The Miners Foundry Cultural Center is thrilled to invite everyone to a vibrant celebration of music and community at the 28th Annual Jerry Bash. This beloved, family-friendly gathering will take place on Saturday, August 3rd, in the picturesque Nevada City Pioneer Park, honoring the enduring legacy of Jerry Garcia, the iconic frontman of the Grateful Dead.
Jerry Bash has become a cornerstone of the Nevada City summer calendar, a joyful event that perfectly embodies the spirit of community. Gretchen Bond, Miners Foundry Executive Director, fondly recalls the event’s origins, “When The Deadbeat’s drummer Gary Campus approached me years ago about hosting Jerry Bash in Pioneer Park, it was an immediate yes. This annual celebration in Nevada City Pioneer Park truly captures the heart of our community – it’s a wonderfully happy event to be part of.”
The genesis of Jerry Bash dates back to the passing of Jerry Garcia on August 9, 1995. Local band The Deadbeats, deeply moved by the loss of this musical legend, organized the first Jerry Bash in 1996. This free concert in Pioneer Park was a heartfelt tribute to Garcia, a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer whose music touched millions. Now in its 28th year, Jerry Bash remains a highly anticipated annual party, bringing together music enthusiasts, friends, and neighbors in the idyllic setting of Nevada City Pioneer Park.
Nestled along the banks of Deer Creek, Nevada City Pioneer Park provides a stunning natural backdrop for this musical celebration. On August 3rd, attendees will be treated to a day of live music on the park’s bandshell, complemented by a variety of food and drinks, arts and crafts vendors, and other attractions. Local brews will be on tap courtesy of BrewBilt Brewing Company.
Miners Foundry Cultural Center presents the 28th Annual Jerry Bash in Nevada City Pioneer Park
Beyond the headlining act, The Deadbeats, the Jerry Bash lineup boasts an impressive array of artists. Music lovers can look forward to performances by Kelly Flemming, Kellie Garmire & Friends exploring “The Roots of the Grateful Dead,” Caltucky “Remembering Old & in the Way,” and Wolf Jett delivering their signature “Cosmic Mountain Music.” The festival promises a full day of entertainment, with gates opening at 1:30 p.m. and the final performance concluding at 10 p.m. For those seeking an enhanced experience, V.I.P tickets are available, offering reserved tables, access to a V.I.P. lounge, a no-host bar, appetizers, and exclusive entry to the Nevada City pool.
Celebrating The Deadbeats’ 30th Anniversary at Nevada City Pioneer Park
This year’s Jerry Bash holds extra significance as it also marks the 30th anniversary of The Deadbeats. Formed on August 4, 1994, during an open mic night at the Mad Dogs and Englishmen Pub in Nevada City, The Deadbeats quickly became a local sensation. Their debut performance filled the venue and spilled out onto the street. For three decades, fans have enthusiastically followed The Deadbeats, drawn to their spirited interpretations of the Grateful Dead’s extensive songbook. The band masterfully balances improvisation with a deep respect for the original songs, creating a joyful live music experience that resonates with Nevada County audiences and beyond. They have graced stages at music festivals throughout Northern California, spreading their infectious energy and love for the Dead’s music.
Fans enjoying The Deadbeats at Jerry Bash in Nevada City Pioneer Park
Tom Menig, guitarist and frontman for The Deadbeats, explains their approach, “The Deadbeats were always inspired by the spirit of the music, aiming for fun rather than a mere imitation of the Grateful Dead, which aligns perfectly with their original mantra.” The current lineup includes Tom Menig and his brother, Eric Menig (bass), Peter Wilson (guitar), Rob Kopp and Gary Campus (drums), Glenn Tucker (keyboards), and Jenn Knapp (vocals). To commemorate this milestone anniversary, past members of The Deadbeats have been invited to join the current band on stage during Jerry Bash, promising a memorable performance for long-time fans and newcomers alike at Nevada City Pioneer Park.
Adding to the excitement, special guests will join The Deadbeats’ set, including Paul Kamm of Achilles Wheel, a beloved local guitarist and original member of the band. Alumni drummers will also participate in a highly anticipated drum jam, paying homage to Mickey Hart and Planet Drum.
David Lloyd, Miners Foundry Program Manager and a dedicated Grateful Dead fan, vividly remembers his first Jerry Bash experience shortly after moving to Nevada City. “Attending Jerry Bash in 2022 as a fan was incredible. I was amazed that Nevada County hosted such a fantastic Jerry Garcia-focused event annually,” Lloyd shared. He is particularly enthusiastic about Caltucky’s tribute to “Old & in the Way,” the iconic bluegrass group featuring Jerry Garcia on banjo. Lloyd recounts, “Their record was one of the first bluegrass albums I owned and really drew me into the genre.”
Kelly Fleming and Kellie Garmire, joined by Pete Grant and Juliet Gobert, will delve into the blues, folk, and rock influences that shaped the Grateful Dead’s 30-year musical journey. Returning by popular demand is Wolf Jett, who first captivated the Jerry Bash audience in 2022 with their unique blend of folk, blues, and Americana, which they aptly describe as “cosmic mountain music.” Lloyd notes, “Wolf Jett made a strong impression and we are thrilled to welcome them back.”
For more information and to purchase tickets for this exceptional celebration at Nevada City Pioneer Park, please visit minersfoundry.org.
Know & Go
- Event: 28th Annual Jerry Bash
- Date: Saturday, August 3rd
- Time: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Gates open at 1:30 PM
- Location: Nevada City Pioneer Park, 421 Nimrod Street, Nevada City
Get Tickets!
- General Admission (Advance): $30
- General Admission (Gate): $35
- Youth General Admission (16 & Under): $10 (available at the gate only)
- Babes in Arms: Free
VIP Experience Add On | $120 (Does NOT include admission ticket)
- Reserved picnic table for 6 under the trees
- VIP Lounge with private no-host bar
- Complimentary hors d’oeuvres | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
- Pioneer Park Pool Access | 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
- Note: VIP Experience Upgrade requires a separate Jerry Bash admission ticket.
Tickets are available for purchase online or through the Miners Foundry Box Office: Tuesday – Friday | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM | (530) 265-5040.
