The lineup for the Cripple Creek Music Festival had a revamp since we first brought you details about the inaugural festival in Fort Mitchell, KY, earlier this summer. But we couldn’t be more excited about the addition of Karl Denson’s Tiny Universeas the headliner for the full-day festival on October 20th, capping off plans for what will be a welcome pick-up of the fall fun slack after Oktoberfest season.
The Music
The 2-stage full day festival will take place on the DCCH Grounds in Fort Mitchell, KY. The main stage will be outside in the cool fall air and will host a diverse lineup of headliners. Karl Denson has spent the last few years as the saxophonist in the Rolling Stones touring band. He is also well known for his long stint in Lenny Kravitz’ band, Slightly Stoopid, and more. But those accolades take a backseat to his role as a founding member of the transformative funk/jazz group The Greyboy Allstars. KDTU is a collection of original Greyboy Allstars members plus more of Karl’s musical friends and cohorts- a master’s class on funk that will warm us up on a late October night. Before they cap off the night, Ironhorse will bring their fast-paced bluegrass up from Alabama. The Restless Leg Stringband (Lexington) are no strangers to bluegrass/jamband fans in the Cincinnati area and will be kicking off the outdoor festivities in the afternoon.
The indoor “barn” will house a smaller stage and see early afternoon sets from Andy King & Dangertown and The Yugo Gypsy Trio, before local favorite and talented singer-songwriter Arlo McKinley tops off the indoor fun with what is sure to be a memorable set in a unique setting.
The Drinks
I took a few moments earlier this summer to chat with local music-lover and festival founder Tom Miller about music, beer, bourbon, purpose, and his plans to serve plenty of all four at Cripple Creek. Tom is a self-professed bourbon lover. So, if he’s going to throw a music festival, you better believe there will be a bourbon bar. Ludlow’s BIRCUS Brewing Company will also be on tap and will provide a selection of what you can find in their taphouse.
The Purpose
Tom’s ultimate goal for Cripple Creek Music Festival is to be zero-waste. He admits that he won’t be fully there in year 1, but he is taking steps in the right direction such as requesting attendees to bring refillable water bottles, dispersing one mug per person for alcoholic drinks, and choosing food vendors that minimize waste. Beyond food and drink, Tom is selecting vendors that support causes such as fair trade, sustainability, and more.
Finally- Tom was diagnosed with ALS three years ago. His response to that diagnosis was to start the 501(c)(3) foundation Winning with ALS- an organization that soon hopes to begin awarding grants to school-age children who have a parent diagnosed with ALS. Proceeds from corporate sponsorship of the Cripple Creek Music Festival will help support these grants. Those interested in corporate sponsorship should reach out to Tom at WinningWithALS1@gmail.com.
Tickets
Tickets are on sale now! There are currently no plans for walk up ticket sales so plan ahead and purchase tickets today.
