Binghamton's 54th Annual July Fest is just around the corner.

Speaking on the July 2nd of the weekly local public affairs show, Southern Tier Close Up, Downtown Binghamton Business Association President Ron Sall and festival music coordinator, Mike Carbone talk with obvious pride about this year's celebration of arts, crafts and music in the center of Downtown.

Carbone provides an overview of the diverse musical groups participating in the Music and Jazz Festival ranging from jazz to steel drums, a Van Morrison tribute band and blue grass.  Carbone says the music is almost non-stop through all three days of the festival, from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. July 8, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. July 9 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 10.

Sall, Binghamton's undisputed biggest cheerleader, says dozens of vendors look forward to offering a wide variety of items including jewelry, wood work, pottery, photography, painting and, this year and artist who crafts wooden flutes.

The DBBA president adds the festival food like kettle corn that will be available complements the many restaurants now located along the Court Street corridor.

Information on the free festival, including listings of vendors and musical acts can be found at www.julyfestbinghamton.com and on facebook:julyfestbinghamton.

Southern Tier Close Up can be heard Sunday at 6am on 99.1 The Whale15.

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