of summer that draws visitors from throughout the state.

“It has always been our vision to grow our festival as a major regional event,” said Bob Pierce, executive director of the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce. “We’re very pleased with the quality of entertainment we’re able to bring to Chelsea every year.”

The festival kicks off Thursday with a performance by the Chelsea House Orchestra at the Chelsea District Library following an official proclamation from the city at 5:45 p.m. From there, visitors can enjoy live musical entertainment at various businesses around town for free.

At 6:30 p.m., the party begins in the Sounds & Sights social tent (located behind the Common Grill) with a performance by the Ben Daniels Band, Theo Katzman and Macpodz.

“We have some absolutely killer bands this year in the social tent,” Pierce said. “Thursday’s performances will appeal to the college crowd and younger.”

Other bands performing in the social tent throughout the weekend include the Twistin’ Tarantulas and Sun Messengers on Friday and The Soul Men Blues Brothers Tribute and Fifty Amp Fuse on Saturday.

The social tent is open from 6:30-11 p.m. each night and offers beer and wine for sale. There is a $5 fee, and all ages are welcome.

“Fifty Amp Fuse is always a festival favorite,” Pierce said. “This is the third year we’ve had them close out the weekend.”

In addition to live entertainment, organizers have expanded the festival this year to include a juried art market beginning at 10 a.m. Friday and Saturday. The art market features 20 artists from throughout the state.

The Chelsea Classic Cruisers Car Club will also sponsor its annual car show Friday on Middle Street and East Street, Pierce said.

“The classic car show is quickly becoming one of the largest attended in the county,” he said. “It’s always well-attended and something people look forward to every year.”

Other activities scheduled during the weekend include the Chelsea Rotary Duck Race, farmers market and children's crafts.

For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit the festival website.