Editor's note: This story is part of Southwest Michigan's Second Wave's On the Ground Kalamazoo series. 

Please scroll through the carousel above for more photos. All photos are by Fran Dwight.


The 30th Annual Blues Fest returned to its birthplace at the Arcadia Creek Festival Site on Saturday, July 27. This year's theme was Blues in the Zoo and featured a lineup of six bands: The Out of Favor Boys (a festival stalwart), JR Clark Band, Mandalyn and the Hunters, The Jimmy's, Nikki Hill with Laura Chavez, and Little Ed and the Blue Imperials. Heads were nodding and feet were tapping at this year's performances, sponsored by the Kalamazoo Valley Blues Association which is committed to "keeping the Blues alive!"

Fran DwightThe Out of Favor Boys, a Blues Fest staple, have been performing since 2003.

Fran DwightThe 2024 Blues Fest drew old timers and newcomers at its 30th year on Saturday.
Fran DwightNikki Hill with Laura Chavez performed at the Kalamazoo Blues Fest.
Fran DwightKalamazoo's Out of Favor Boys have been performing at the Blues Fest since its inception.
Fran DwightBlues Fest returned to its launching spot at Arcadia Creek Festival Site.
Fran DwightNikki Hill with Laura Chavez performed at the Kalamazoo Blues Fest.
Fran DwightThe JR Clark Band performed at this year's Kalamazoo Blues Fest.
Fran DwightMandalyn and the Hunters performed at this year's Blues Fest.


Fran DwightLittle Ed and the Blue Imperials performed at this year's Blues Fest.

Fran DwightMandalyn and the Hunters performed at this year's Blues Fest.
Fran Dwight
Fran DwightLittle Ed and the Blue Imperials performed at this year's Blues Fest.