HOKES BLUFF– Josh Santos sees the first Loblolly Fest as more than a day of live music. For him, it also marks a new chapter for a property with deep musical roots in Hokes Bluff.

In an interview with WEIS Radio, Santos discussed the venue’s revival, Drake White’s longtime festival vision, and plans to welcome concertgoers Saturday, Oct. 17.

The inaugural Loblolly Fest comes to The Bluff Amphitheater with a lineup featuring White, Randy Houser, The Marshall Tucker Band, and Kassi Ashton.

Gates open at 1 p.m., with music beginning between 2 and 2:30 p.m. The amphitheater is at 1820 U.S. Highway 278 East in Hokes Bluff, with a Gadsden mailing address.

Listen to the full WEIS Radio interview with Josh Santos below for more about the festival, the venue, and what visitors can expect.

A New Chapter for a Familiar Music Site

According to Santos, the amphitheater property previously served as Gold City Music Park, with ties to the gospel group Gold City.

He said he and a friend had an opportunity to purchase the property. Shortly afterward, White called to express interest in joining the effort.

For Santos, those hometown connections help explain the project’s purpose. He and White are from Hokes Bluff, and he described the group’s shared desire to do something special for the community.

White’s family lives just a few miles away, Santos said. Moreover, the idea of a hometown festival had remained part of White’s vision for years.

As a result, the restored venue offers a place to bring that idea to life.

Santos said seeing the property come alive again matters most to him. He described it as a place that had become almost forgotten, but now gives people another opportunity to gather and enjoy music.

A Festival Rooted in Its Surroundings

The festival’s name reflects the setting. Santos said White chose “Loblolly” for the pine trees on the property, a familiar feature of the Southern landscape.

Likewise, Santos described the amphitheater’s rural atmosphere as an important part of its appeal. He hopes visitors will enjoy the country setting alongside the performances.

The day will also offer activities beyond the stage. For example, Santos said organizers plan football-viewing areas beneath the pines, allowing fans to follow games during the festival.

Meanwhile, local restaurants will provide food, and drink vendors will operate throughout the event, he said.

A portion of festival proceeds will benefit White’s Benefit for the Brain, according to the official ticket listing. Santos described the cause as something White cares deeply about following his own stroke and recovery.

Parking and Accessibility Plans

Santos also outlined plans to help visitors reach the venue safely.

He said the main property has approximately 800 parking spaces, with attendants helping direct vehicles. Organizers also plan shuttle transportation across U.S. Highway 278.

Visitors using parking across the highway should take the shuttle rather than walk across the road, Santos emphasized.

In addition, accessible parking will be near the building. Santos also said golf-cart transportation will help guests who need assistance reaching the entrance.

For questions about arrangements, he directed listeners to crystal@thebluffal.com.

Tickets and What to Bring

Tickets are available through iTickets. The listing shows general admission at $85.77, or $64.85 per ticket when purchasing a four-ticket package.

Those prices include required ticketing fees, although applicable taxes may be additional. An advance parking add-on costs $14 per vehicle.

However, seating is first come, first served, with seats behind the standing-room area near the stage. Guests may bring lawn or stadium chairs, but must remove them from carrying bags during security screening.

The outdoor event is rain or shine. Venue rules require clear bags and prohibit weapons, including pocketknives, and outside food and beverages.

Before traveling, attendees should check the official festival page for updates.

As preparations continue, Santos thanked the businesses sponsoring the event and the community members supporting the festival and amphitheater.

Ultimately, he hopes the first Loblolly Fest will introduce more people to the venue and give them a reason to return.

LOCAL NEWS