Levitate Music and Arts Festival: A Vibrant Celebration of Community, Creativity, and Timeless Tunes

The quaint town of Marshfield, Massachusetts, was transformed into a vibrant hub of music, art, and community spirit this past July 5-7 as the annual Levitate Music and Arts Festival took center stage. What started as a small local celebration in 2013 has blossomed into a highly anticipated event that now draws thousands of attendees from across the region and beyond, all drawn to the festival's unique blend of roots-inspired music, eclectic artistry, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Uniting Music Lovers and Creatives in a Captivating Coastal Celebration

The Levitate Legacy: From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Community Tradition

The Levitate Music and Arts Festival has its roots in the Levitate Surf Shop, founded in 2003 by Bob Pollard with the aim of "spreading his love of surfing and skating in Marshfield and through the community." Over the years, the shop grew into a large-scale operation with multiple locations, and the festival became a natural extension of the brand's ethos of celebrating local culture and creativity. Starting with just 1,500 attendees in 2013, the festival has steadily grown in popularity, now attracting between 15,000 and 20,000 people each year.

A Diverse Lineup Catering to Eclectic Tastes

The Levitate Music and Arts Festival has consistently featured a diverse lineup of musical acts, spanning a wide range of genres and styles. From the reggae rhythms of Stick Figure and Collie Buddz to the jam-band-inspired sounds of Trey Anastasio and Umphrey's McGee, the festival has something to offer for every music lover. Country, bluegrass, and folk-influenced artists like Billy Strings and Greensky Bluegrass have also graced the Levitate stages, alongside major acts such as Jack Johnson, Brandi Carlile, and Phil Lesh.This year's lineup continued the festival's tradition of showcasing a diverse array of talent, with headliners like Mt. Joy, Lake Street Dive, and the highly anticipated reunion of Sublime with original members Eric Wilson and Bud Gaugh, featuring the late Bradley Nowell's son, Jakob, on vocals. The festival also featured a surprise VIP performance from indie pop band Ripe, as well as a solo set by jam-band legend Mihali, who joined other musicians on stage throughout the day for impromptu collaborations.

A Unique Festival Experience: From Shuttle Rides to Large-Scale Murals

The Levitate Music and Arts Festival offers more than just musical performances; it's a holistic experience that immerses attendees in the local community and culture. Festivalgoers are transported to the Marshfield Fairgrounds venue via school bus "shuttles," adding to the sense of adventure and community. Upon arrival, they're greeted by large-scale murals painted by talented artists, providing a visually stunning backdrop for the event.The festival's commitment to creating a family-friendly, eco-driven atmosphere is evident in the various activities and amenities available. From the diverse food and beverage options to the carefully curated vendor offerings, the Levitate team has crafted an experience that caters to attendees of all ages and interests.

Sublime's Triumphant Return: A Highlight of the Festival

One of the most anticipated performances of the Levitate Music and Arts Festival was the reunion of the iconic band Sublime. Fronted by the late Bradley Nowell in the 1990s, Sublime's unique blend of reggae, punk, and ska made them a beloved staple in the music scene. After Nowell's passing in 1996, the band disbanded, only to be revived in 2009 as Sublime with Rome, featuring original members Bud Gaugh and Eric Wilson.This year, the Levitate stage witnessed the official reformation of Sublime, with the addition of Bradley Nowell's son, Jakob, on vocals. The performance was a highly anticipated event, as the new lineup has only played a handful of shows since their reunion. The crowd erupted in cheers as Sublime took the stage, and the energy only intensified as they debuted their new single "Feel Like That" featuring Stick Figure's Scott Woodruff. Fans of all ages moshed and sang along to classics like "The Ballad of Johnny Butt" and "Doin' Time," before the band closed the festival with a rousing rendition of their hit "Santeria."

A Celebration of Community, Creativity, and Timeless Tunes

The Levitate Music and Arts Festival is more than just a music event; it's a celebration of community, creativity, and the enduring power of music. From the local Marshfield residents who eagerly await the festival each year to the out-of-town visitors drawn to the unique blend of roots-inspired sounds and artistry, the Levitate experience is one that fosters a sense of unity and shared appreciation for the arts.As the festival continues to grow in size and reputation, it remains true to its core values of being "community-oriented, family-friendly, eco-driven and eclectic." The Levitate team's dedication to curating a diverse lineup, creating a welcoming atmosphere, and supporting local artists and businesses has solidified the festival's status as a must-attend event for music and art enthusiasts alike.