John D. Hale Band's annual Barn Party kicks off today

The grounds of the 5-H Ranch in Jackson will be filled with campers, music lovers and families from all across the area as the fifth annual John D. Hale Band Barn Party kicks off today.

Liz Hale, coordinator of the barn party and wife of local country musician John D. Hale, said the ranch makes the event more accommodating for its growing fan base.

"The barn party is on our huge family-owned exotic animal ranch, which is named for the Hale Family," Liz Hale said. "The 5-H Ranch has been a staple of this community for years now, and since we are not operating as a drive-through animal park anymore, it's great to have a music festival here."

The two-day festival has grown every year since its inception, and this weekend's event is expected to draw nearly double last year's crowd of 1,700. Last year, the campers alone outnumbered total attendance from the previous three years combined.

"Basically, we're using pretty much the whole farm for this party," Liz Hale said. "You have to come see this in person. After all, we are having a music festival on a camel ranch. There is nothing about that that is normal, but it's the only normal the Hales know."

The barn party entertainment has always had local and regional acts and has centered on the John D. Hale Band. This year, local favorites are joined by featured acts Reckless Kelly from Austin, Texas, and Nashville, Tenn.'s Dani Flowers.

"I've been a fan of Reckless Kelly for probably the last 15 years. In my opinion, there's not a better live band anywhere," John Hale said. "I'm probably the most excited to see Dani Flowers. Dani writes great songs, but I haven't had the chance to catch her with her full band, so I'm really looking forward to it."

In addition, barn party performers include Powder Mill, Matt Stell and Deep Roots, the Chris Welch Band, Cole Porter, the Walker Brothers, the Justin Heskett Band and Evan Webb. All of the acts classify themselves as country, southern rock or Americana. This year, five music slots were added, along with a second day of performances.

"This will be the third year running that I've been to the barn party, and I'll keep going as long as they keep putting them on," said Frank Tilly of Paducah, Ky. "I can't say that I've had a better time anywhere else. The music is always great, and that's coming from a guy who likes rock over country music."

Even though the barn party has expanded every year, John Hale said it still remains a community-centered event.

"It's just a very laid-back, although somewhat rowdy at times, live music festival. An event that everyone can come out to and see an old friend or meet new ones," John Hale said. "I believe last year we had people from 13 or 14 different states, so it's a great melting pot of people that are all there for the same reasons: live music and friends."

Both John and Liz Hale say that barn party staff members also try to look out for the attendees and work with local businesses to ensure that everyone stays safe, especially when it comes to drinking and driving. Last year, organizers had designated drivers on call. But Liz Hale said the precautions don't detract from the fun atmosphere.

"You know that feeling when, for just a little bit, you are able to stop your mind and not worry about normal day-to-day stress? That is the kind of experience you can expect to have at the barn party," Liz Hale said. "We strive for a relaxed but family-friendly event, where people enjoy themselves responsibly and respectfully."

Gates for the fifth annual John D. Hale Band Barn Party open at 5 p.m. today, with music slated to begin at 6 p.m. On Saturday, the party opens at 3 p.m. with performances starting at 4 p.m. Food and beverage vendors Bel Air Grill, LuLu's BBQ, Dad's Hot Dogs and LeGrand Kettle Corn will be on site. No coolers or pets are allowed, and the event is rain or shine. Camping on-site is also encouraged. Tickets are $25 per day, or $40 for the weekend, and are available at the gate. For more information or tickets, visit johndhaleband.com.

jsamons@semissourian.com

388-3641

Pertinent address:

2325 County Road 618, Jackson, MO