Are you suffering from Cheatfest withdrawal?  Friends of the Cheat is excited to announce a Summer Send-Off Concert to be held at the Cheat River Festival site in Albright on Saturday, August 25th!

We are as excited as this little guy for the Summer Send-Off Concert!

The lineup includes something for everyone!  Live music will start at 5pm with Virginia-based singer songwriter Andrew McKnight.  Andrew’s finger picking style and thoughtful lyrics will set the stage for a great night of live, local music.

Next up, The Sugar Foot Stompers will grace the Cheatfest stage for the first time and get everyone on their feet with their upbeat New Orleans style jazz.

Local favorites and Cheatfest veterans The Halftime String Band will keep the crowd moving with songs from their new CD, Are We There Yet?  Big thanks to the band for, once again, donating their musical talents in support of FOC’s work.

The Halftime String Band at Cheatfest 2012.

Finally, Preston County-born, From the Hip, will close out the evening with high-energy newgrass.  The band features two FOC Board members and other long-time FOC supporters.

Morgantown Brewing Company and Thaibilly Kitchen will be offering delicious, affordable food including a vegetarian option.  Craft wine by the bottle will be available from The Broken Tractor Winery.  BYOB–but please avoid glass if possible.  Bring a blanket or chair and a friend!  Free parking is available on-site.  Enter via Beech Run Road through Teter’s Campground.

FOC will have merchandise for sale in the Eloise Morgan Milne Pavilion including the last batch of 2012 festival tees and hillbilly wineglasses.  A limited number of art, craft, and outdoor goods vendors have also been invited.  If you are interested in vending or can volunteer for the event, contact Amanda Pitzer.

Friends of the Cheat is only selling 500 tickets for this exclusive event, so get yours now!  Adult entry is only $10 and kids under 12 are free.  Online ticket sales have ended.  Ticket are available through Friday afternoon at the FOC office in Kingwood and both Black Bear Burritos locations in Morgantown.  Tickets are available at the gate.  Gates will open at 4pm with live music from 5pm-10pm.  FOC and Teter’s Campground are offering a special overnight camping package for $18. Contact Teter’s Campground with questions regarding camping.