May 19, 2013
Denise Hingson, Road House Band, and Kentucky Headhunters have already kicked off what's called the south's largest country music festival.
Country music award winner Brad Paisley will go from your T.V.to live on the stage for the 16th Annual Suwannee River Jam.
Barbara Hyder came from Gainesville, FL for the Jam. She said, "The country music, oh, it's great. We enjoy that most of all. We get out there and clap and stand up and hoop and holler and sing along, right along with everybody."
Twenty thousand are expected to fill the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park this weekend, for what's called the South's largest country music festival.
Organizers say they haven't tabulated the exact economic impact over the years, but say folks are spending money.
James Cornett, the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park President/CEO, said, "I can tell you it's in the millions. Every hotel room is filled for miles. People are going to Wal-mart and gas stations and various community stores."
Charles Pennington is visiting for his fourth year all the way from New Jersey. "I get to immerse myself in southern culture, listen to good southern music, enjoy the nature of the park, eat southern food."
First-timers Amanda Henderson and Kimberly Waters say they had to come from Waycross, GA to experience it for themselves. They said, "To see Gary Allan. Yeah, Gary Allan and Brad Paisley."
All eyes will also be on Joe Nichols, Lorrie Morgan and others.
Concerts continue throughout Friday and Saturday.
For a complete list of artists and show times, go to the "As Seen on WCTV" section on this website.
