Ellwood City Band Bash to Benefit Fourth of July Fireworks

The Ellwood City Band Bash is back!!!

This year’s event will be held on Saturday, March 19, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Koehler Brewery Pub.

“I’m super excited to be bringing the band bash back to Koehler Brewery where it started,” said event organizer Eric Rayner. “Back in February 2020 right before the pandemic hit we had what we called the fireworks fundraiser which later became the band bash. Because of the pandemic we haven’t been back to Koehler since for this event and we focused on our outdoor events we do in the summer and fall. Although we’re super excited and proud of the work we put in to develop our outdoor music festival we’re really excited to bring it back to Koehlers.”

In 2019, Rayner became known as the guy who saved the fireworks when he refused to accept an end to the traditional and beloved fireworks show. Rayner rallied the community with a goal of raising $5,000 to save the display. Not only did he meet the goal … he more than doubled it, raising $11,230.

Rayner has been raising money to keep the fireworks going ever since, even in the absence of the festival. He said this event is vital.

“We are really hoping for a good turnout at this event given our last two events outdoors were heavily impacted by rain we really need this event to be a success,” he said.

Rayner said as many things are rising in cost, so are fireworks.

“I just spoke with Zambellis last week and was made aware of the extreme rise and cost for fireworks and with summer approaching quickly we really need this event to be successful if we want any hope of having fireworks this year.”

The band lineup includes:

• 11 to Noon: The Leftovers
• Noon to 1: Steel Mill Rising
• 1:30 to 2:30: Zakk Bissell
• 3 to 4: Brianna Wilkinson
• 4:30 to 5:30: Para Bellum
• 6 to 7: The D-Tour Band
• 7:30 to 8:30 Gypsy Lane
• 9 to 10: PJ Rillo & The Western Spirit

“I’m excited that we have some new bands that we haven’t worked with before on this event,” Rayner said. “We’ve always prided ourselves on getting The best local talent and also pulling great talent from outside the Tri-County area. I’m really excited to see this lineup.”

In addition to the music band bash goers can enjoy food, raffles, free giveaways, and craft beer is available for purchase.

The cost of the event is $10 for an all day pass and proceeds benefit the fireworks.

Rayner added that additional parking for the event will be available at Barry’s ice cream