Excursion: Big Spring Jam

We just returned from Huntsville, Alabama.

Just about every fall we visit one of my best friends, an old college room mate. We don't see each other that much, maybe twice a year if we are lucky. In recent years we have attended Big Spring Jam in Huntsville, Alabama. This year we didn't go to the festival, the weather was too threatening with heavy thunderstorms and Tornado Warnings, so we just hung out.
Held in September the name confuses me and apparently a lot of other people. It turns out that the event is named after The Big Spring Park which is in turn is named for the Big Spring. The park is located in the center of Huntsville, adjacent to the Von Braun Center. The festival is held in the park and the surrounding area.


Its sort of a mini Jazz Fest. In 2005 it was held Friday, September 23rd through Sunday, September 25th. The line up is usually very eclectic, including a lot of old favorites, southern musicians and local groups.

Herman's Hermit's and Al Green were there, along with Travis Tritt and Charlie Daniels.

There were New Orleans musicians there too, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band and bunch Cajun bands, Steve Riley & The Mamou Playboys,

C.J. Chenier & the Rod Hot Louisiana Band and
Lil' Brian & The Zydeco Travelers.

We camped out at one stage and had a great time. Before and after the music we had a chance to refresh our spirits with longtime friends. It was a welcomed respite in our Post-Katrina turmoil.

This coincided with Hurricane Rita and opening of parts of New Orleans. We had arranged a crew of workers to clean out our house, starting Monday. We headed back to New Orleans for my third trip and her second one since the storm flood.