FORT LORAMIE — The lineup has been set for the annual White Oak Jamboree, which is planned for Friday and Saturday, Aug. 12-13, in Fort Loramie.
The jamboree kicks off Friday at 7 p.m. when Kaitlyn Schmit and Jeannie Lowe take the stage. Naked Karate Girls will be performing at 9 p.m.
Saturday’s lineup begins with Mark Cantwil’s performance at 4 p.m. Kevin & the Others take the stage at 5 p.m. Saw Creek will be performing at 7:30 p.m. The jamboree concludes with My Sister Sarah at 10 p.m.
“Some of the people we’ve had here in the past,” said Kevin Moore, White Oak Jamboree chairman. “Saw Creek is a staple for us.”
Moore said My Sister Sarah and Naked Karate Girls are “both big party bands.”
“A lot of weather-resistant young people attend the jamboree,” said Moore. “We want it to be a fun party for them. We want them to get up and dance.”
Kaitlyn Schmit, he said, is an up and coming artist who he’s excited about having at the jamboree.
“She recently just got a call back for a second interview for ‘The Voice.’ she’s a very good singer and very talented,” said Moore.
Moore said they also take recommendations from the crowd on who they would like to see at future jamborees.
“We’re always looking for new bands,” said Moore. “We also try to rotate bands from year to year so we can keep it fresh every year. We’re always looking for recommendations.”
Because of the venue is small — between 1,800 to 2,200 people attend the event annually — Moore said they try to find bands that have local followings.
“We are a small concert and it’s very manageable,” said Moore. “We don’t have any problems here. People are welcome to bring in their own coolers, but we have drinks and food for sale also.”It’s a very relaxed, laid back weekend. We just want people to have fun.
“I’m real excited about the lineup,” he said. “It’s going to be a good relaxing weekend. Come out and celebrate before school starts.”
Presale tickets are $15. Tickets at the gate are $25. Tickets are good for both days of the jamboree. Camping is available for $30.
The jamboree started in 1969 when 12 couples and their families purchased land to create their own campground retreat. Over the years, a building was built, a barn and state were constructed.
They decided to start a camping weekend with live music and the jamboree was born. this is the 28th year for the jamboree.
There are still 11 of the original families involved with White Oak, said Moore.
“Many of the original family members have passed on,” said Moore. “Now it’s their children who are continuing the jamboree. All of the organizers of the event are members of the families.
The White Oak Campground is located at 2988 Loy Road, Fort Loramie.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.whiteoakjamboree.com.
