It’s that time of year again, when we feel a little restless in our flip-flops, when we can sense the approaching beat of one of the essential live music experiences you can have this side of the Mississippi. Yep, it’s almost time for Sloss Fest (a.k.a. the Sloss Music and Arts Festival). And, as in recent years, Sloss Tech leads right into it. So, do something nice for your head; then put on your boogie shoes and do something fun for your feet.
Now, if you’re new to Sloss Fest and / or Sloss Tech, let’s get you up to speed. Sloss Tech, which this year takes place on July 13th, is a gathering of speakers and workshops designed to make your brain dance. This year, our headliners include Bozoma (Boz) St. John, former Chief Brand Officer of Uber, now Chief Marketing Officer for Endeavor, and Payne Lindsey, CEO of Tenderfoot TV, and host of the hit podcast, Up and Vanished. As if that isn’t enough, you’ll also have the opportunity to hear from Bill Smith, founder of Shipt, Birmingham’s young, new mayor, Randall Woodfin, and a number of other notable speakers. Bottom line: you’ll not find a more inspiring event, and when you’re done with it, you’ll be ready to rock.
Once you’ve treated your brain to some Sloss Tech, it’s time to kick it to live music in a venue like none other at Sloss Music and Arts Festival (Sloss Fest), which takes place on July 14th and 15th. Where else can you shake your bootie to a lineup with top headliners such as Chris Stapleton, Arcade Fire, or Jason Isbell, and take in a host of new and emerging bands in the environs of a 19th century pig iron foundry? While you’re there, channel your inner Travolta / Newton-John at the Silent Disco, a dance gig where disco is piped straight into the dance center of your brain via wireless headphones. Yep, that’s right, everybody’s dancing to the beat, but, wear the gear if you expect to hear. You’ll also definitely want to take a stroll through the beer garden; like they say, sometimes, you just have to stop and smell the hops. And, if beer’s not your jam, check out The Copper Lounge, presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka. Also, in addition to live music, there’ll be a live iron pouring by Sloss Metal Arts, which, in and of itself is worth the trip. And, really we’re just scratching the surface of all that’s going on that weekend. If you really want to get dialed in and plan two or three days you’ll never forget, make sure to check out sites of Sloss Tech and Sloss Fest. The Sloss Fest site does a great job of pointing you to many of the great places to eat in Birmingham (after all, Birmingham is most definitely the “dinner table of the South”) and the various bars, night spots, and activities.
So, set aside a long weekend – July 13, 14, and 15 – and treat your mind and feet to something truly special.