Pensacola Bay Music Fest 2023 finalizes fall lineup

If you missed the spring 2023 edition of the Pensacola Bay Music Fest that happened back in April, there’s no need to worry. The Fall 2023 edition is quickly approaching.

The Pensacola Bay Music Fest has recently released its upcoming lineup for Sept. 30 at Vince Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park, and music fans from far and wide need to get ready to rock.

Brought to you by Apex Shows and Events with presenting sponsors Keep Pensacola Beautiful and Visit Pensacola, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., the Pensacola Bay Music Festival will be featuring a quartet of tribute bands playing 12 hours of your old familiar favorites. While April’s lineup leaned toward a more classic rock sound, September’s lineup will have more of a ‘90s feel to it.

Doors will open at 11 a.m., and Signs of Sacrifice will kick things off, playing from noon until 2 p.m. There’s no doubt you’ll need a water break afterward to stay hydrated, because Subliminal Doubt will start at 3 p.m., followed by Jeremy’s Ten at 6 p.m. and Wicked Serenity closing it out at 8 p.m.

“It’s going to be a great time,” Apex Shows and Events Event Coordinator Christie Sachse said.

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But if you think these tribute bands will be putting their own spin on things like a cover band, don’t get it twisted. According to Sachse, there’s a huge difference between the two.

“Cover bands may play songs from a wide range of artists and add in some of their own original music,” Sachse said. “But tribute bands stick to emulating one artist, playing only their songs.”

And it doesn’t stop there. When Signs of Sacrifice, Subliminal Doubt, Jeremy’s Ten, and Wicked Serenity take the stage, you’ll won’t help but notice that they look and sound just like Creed, No Doubt and Gwen Stefani, Pearl Jam, and Godsmack, respectively.

That means attention to detail is key.

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Cover bands are given wide open fields of freedom to perform songs whichever way they choose, regardless of outward appearance. Tribute bands, on the other hand, yield no room for error. The mannerisms, facial expressions, wardrobe, even the way they perform are watched closely.

“It’s the next best thing,” Sasche said. “You usually have to travel a good bit and pay a lot of money to see the real bands, so this way people can enjoy themselves at a fraction of the cost.”

So how much are tickets? General Admission starts at $25 in advance or at the door. VIP Tables that will seat up to 6 people are $350. Children 12 and under get in for free.

Parking will also be free in the main parking lot, and attendees are welcome to bring their blankets and chairs with them. But no outside coolers or tents allowed.

“There will be more than 10 food trucks parked out there serving food and drinks throughout the event and plenty of craft vendors, so you won’t need to bring a cooler,” Sasche said. “And wear sunscreen.”

Tickets for Fall Pensacola Bay Music Fest are now on sale. For more information, visit www.apexshowsandevents.com

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Pensacola Bay Music Fest 2023 finalizes fall lineup Sept. 30 event