It’s a benefit concert that will help future concerts in Historic Folsom for years to come. The Folsom Historic District Association (FHDA) is gearing up for a unique concert Oct. 4 featuring Garratt Wilkin and the Parrothead Band, known for their dynamic performances inspired by the music of Jimmy Buffett. This event, set to be an evening of entertainment and community camaraderie, will support crucial local initiatives, with proceeds benefiting the Rotary Club of Historic Folsom and the FHDA.
Funds raised from the concert will be directed towards the renovation of the Historic Folsom Train Depot’s freight room, which will soon serve as the new home office for the FHDA. Additionally, the renovated space will be utilized as a green room for performers at the adjacent Zittel Family Amphitheater, enhancing the experience of future events in the Historic District. The new green room will be named and memorialized after a former colleague, Peter T. Lewis.
The renovation project, led by historian and FHDA board member Jerry Bernau and FHDA President Jim Snook is budgeted at $95,000. Planned improvements include the addition of an ADA-compliant restroom, new HVAC, new electrical systems, enhanced lighting, hardwood flooring, and the installation of historically accurate doors and interior features. The original iteration was in 1856 and between 1857-1913 there were multiple replacements due to fires and changes in capacity. he Train Depot holds historical significance and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
“We are proud to undertake the renovation of the Historic Folsom Train Depot freight room,” said Jim Snook, President of the Folsom Historic District Association. “This concert not only celebrates our community but also directly contributes to its preservation and enhancement.”
Garratt Wilkin the The Parrotheads have headlined fairs and festivals throughout Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Idaho, Arizona, Utah, Nashville, TN, and as far away as Anchorage, Alaska), Maui, Hawaii as well as the Eastern seaboard and as close as his home town of Placerville just up the road. Their popularity is expanding throughout North America.
Garratt and his band have been billed as the #1 Jimmy Buffett tribute band in the nation. Garratt says, “Traveling with ‘The Parrotheads’ is a great way to meet Jimmy Buffett fans and to make new ‘Parrothead’ friends. We get such a kick performing for fans that become just as much a part of the show as we are,” Wilkin cites.
Since their initial transformation from Garratt Wilkin and The Whiskey Ducks to Garratt Wilkin and The Parrotheads, exclusively performing Jimmy Buffett music, the Parrotheads have performed as a six-piece “core” band and up to as large as a 13 piece band including Steel Drums, Horn Section, Harmonica and Pedal Steel Guitar. Garratt was quoted as saying, “Performing with the big band gives us the closest representation of the Coral Reefers and creates the look, feel and sound of being at a Jimmy Buffett concert.”
The concert will take place on October 4th at the Zittel Family Amphitheater located at 200 Wool Street. Tickets are available now for $25.00 with sponsorships available for $250. Purchased at www.historicfolsom.org. Attendees are invited to enjoy a night of iconic music while supporting the preservation of this beloved Folsom historic landmark.
For more information, please visit www.historicfolsom.org or contact Judy Collinsworth
The Folsom Historic District Association is dedicated to preserving and promoting the historic character of Folsom. Through community events, restoration projects, and marketing efforts the FHDA works to ensure that Folsom’s unique heritage is celebrated and maintained for generations to come.
The Rotary Club of Historic Folsom has a 20-year history of supporting our local community and international projects. This club has raised funds to enhance many other non-profit organizations including, but not limited to: Twin Lakes Food Bank, Powerhouse Ministries, Sweet Dreams Foundation, Hands4Hope, Flying Samaritans & Polio Plus.
Garratt Wilkin and the Parrothead Band have captivated audiences across the country with their authentic and lively performances of Jimmy Buffett’s greatest hits. Known for their high-energy shows and exceptional musicianship, the band is a favorite among fans of all ages.
