Tauranga ready to party

An entertainment extravaganza catering for the youth of Tauranga is gearing up for its second event with big headline acts confirmed to get the party started.

Summerfest played to 11,000 revellers earlier this year and organisers are hoping to repeat that success in February when Titanium, I am Giant and J Williams take the stage as well as an impressive line-up of local artists.

Creative Tauranga chief executive Tracey Rudduck-Gudsell says the show evolved after they identified concerns from young people regarding the lack of things to do and events for their age group.

She says Summerfest is a family-oriented, alcohol-free, fun day with a firm focus on supporting the development of performing arts' in the Bay of Plenty. The event is on a high and set to become an annual feature after positive feedback from the community about its inaugural showcase.

"It was absolutely fantastic and it was awesome to see families enjoying the bands, entertainment and other activities," Rudduck-Gudsell says. One family had three generations present.

"Afterwards we received a lot of accolades from parents and different schools saying how good it went, which was really encouraging."

Rudduck-Gudsell says Summerfest gives young musicians the chance to be in the limelight.

"We have a plethora of extraordinary young artists who are passionate about music and write their own songs and it's a fabulous opportunity for them to perform alongside big name acts.

"It's a great platform as many of these kids aspire to be musicians and it's wonderful that they can get this experience and rub shoulders with the professionals."

Summerfest will serve up something for everyone.

"It's going to be non-stop sounds all day with everything from hip-hop, R&B;, rock, alternative, pop, folk and urban dance right through to a dance-off."

Targeted at people aged 11 to 17, Summerfest also runs educational campaigns on the day with an emphasis on health, being sunsmart, alcohol and drug abuse, staying safe and the environment.

Tickets are still available at earlybird prices because the event will go on regardless of the weather. "If it's raining bring your wetsuit."

The Fine Print

What: Summerfest 2013

Where: Blake Park Mount Maunganui

When: February 2, 10am 9pm. Early bird tickets still available from Creative Tauranga or www.eventfinder.co.nz , youth $10, adults $20, family of four $40.