This Labor Day weekend marks a remarkable milestone in the jam-band world, the 25th Anniversary of əkoostik hookah. Formed in 1991, this Columbus, Ohio based band was hugely influential on many of the bands that have emerged over the last two decades.
Original member Dave Katz explains the importance of this anniversary: “Twenty-five years is a long time to be doing anything. With rock bands, only a fraction make it, so to get to this point in our career is really special. It’s very humbling, and we feel very lucky that people still enjoy our music. Trends come and go, and we’re still here. That shows what we’ve created is time tested. There is a lot to be proud of!”
To celebrate, the band has pulled together an incredible line-up of national and up-and-coming bands for their Fall Hookahville, which runs from September 2nd through 4th, 2016. Produced by AlchemyHouse Presents, the festivities include three days of live music from over two dozen national and regional bands, including Zach Deputy, Tropidelic, Subterranean, Glostik Willy, Vibe & Direct, Blue Moon Soup, Elementree Livity Project, and more. Members of əkoostik hookah are performing five sets themselves, including two with former members John Mullins and Ed McGee. Both John and Ed will also be performing solo sets as well.
Freekbass, another one of this year’s featured performers, recalls the history and influence Hookahville had on him: “Growing up, Hookahville was always a magical place. As a musician you would hear about it, and always wanted to play there. I am very honored and excited to be a part of the 25 Year Anniversary show. Me and the fellas will be ready to tear the roof off and bring in the funk for the next 25!”
This year’s Hookahville returns home to Frontier Ranch in Pataskala, Ohio, located just outside of Columbus. There the rolling hills and woods provide the perfect setting for camping, music, and fun for hundreds of music lovers and their families over the holiday weekend.
Festival-goers will enjoy a food and retail vending, workshops, yoga, live art and even an on-site Frisbee golf course. Much attention has been directed towards improving the porta potties and shower facilities. The organizers at AlchemyHouse Presents and əkoostik hookah are collaborating to ensure that this festival is one for the history books!
Tickets to the festival are still available at the gate, which accepts cash. General admission is $115, and VIP $190. Early bird on Thursday September 1st is only an additional $20 fee. For more information on tickets and camping, click here.
Celebrating one of Ohio’s most iconic original bands is the perfect way to end the summer festival season and make the most of a long holiday weekend!