FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — The Boots in the Park music festival brought major energy to downtown Fresno this weekend, featuring headliner Blake Shelton on Saturday and a fresh addition to the schedule: a Sunday performance by Pitbull, joined by Lil Jon. Supporting act Bryce Leatherwood also took the stage, contributing to a dynamic mix of country and high-energy pop-rap performances. n nEvent coordinator Bonnie Marquez highlighted the festival’s evolution since its launch nearly ten years ago, noting its transformation into a nationally recognized event. The organizers have consistently refined the experience, incorporating feedback to enhance offerings such as food options, activities, and overall guest satisfaction. n nThis year introduced the Woodward Sports Bar, a dedicated lounge area where attendees could relax with drinks while watching live sports broadcasts—an innovative addition aimed at broadening audience appeal. n nLewis Everk, owner of Woodward Grill, emphasized the positive economic ripple effect generated by the festival. He estimated that local dining and hospitality businesses typically see a 25% to 35% increase in weekly sales during the event. With approximately 15,000 visitors attending each day, the influx significantly benefits the regional economy. n nThe success of past editions has also inspired new local ventures. Everk announced the soft opening of his upcoming nightclub, Azara, immediately following Shelton’s performance on Saturday night—a strategic move leveraging the weekend’s momentum. n nDespite the main events, organizers confirmed availability for Sunday’s show, encouraging last-minute attendees to join the festivities featuring Pitbull. n
— news from ABC30 Fresno
— News Original —
Boots in the Park boosts Fresno’s economy with star-studded weekend
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Bryce Leatherwood was one of the supporting acts for headliner Blake Shelton at Boots in the Park on Saturday. n nThis year, organizers have opted for a new twist on the weekend festivities, adding Party in the Park on Sunday with music superstar Pitbull. n n”You can come and see Blake Shelton and Brett Young one day and Pitbull and Lil Jon the next. And they sound like they ‘re really far apart in genres, but really they ‘re both super fun, you ‘ll know every song,” Bonnie Marquez with Boots in the Park said. n nOrganizers say since its inception almost a decade ago in Fresno, the festival event has grown significantly, demanding big names and touring across the country. n nSince then, it ‘s become a well-oiled machine. n n”Every year we try to just get a little better,” Marquez said. “We learned from each show, so whether it ‘s adding more activities or more food or whatever it is, or changing things up, we ‘re always trying to improve upon our ourselves.” n nOne new feature for the event is the Woodward Sports Bar. A space for festival goers to enjoy a cool beverage while having access to sports games. n nOwner of Woodward Grill Lewis Everk says Boots in the Park not only brings in thousands of people to the area but also offers an economic boost. n n”I think typically most area restaurants and eateries in the area should anticipate about a 25 to 35% bump in their normal sales, week over week,” he said. “I mean, when you ‘re bringing 15,000 people two days in a row to the area, it ‘s really going to help out this local economy.” n nEverk says the weekend has proven to be so successful in the past, he ‘s deciding to soft launch his new nightclub Azara on Saturday night after Blake Shelton wraps up his set. n nIf you don ‘t have tickets, there ‘s still time for tomorrow. Organizers say there ‘s still room for people to come out and enjoy Pitbull tomorrow. n nClick here to learn more about how to buy last-minute tickets.