Two-day music festival held in West Deer enters 16th year

A music festival in West Deer, celebrating its 15th year, is gearing up for its annual two-day event Sept. 3 and 4.

Corbriwoodstock, inspired by the iconic 1969 Woodstock, got its name from its location at a farmhouse at 36 Corbriwood Lane. The inaugural festival was held in 2008 on a smaller scale. Over the years, the festival grew from word of mouth.

“It is filled with love and support and friendship,” co-founder John Vento said. “I think people know when they come to this, it will be a great vibe.”

Vento said the intent of the festival is to bring together musicians and people for a great cause. All proceeds are donated to Allegheny CleanWays.

The lineup features local bands. Vento said the first day consists of unplugged acoustic sets and the second day is full of bands. Thirteen acts are scheduled to take the stage.

The Saturday event will be from 4 to 10 p.m.; doors open at 3. The Sunday event will be from 2 to 10 p.m.; doors open at 1.

Limited tickets are available for $30 for advance-only admission to both shows. Children 12 and younger are admitted for free.

Myrna Newman, executive director of Allegheny CleanWays, said the festival has consistently donated to the organization for years. Founded in 2000, the organization cleans up litter and illegal dumping in Allegheny County. They have removed more than 5.4 million pounds of trash, including 40,000 tires.

She said one of the founding members lives on the street where the festival is held and chipped in with helping to organize it.

“John went to the neighbors and asked if it was OK to have the festival on the street,” Newman said. “They have all chipped in to create this festival each year. Our board members suggested that they can do it and have a portion of proceeds go to fundraising and sometimes other organizations.”

Newman said the organization is grateful for the festival’s donations.

The festival is worth coming out to check out, she said.

“It is a way for us to get our name out there and get information out to people who may not have heard about us,” she said. “It’s a great opportunity for marketing and getting other people to volunteer with us and donate to us as well.”