COTTONWOOD FALLS — The Emma Chase Friday Night Music Jam is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a special night of live music and festivities.
The celebration will be held at Prairie Past Times on Friday, November 1st from 7pm to 10pm, bringing together musicians and fans for a night filled with acoustic tunes and community spirit.
The gathering has been held since 1999 and provides free, family-friendly entertainment to both locals and tourists, drawing thousands of people from Kansas, the United States and even other countries, according to a written release. Visitors are gathering. Held on the first, third, and sometimes fifth Friday of each month, the music jam has become a beloved tradition in the heart of the Flint Hills.
Annie Wilson, who coordinates the event, says the appeal lies in the authenticity of the music.
“People tell us there’s nothing else like it,” Wilson said.
Local musicians will perform a variety of genres, including country, bluegrass, gospel, folk and original songs by Flint Hills songwriters. Occasionally, specially released jams feature classic rock or vintage country with electric instrumentation, but the majority of performances are acoustic.
The Friday Night Music event is managed by a group of dedicated volunteers, including Wilson, Rodney Bates, Howard Taliaferro, and Dave Simming. Donations from participants will help cover rent, equipment, and advertising costs.
“We are so grateful to the musicians who share their talents with us, and to the best audiences in the world who are so attentive and appreciative,” Wilson said.
The event is usually held indoors at Prairie Pastimes surrounded by local arts and crafts, but when the weather is nice we move it outdoors to the Flint Hills, near the historic Chase County Courthouse. The performance will take place in front of the symphony in the gallery.
The Emma Chase Friday Night Music Jam has received numerous awards over the years, including being named one of the “Eight Wonders of Kansas Custom” by the Kansas Sampler Foundation. It is also featured on the Kansas Bucket List by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism. magazine.
Check out our Facebook page for more information and updates on upcoming events.
