Music fans filled Seaside Park in Bridgeport over the weekend to take in the sights and sounds of the Soundside Music Festival.
There was a last-minute change as Foo Fighters dropped out of the event for undisclosed reasons. Some festivalgoers grumbled about that, but there were plenty of other musicians to take in, like Goo Goo Dolls, Boyz II Men, Lisa Loeb and Grace Potter.
Noah Kahan was Saturday night’s headliner. And Jessica Holm from western Massachusetts was pumped about his appearance.
“I hope Noah Kahan doesn’t cancel because of the rain. I came all the way here for him and it’s my birthday,” she said.
What was only supposed to be an hour of precipitation turned into a full day of misty and hard rain that came down relentlessly. Some came prepared with their own plastic ponchos and blankets. Others were left to figure it out, so some looked for garbage bags and others squished into one of the few tented areas.
Kahan, a Vermont native, was one of the most anticipated performances. He’s generated a national fanbase after his critically acclaimed and award-winning album “Stick Season.” He has a strong New England fanbase, too, as his songs are about growing up as a New Englander.
But during his performance, Kahan issued Connecticut an apology.
Previously, Kahan had said that Connecticut is not a part of New England — comments that generated some controversy.
“My name is Noah Kahan and I owe your state an apology. I see the weather! This is New England,” he said on stage.
He later sported a Hartford Whalers Jersey.
Kahan’s performance electrified the crowd, with people dancing, jumping and singing throughout the sold-out festival fields.
Despite the rain, other performances also brought in high energy. Boyz II Men performed their greatest hits, getting the audience moving and invested into the moment — having security workers and fans alike in awe.
On day two, acts like Greta Van Fleet, Teddy Swings and The Bleachers all took to the stage. Their performances had fans singing their hearts out. Some sat on shoulders, as giant beach balls flew through the crowd.
