ROCKLAND BERGEN MUSIC FESTIVAL

By Kathy Kahn

Blarney Stew had everyoneโ€™s eyes smiling
Rex and the Rockabilly Kings wowed the crowd

Musician Joe Dโ€™Urso started a family-friendly music festival thatโ€™s become a staple of Rockland and neighboring Bergen County since its inception in 2014.

With more than 24 bands playing on two stages, the two-day music festival offered great music, great food and a good time for all who attended. The grounds of the Masonic German Lodge in Tappan are a pleasant setting for the festival, and Mother Nature provided plenty of sunshine (for the most part) the weekend of June 24-25.

RBMF showcased several non-profit vendors who seek volunteers, including Habitat for Humanity Camp Venture, People to People, VCS and Meals on Wheels, among others. It also offered crafts for kids, great food provided by Growler & Grill and a great day to chill out or dance.

When Dโ€™Urso envisioned the music venue, he said at the time he did want something that could be enjoyed by everyone. It certainly seems like heโ€™s achieved, with the help of local businesses and friends, to achieve just that.

โ€œThis is such an exciting event,โ€ said Rockland ARCโ€™s Esther Schulman. โ€œSince Joe Dโ€™Urso started this festival four years ago, Rockland now has an annual arts event in the summer thatโ€™s great for locals and for Hudson Valley visitors.โ€

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