Bradenton Blues Festival is just part of Blues Weekend

It's not just the weekend of the Bradenton Blues Festival. It's Bradenton Blues Weekend. There are great blues events happening around town Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Here's a look:

Blues Appetizer Concert

7 p.m. Friday, Riverwalk Pavilion

The always popular free concert features area blues greats. This year, the music comes from the Betty Fox Band and RJ Howson. This is also your last chance to get blues festival tickets for $30 -- they're $40 at the gate.

Deja Blues in the Blues Lounge

7-11 p.m. Friday, the Brickyard behind O'Brick's Irish Pub & Martini Bar, 427 Old Main St., Bradenton.

Live music from blues festival artist Larry Garner, an open bar and great food. Benefits the Women's Resource Center of Bradenton. $150. Call 941-747-6797.

Tarpon Pointe Blues

7 p.m.-midnight Saturday, Tarpon Pointe Grill & Tiki Bar, 801 Riverside Drive E., Bradenton.

A post-festival celebration with music from the Sean Chambers Band. Information at tarponpointegrill.com.

Gospel Blues Brunch at SOMA

Noon-2 p.m. Sunday, SOMA, 1401 Manatee Ave. W.

Great food, and music by gospel blues performer Shantel Norman. $25. 941-567-4001

-- Marty Clear

This story was originally published December 2, 2015 at 7:20 PM with the headline "Bradenton Blues Festival is just part of Blues Weekend ."