For almost ten years, JerryFest has taken place in the center of Five Points Columbia, SC. It celebrates the life and legacy of Grateful Dead’s lead guitarist/singer, Jerry Garcia. Garcia played an influential role in developing the hippie culture in the 1960s and 1970s. His influence still shines today in the heart of the Columbia community.
Vendors from all over Columbia gathered on Oct. 2 for Five Points’ annual JerryFest. There were a variety of artists, food trucks, musicians and sponsors in attendance. The event had free admission and went on all day from 2 PM-10 PM.
The bands that performed were the Big Sky Revival, Red Shack Pickers, Caboose is Dead, Stillhouse and the Columbia Community Drum Circle.
The live music gave for an eclectic, worry-free atmosphere open for all ages to enjoy. JerryFest is a family and pet-friendly event that anyone can walk in and join.
A blue Grateful Dead bear danced around the venue as kids followed it around and danced freely. Families of all different backgrounds came together to live in the moment and dance like no one was watching.
For recurring guests like Catherine Allgrim and Brandon McCray, JerryFest is a fun family environment that is safe for everyone involved. Allgrim performed last year and said, “Wear your favorite, most comfortable clothes and just enjoy it."
“It’s all a homage to Jerry Garcia, what he did for music and just pioneering the jam and improvisational movement of jam music," said McCray. “There's plenty of security here to make sure everyone is safe, everyone is having a good time, and treating everyone with kindness.”
Local vendor Kylee Caulder from the small business Grizzly Belle has set up shop at JerryFest twice. The business prepares for the event by advertising on Facebook and Instagram, but mainly through friendly word of mouth.
Caulder’s favorite part about JerryFest is meeting new people. “I think it brings community together. It’s great, it’s a big peace event and everyone just loves each other," Caulder said.
Hope Barrett spent her third year at JerryFest selling jewelry and enjoying the scenery. Her business, Something Special, sells a mix of antique and new jewelry that caters to all styles. She considers her booth a treasure hunt as customers can dig through the pile of jewelry and find what they like.
Barrett says that JerryFest means fun and is somewhere for people to relax and hang out. “It’s about love, and it’s not about color, it’s just about love and supporting each other,” Barrett said.
