The Malvern Country Music Gathering, a cherished tradition for over 25 years, is set to return this weekend at the Liberty Memorial Building, located at 501 Main Street in Malvern. The event kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and runs until 11 p.m., continuing Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fred Larson will host the festivities.
Founded in 1999 to showcase local music talent of all skill levels, the gathering holds a special place in the community. “We’re really excited and have been working hard for this milestone event,” Larson said during an appearance on KMA’s “Morning Show.” He noted that while this will be the 25th event, the festival skipped 2020 due to COVID-19. Larson has been at the helm since 2011, following three years of assisting the founders, Earl and Ruth Smith of Pacific Junction.
Food will be available starting at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, and the main attractions include open-stage jam sessions featuring both acoustic and electric performances. These will take place from 7 to 11 p.m. on Friday and from 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday. The shows will encompass a wide range of musical styles, including traditional country music, bluegrass, and Civil War-era songs.
A highlight of this year’s gathering will be a Veterans Day Tribute on Saturday at 5:45 p.m., honoring local veterans. “It’s a very special event that lasts about 45 minutes,” Larson explained. The tribute will feature a color presentation by the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, led this year by Martin Mundorf and his team.
Admission is $3 for Friday night and $4 for all-day access on Saturday, with children aged six and under admitted for free. All proceeds from the festival will support the Liberty Building Fund.
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