Chumuckla will be the place to be this weekend for the BonfireJam.
The third annual event is expecting the best weather yet with temperatures expected to reach the lower 70's for a high and the mid 50's when Gretchen Wilson and Clay Walker take the stage following the Chumuckla Redneck Parade.
Walker was announced on Friday as the new act filling in for Clint Black, who was originally scheduled to be part of the annual winter music festival in Chumuckla.
Black cancelled all of his appearances following the passing of his father early Friday morning.
"We are sorry to hear about the passing of Clint's father and our prayer go out to him and his family," said Joe Lewis, organizer of the BonfireJam. "But we are pleased to have one of county music's finest Clay Walker step in and fill the spot."
For those who are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the holiday, there is no better way to do so than a weekend of great country music and a day of country culture.
Tickets for the two-day event start at under $30 for general admission and a single day pass starts at under $20.
The two-day pass includes your entry to the first ever BonfireJam Shootout, a bull riding and championship calf roping competition so you can RELEASE your INNER COWBOY starting at 1 p.m. on Friday December 7!
Following the rodeo there will be a fireworks show followed by Jana Kramer taking the stage at 9 p.m.
Saturday's festivities will get underway at 1 p.m. with the Chumuckla Redneck Parade on Saturday followed by the BonfireJam featuring Gretchen Wilson and Clay Walker.
“We have premium seats still available so you can enjoy that up-close and personal feel,” said Sunny Moulder, promotions director for the BonfireJam. “Additionally we have Jam Boxes available for that special VIP treatment; with elevated seating platforms and heaters it’s the best way to enjoy the show! Food and drinks are complimentary for Jam Box guests. Oakes Meat Processing is roasting a whole pig and serving up pulled pork and BBQ chicken. If you haven’t experienced Ken & Tonya’s cooking, your in for a treat!”
The BonfireJam itself keeps growing and growing, which has been proved by the fact it will run two-days this year.
"Once again, just as last year, it will be another day of country culture and country music," Lewis said. "We have added more parking and easier access yet again this year. Also, if you are the owner of a RAM truck, you’re in luck! Hill-Kelly Dodge is providing free VIP Parking for any guest who shows up in their RAM Truck! Just look for the “RAM COUNTRY” Parking area.
"We are excited about the growth and are looking forward to things getting bigger and better next year as well.
Clay Walker will take to the stage at 6 p.m. followed by the Redneck Woman Gretchen Wilson at 8 p.m.
To make the night even better there will be Bonfires located on the grounds and a dance floor for you to enjoy the night as well.
“We have to thank everyone who is involved locally making this happen." Lewis said. This wouldn’t be possible if it were not for those like the local media, Santa Rosa Medical Center, Mediacom, Hill-Kelly Dodge, Budweiser, Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce, the Griswold Family, Sandy Wyatt and many others”
For those looking to make a full day of it on Saturday, the Chumuckla Redneck Parade will once again head south on County Road 182.
“Again this year, the Redneck parade will start at Gin Road working its way South on County Road 182, ending up at Salter Road,” Lewis said. “There were no traffic issues experienced last year, but we also hope people understand when you are in the country, it will take some time for traffic to move.”
And one group from the Chumuckla Redneck Parade will get to enjoy the concert if their unit is selected as the "Best Float."
This years theme for parade floats is “Release Your Inner Cowboy”. The winning float will be featured within BFJ concert venue and will receive (4) complimentary tickets to BFJ concert.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: BonfireJam ready to burn Saturday