After the city of Cortez canceled the fireworks show, Montezuma County and local musicians decided to offer a free July Fourth music festival at the fairgrounds.
The COVID-19 Rock ’n’ Roll Escape features four local bands performing from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the main outdoor arena. Gates will open at 4 p.m., and bleacher seating will be available.
The lineup is Jake McIntosh at 5 p.m., Cody & Dewarren at 6 p.m.; Flashback at 7 p.m.; and Black River 8:30 p.m. Sound will be by Eagle Sound.
Guests must bring their own food and nonalcoholic drinks.
County information technology master Jim McClain, whose band Flashback will perform, organized the event for residents with the pandemic blues.
“When I heard the fireworks were canceled, I knew we had to offer an alternative event,” McClain said. “Give credit to all these musicians who stepped up to play a free show. Montezuma County deserves a good time for the Fourth of July.”
Social distancing requirements will be in place for all, including dancers. Health officials recommend wearing face coverings when social distancing is not possible. Ill people are asked to stay home.
No alcohol or fireworks are allowed. Montezuma County Sheriff’s Office will provide security and traffic control.
The event is co-sponsored by the county and the bands, said county administrator Shak Powers, and is insured under the county. The county commissioners voted 3-0 to co-sponsor the event.
The festival could become an expanded annual event with vendors, McClain said.
Flashback specializes in rock music from the 1960s to 1980s. Band members are: McClain, guitar and vocals; Marilyn Kroeker, guitar and vocals; Danny Bankston, drums; Jim Dodson, keyboards; Craig Jorgensen, vocals; and Mark Stevens, bass.
