City crews and volunteers are putting the final touches on Oakdale Park and getting ready to host the 41st Smoky Hill River Festival this weekend.

Salina’s signature arts and entertainment event kicks off Thursday night in Oakdale Park.

Festival Jam will feature waves of musical styles as 16-bands move on and off the Eric Stein stage.

The Big Band Dance will be back again as well, Friday night inside the Tony’s Pizza Events Center.

Along with the mainstays, there will be plenty of new things this year.

Arts Education Coordinator Stacy Ash tells KSAL News is excited about the entertainment this year. She tells KSAL News that the headliners won’t disappoint. They include:

They include:
Friday night- Jakubi -Back by popular demand, Jakubi’s unique flavor comes from an irresistible combination of guitars, hip-hop beats and sailing synth rhythms. Flawlessly melding the sounds of a talk box  one minute and reggae-inspired guitar the next, the band’s infectious, experimental songs are guaranteed to get everyone dancing

Saturday night-The Delta Saints – Steeped in rock n rolls building blocks  country, R&B, soul and gospel  The Delta Saints explore influences like Jack White, The Black Keys, My Morning Jacket, Band of Horses and Led Zeppelin. With a hard-hitting live show, this group will get you on your feet.

Sunday final act – The Brady Weston Band-The Brady Weston Band is pushing the envelope for country music and rock n roll. They have a unique blend of genres including delta blues, classic county and energetic rock that has had regional audience singing their praises. This group will provide powerful guitar licks and honest, heart-warming lyrics in a performance that will leave you in awe- a great way to close the Festival.

More than 100 performers and 130 artists will be in Salina throughout the weekend for the 41st Smoky Hill River  Festival