Traveling country music festival Boots in the Park saddled up for its debut at the Queen Mary Festival Grounds in Long Beach on Saturday, March 23, with lots of cold beer, music and line dancing.
The fest managed to dodge the rain that fell earlier in the day, but gusty winds still caused some of the food and music barricades to sway precariously. A few unfortunate souls even found themselves navigating what used to be a gate that sat on the ground while waiting in lines. But, Boots in the Park’s latest location, situated seaside along the water, brought cooler breezes and fresh ocean air that complemented the day.
When comparing Boots in the Park’s past editions in Norco and San Diego, it’s evident that the grounds in Long Beach, with a view of the Queen Mary, are significantly smaller. However, this festival had a more laid back appeal and ample room for lounging. With grassy areas, trees for shade and bleachers for sitting, attendees had plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the show.
“There’s something undeniably special about Southern California, and I’ll never deny that it holds a special place in my heart,” country singer-songwriter Chris Janson said as he took the stage. His words seemed to resonate with crowd, setting the tone for his hourlong performance.
“You always know how to party out here and we’re about to get one started like its Woodstock,” he added, just before launching into “Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get,” his newest single, which debuted on the Country Billboard Charts just last week.
While Lee Brice was billed as the night’s headliner, along with performances from LoCash, Leaving Austin and Heidi Merill, it was Janson who stole the show. The Nashville, Tenn. artist delivered a powerhouse performance, treating the audience straight away to hits “Buy Me A Boat,” “Every Day of the Week” and “Good Vibes.”
But Janson’s most climactic moments came when he engaged with the crowd, sharing personal anecdotes about his connection to Southern California. He expressed gratitude for the region, considering it a second home. He even delighted fans by revealing his admiration for artists who originated from the state, such as Sublime, Rage Against The Machine and Social Distortion, further enhancing the connection between artist and audience.
“Most of you don’t know this about me, but I originally moved to Nashville to become a songwriter, but I actually got picked up from people in music right here in Los Angeles,” Janson said. “I got on an airplane and flew for the first time in my life to LAX airport and started my songwriting career in Hollywood. Everything in my career began here.”
Janson’s band launched into a cover of “Killing in the Name” by Rage Against The Machine. As the familiar riff echoed through the park, the audience was rocking out in unison with the band.
As “All I Need Is You,” one of his latest singles, played through, Janson had a surprise. Midway through the song, he announced, “I have a very special guest joining us tonight. Please give a warm welcome to my wife, Kelly Lynn,” as she stepped onto the stage, hand in hand with Janson.
He shared with the crowd that the song would never have been created without the inspiration and love he receives from his wife. Another guest suddenly appeared on stage, Janson’s 10-year-old son, Jesse Bo. Together, father and son performed a heartwarming duet of the song, adding a deeply personal touch. He wrapped it up with “The Reel Bass Pro.”
As for headliner Lee Brice, there wasn’t much talking, but the set was packed with fan favorites like “One Of Them Girls,” “Rumor,” “Hard To Love,” “More Beer,” “If You” and “Soul.”
“Boots in the Park,” you always know how to have a real good time,” Brice noted with a laugh. “Before I came out here, I was walking around and saw so many of you with Jell-O shots and beers in hand, it made me want to party with you.”
“But don’t worry, we’re going to have plenty of fun right here on stage tonight,” he continued as the crowd cheered.
It was indeed a party as most fans were were spotted dancing and singing along with adult beverages in hand, despite the hefty $20 price tag at the beer stands.
Country duo LoCash also had a fun set, singing “One Big Country Song,” “I Love This Life” and “I Know Somebody.” They also played a good dose of covers like Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” and “Summer OF ’69” by Bryan Adams.
Another highlight of the festival was the Country Club stage, which was dedicated to line dancing, strategically nestled in the heart of the festival grounds near food trucks for convenient snacking. Whether attendees were newbie dancers or seasoned pros, everyone joined in on the fun as different instructors took the stage each hour to teach new moves. From the Cupid Shuffle to the Church Slap and box steps, dancing was accompanied via classics like Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like A Woman!” For those not inclined to hit the dance floor, watching others boogie was equally entertaining.
“We’ve been waiting a good while for Boots in the Park to finally come here to Long Beach,” Alyssa Kiphen, a resident of Orange County, shared while taking a break from dancing. “It just makes sense to have it in the area. This has to be my 10th Boots in the Park, and this is hands down already our favorite. You can’t beat the fact that we’re by the water, and it feels so welcoming. I hope it’s a continuous tradition here.”
Boots in the Park Long Beach
When: Saturday, March 23
Where: Queen Mary Festival Grounds, Long Beach
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