On Saturday, August 27, MoonTower Music Festival will once again take over the fair grounds at Masterson Station Park. Now in it’s third year, MoonTower looks to keep expanding the musical talent on stage, while fostering the easy-going, family-friendly vibe that is prominent throughout the event. Previously, we reported on the big names topping this year’s diverse lineup. Looking at the festival as a whole, there are a lot of good changes happening at MoonTower this year, here’s a peek at new things to expect at this year’s event.

The most noticeable update this year will be stage placement. Last year, the Moon and Tower Stages were about 100 yards apart. This year, the stages will be next to one another. Essentially, in order to view the next band playing, all you need to do is simply pivot 45 degrees and you’ll be at the next show! Less walking, more music FTW!

Another prominent change this year will be to the grounds itself. If you recall last year, there was an abundance of open and unused space once you ventured outside the stage-viewing area, making for longer walks to restrooms, vendors and the VIP area. The park, which can accommodate up to 20,000 fans, will be downsized in on order to create a more intimate feel for the event. This will bring all the facilities closer to all the action happening on the newly-placed stages.

It just wouldn’t be a Kentucky festival without bourbon. Thankfully, Wild Turkey is now a sponsor meaning in addition to wine and Ky Ale beers that are always offered, you’ll be able to purchase bourbon this year, including bourbon slushies and bourbon lemonade! Ky Ale will also be premiering a new beer on site, WKU’s College Heights Ale, the first university-based beer in Kentucky.

While much of this article focuses on the updated logistics, aesthetics and vendor options, it’s important to note the shift in the lineup this year. For the first time, MoonTower will not be headlined by Moon Taxi. Instead, the lineup features bands providing previously-unheard sounds from MoonTower. For instance, The Floozies will bring their unique brand of live-tronica, Manchester Orchestra will provide harder, progressive indie rock and JR JR will provide their fun, poppy sounds. Check out a recent live performance of their new single “Gone” which is sure to get the crowd dancing:

Another important aspect of MoonTower is it’s vendor qualifications: all vendors must agree to their 0% waste policy meaning every item from the beer cups to your utensils will be recyclable or compostable. All food vendors will also serve Kentucky Proud-only items.

MoonTower is brought to you by LexEffect, the event group that also produces progressive local events such as the Bourbon Social and the Chew Dinner Series. Tickets are selling fast and can be purchased from the MoonTower website. There, you can also find a full list of necessary festival information.

Also, be sure to check back after the festival for Dead Audio’s full review of the event!