But the muddy, soggy conditions that dropped a half-inch of rain on Joe Rowell Park did keep many away, and attendance was much less than the thousands the all-day music festival typical brings in. Actual attendance numbers were not available.
“When the sun breaks out later, people will decide to come for the afternoon bands,” said Scott Clow, a member of Greater Dolores Action, which puts on the annual fundraiser. “I hope people keep buying tickets!”
The rain stopped.
In the afternoon, The Porter Draw, a rock-blues band, and Pimps of Joytime, a funk band from the Front Range, took the stage under a partly blue sky.
The crowd swelled, and many in the audience danced in the grass while clutching cold beers.
“The weather is a bit soggy, but the spirits of everybody are really bright. It’s cool to be here,” said Kevin Kwiatkowski, of Durango. He and his wife, Jen, come out every year for the festival. “It’s great to see all the wonderful bands and vendors,” he said. “The music has been awesome, and a big thanks to all of the volunteers for another great year!”
Scott Cooper, superintendent of Dolores Schools, was emcee of the event. The morning session was “cold, with just a handful of people shivering in the audience,” he said.
But the mood lifted after the rain stopped, and the temperatures climbed into the 50s.
“This community has a lot of heart, and we appreciate you!” Cooper said to cheers.
The Gypsy Wagon Side Stage had a good crowd all day. Liver Down the River played a strong bluegrass set featuring crisp banjo and mandolin rifts with clear lyrics.
On the main stage, the Afro Beatniks defied the storm by cranking up the volume and urging the crowd on.
“Come out and dance to warm up,” they implored. “When we see your energy, it gives us energy, and we will return it.”
The audience obliged, and one “festifarian” spent much of his time dancing and wallowing in the mud, Woodstock-style.
“The organizers did a stellar job pulling together a huge event that brings visitors from all over the Four Corners to our town,” said Rocky Moss, director of the Dolores Chamber and Visitors Center. “We’re look forward to supporting this event again next year.”