Entertains, builds momentum
Story by Eryn Ellard
Photos by Meghan Frondorf and Mackenzie Free
What began the day as a fall festival turned into an unforgettable concert by evening, entertaining crowds throughout despite an uncooperative Mother Nature at times.
It was Greensport Marina’s inaugural Rocking the Banks of Greensport music festival, debuting Oct. 30, and it did not disappoint for those who turned out. Headlined by Confederate Railroad, Sweet Tea Trio and $tillbroke bands, it was an ideal venue for a memorable evening, even with colder weather and periods of rain coming in.
Music, lights, plenty of food and beverages and a lakeside view, it had all the makings of a destination point that should see crowds return and grow, especially since organizers are planning to move it to a warmer weather month.
The place
Nestled in the rolling hills of Ashville along the banks of Neely Henry Lake lies Greensport Marina, a sprawling family-owned venue that draws in tourists and regulars alike. Greensport is now home to almost 100 RV spaces with hookups and high-speed internet access.
Owner and marketing specialist Stephanie Evans said the marina is at 90% capacity during peak season weekdays and 100% for peak season weekends. It features an in-ground pool, beach area and large pavilion used for events and weddings.
When she and her husband began running the marina in 2020, she wanted to upgrade amenities, such as the pool and pavilion addition, that would be home to a secure and safe family-friendly environment.
Making it happen
Planning for Rocking the Banks of Greensport began in early July with securing the musical talent. “We wanted a lot of energy and excitement,” Evans said. Longtime musician and family friend, Johnny Adams, with the popular band, $tillbroke, helped to secure contracts for the bands and equipment.
After the bands were secured, it was nonstop planning for the event. “Every day was consumed by preparing, advertising and planning from that point forward along with the marina’s normal business operations,” Evans said. Local radio stations along with social media helped get the word out about the concert and fall festival. There was a costume contest, and over 50 vendors were in attendance – peddling everything from crafts, one-of-a-kind gifts, and of course, food trucks were in abundance.
The weather on Halloween weekend turned out to be less than kind, but Confederate Railroad, $tillbroke and Sweet Tea Trio still rocked for the crowds that came out to enjoy the concert.
“Despite the extreme cold and rain, we still had a large number of people to show up and enjoy,” Evans said. “It also gave us the opportunity to see what worked great and areas we need to improve on with a large number of attendees.” Evans noted that those in attendance thoroughly enjoyed the entertainment.
Room to grow
Also located on-site is a large open field that is gently sloped, easily setting up as a beautiful, natural amphitheater. Evans noted that space could hold 10,000 people comfortably. “Our ultimate goal is to provide a beautiful venue with high-end performers, and to attract people to come within a three-hour radius of the marina. “We want every event, large or small, to be enjoyable so that everyone will want to return for the next.”
There are plans to hold the second annual Rocking the Banks of Greensport in June of 2022 rather than in the fall. One of their ultimate goals is to one day have Kid Rock perform.
St. Clair County Tourism Coordinator Blair Goodgame said events like Rocking the Banks are a crucial part of local tourism in the area and are vital to improving the quality of life in St. Clair County. “Events like these bring new people to the area, and we know once they visit, they will want to come back again and again,” Goodgame said.
Looking forward to 2022, Goodgame said she can’t wait for the June concert at Greensport. “With the summer heat and kids out of school, even more people will be looking to road trip to places like Greensport.” Goodgame also noted that there are also so many other things to do at Greensport, such as kayaking, picnicking, sampling local cuisine, among other things. “That’s the beauty of St. Clair – you always get more than you expect here.”
