Downtown Summerfest

Saturday, August 3, 2019 | 5-10 p.m. | Civic Plaza  

This free family-friendly event features fun for the whole family including an artisan market, microbrew garden, food trucks and live entertainment from local and national acts in the heart of Downtown Albuquerque.

Performers

National Headliner – Tommy Castro & The Painkillers

Whether he’s squeezing out the deepest blues or playing the funkiest soul grooves, legendary blues and soul giant Tommy Castro knows how to ignite a crowd. Over the course of his still-unfolding career, the guitarist, vocalist and songwriter has released 15 albums ranging from horn-fueled soul and R&B to piping hot blues to fiery rock ‘n’ roll. He’s performed all over the world, earning countless fans with his legendary, sweat-drenched, exhilarating live shows. Castro’s band, The Painkillers and after hundreds of live shows, they have coalesced into one of the telepathically tightest units Castro has ever assembled, making them one of the most in-demand live roots music acts performing today. Billboard says the band plays “irresistible contemporary blues-rock” with “street-level grit and soul.”

Entertainment Schedule

Main Stage

• 5 p.m. – Merican Slang
• 6 p.m. – The MoonThieves
• 7 p.m. – Str8 Shot
• 8:30 p.m. – Tommy Castro & The Painkillers

Funk-super group, Merican Slang began as a side project of members of several Albuquerque acts who came together to form a band with a truly Merican, Democratic approach to music making. The result is a unique sound that blends Merican-funk with southern rock. The band tours the US performing at premier venues and festivals throughout the Southwest and has shared the stage with a variety of international acts.

The MoonThieves are one of New Mexico’s most exciting live experiences. Their sound is a blend of roots-rock, blues, New Mexico ranchera and alternative Latino cumbia. The band draws on influences from the magical, high deserts of the Land of Enchantment. This four-piece band fills the air with a unique sensual grit and energy that is all at once danceable, daring, wily, fun and unforgettable.

Str8t Shot is a New Mexico Music and variety that was established in 2013. They quickly gained popularity with their unique style and ability to get people on the dance floor. The five-piece band was honored with a Quince Grandes de Nuevo Mexico Music Award in 2016 for Para Que Vivo. Str8 Shot has no plans to settle down, they love to entertain audiences around the Southwest and will continue to spread their lively music.

Microbrew Garden Stage

• 5 p.m. – Michael Moxey & The Easy Sinners
• 6 p.m. – Tracey Whitney
• 7:15 p.m. – Phil Rocker
• 8: 30 p.m. – Innastate

Michael Moxey & The Easy Sinners are a boot scootin’, Western-Americana, alt-country, band that originated in New Mexico and features an all-star group of national and local musicians. Their new album “Heartbreakers Rodeo” released in July. Their first album, “LUCK,” was nominated for best country album in the New Mexico Music Awards in 2018.

A former “Raelette” with the legendary Ray Charles, L.A. native Tracey Whitney, began performing with The Whitney Family at age 11. After touring with Ray, she spent 5 years singing solo in Japan before returning to her roots in Los Angeles. Since relocating to Albuquerque in 2012, she’s been thrilling audiences throughout the city with her unique brand of classic jazz and sophisticated soul in some of the city’s most notable venues and was named “The Best Place for Jazz” in Albuquerque the Magazine’s December 2018 issue.

Colombian born, Phil Rocker, has single-handedly grown the rockabilly genre in his home country and continues to share his music at festivals all over the world.  Rocker’s debut album VIVA-BOP!!! Is the first step in the search for a unique sound that identifies Phil as a Latino rock ‘n roller with a unique and important perspective. His sounds draw influence from the traditional musical heritage of Columbia and blends with his love for rock n’ roll.

Innastate is a contemporary reggae band from the high-desert of New Mexico. The band originated in New Mexico, has been together since the spring of 2014 and has gained momentous acclaim in their brief existence. The band’s musical influences span many genres, creating a brand of reggae and rock that is modern yet honors their Indigenous heritage, musical roots and love of music. The sounds they create reflects on the human experience, spiritual themes and environmental issues. Innastate believes in the power of music to connect people.

Food & Drink

Grab a bite to eat from your choice of many local food trucks. Adults can unwind from the week with a glass of the best beer, spirits and wines from the Albuquerque Convention Center on the Plaza and from local breweries, wineries and distilleries in the Microbrew Garden. Enjoy drinks from Abbey Brewing Co., Boxing Bear Brewing Co., Broken Trail Spirits & Brew, Quarter Celtic Brewpub, Red Door Brewing, Sheehan Winery, Sidetrack Brewing Co., Tractor Brewing Co. and Hollow Spirits Distillery.

Artisan Market

Shop local! Browse through a variety of handcrafted items made by local artisans ranging from pottery, housewares, and baked goods to clothing, body products and jewelry. There will be plenty to choose from and these local artisans have what you’re looking for.

Children’s Activities

The kids’ area is full of fun activities including free face painting, inflatable bounce houses and a 25-foot rock climbing wall presented by the City of Albuquerque Parks & Recreation Department.

Getting There

Parking

Free parking will be available from 4-11 p.m. in the parking garage directly under Civic Plaza. (View Map)

Street parking, paid parking lots and garages are available in the surrounding area, please be sure to follow all parking laws.

Bike Valet

Take advantage of the free Bike Valet provided by Esperanza Bicycle Education Center.

Event Specifics

Downtown Summerfest is free to the public. Pets are welcome on leashes. This is a rain or shine event.