FestForums brings festival creators together in Santa Barbara
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) A three-day conference for festival creators, known as FestForums, got underway at the Mar Monte Hotel in Santa Barbara on Wednesday.
Festival leaders, producers, organizers and more are networking, attending panels discussions, checking out exhibitors, and listening to live music.
Technology, sustainability, safety, wellness, marketing are among the topics.
Experts from Vans Warped Tour, Coachella, SXSW, Sundance, Bonnaroo, Afropunk, Life is Beautiful, Global Citizen and others festivals are taking part this year.
Michael McDonald once described it as one of the most exciting events in Santa Barbara.
"It recognizes and honors those who infuse our community with enthusiasm for artistic endeavor and cultural awareness," said McDonald.
On the first day alone, FestForums President Laurie Kirby curated panels entitled; "State of the Industry," "What Actually Matters (That No One Tells You) About Producing Festivals," "Breaking Barriers: Women in the Festival Industry," "What's Cooking? Food & Beverage Festivals," Fans First:Harnessing the Power of Volunteers to Elevate Your Event," "The Art of Talent Booking & Artist Relations," "Off the Wall: 30 Years of Vans Warped Tour," and "What Sports Leagues and Festivals Can Learn From Each Other."
FestForums honored Jeff "Skunk" Baxter of Doobie Brothers and Steely Dan fame and Kevin Lyman from the Vans Warped tour, and emerging artist Hunter Hawkins and other luminaries at an awards ceremony at SOhO Restaurant & Music Venue on Wednesday.
Baxter played a set with a large band and Kenny Loggins helped Hunter Hawkins open her showcase.
More will follow on Thursday and Friday.
Your News Channel will have a wrap up of the event this weekend.
For more information visit https://festforums.com
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