Blues stars play Bradenton Beach festival

The Bradenton area is a regular stop for lots of the biggest names in blues, who come here to play at festivals or in clubs. But lots of great blues musicians call this area home and perform hereabouts all year long.

You can catch a couple of great locals and one international blues star this weekend at Blues, Brews and BBQ, and all-day festival set for Saturday on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach.

Guitar wizard Sarasota Slim is the headliner, and area favorite Mac McConnell is also on the bill.

If you follow the local music scene you probably know those guys, but you may not have seen Luca Sestak, a young German pianist who mixes boogie-woogie, blues, jazz. His online videos helped him build a following, and now he tours all over Europe and North America.

The live music is the big attraction, but as the event's name indicates there's also going to be plenty of great food and cold beer. (You're welcome to bring blanket and lawn chairs, but no food or drink from outside.)

A silent auction during the live music will offer items from area businesses, plus a two-night stay at the Banana Bay Resort in Marathon Key.

The festival benefits the Food Bank of Manatee.

Details: 5-10 p.m. May 16, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. Tickets: $5 (12 and under free). Information: 941-896-2222, visitbridgestreet.com.

-- Marty Clear

This story was originally published May 14, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Blues stars play Bradenton Beach festival ."