Reaching toward rock stars is a popular way to let them know that, unlike most fans, you appreciate both their musical work and their supple hand skin. Raise the roof with today's Groupon: for $49, you get a music-festival outing to Rifflandia Festival on Sunday, September 25 (a $100 total value). The outing includes:
- One all-day park pass (a $75 value)
- Festival T-shirt (a $25 value)
Held in the Royal Athletic Park, Sunday's festival is open from 12:30 p.m. until 9 p.m.
Started in 2008 with three tents and a stretch of astroturf, Rifflandia Festival has grown into a respectable, vibrant event that draws hip-hop and indie bands both fresh and established. The 2011 festival stages a star-studded lineup, with Sunday headliners such as Blackalicious and De La Soul wooing microphones with velvety lyrics set to hip-hop beats. Up-and-coming performers include Daniel Wesley, whose smooth, reggae-influenced indie hit "Ooo Ohh" is often used to tame the cowlicks out of guitar strings. Lance Herbstrong energizes audiences with electric beats and mixes, and indie rockers Gomez take the stage with confidence that comes from producing seven stellar albums or from finding a bobblehead with your face on it. An essential tool for groupies and lost guitars, the schedule dishes full details on who's playing where.
Within earshot of reverberating amps, a cinema tent screens hip flicks while a beer garden tends to 30 on-tap beers, such as Blue Buck pale ale, Phoenix gold lager, and ginger beer (not included). A variety of vendors quash hunger pangs with steamy plates of sustenance (not included), and wristband bearers may bring in their own meals, though liquids, coolers, picnic baskets, and walk-in freezers are prohibited.