HUMBOLDT — Around these parts, the locals like to joke that it takes two hours to drive to a big city from any direction: Kansas City, Wichita, Topeka, Tulsa, Joplin.
If that’s true, it would make Allen County the middle of everywhere.
Damaris Kunkler, community engagement director with A Bolder Humboldt, hopes to capitalize on that location to bring The Middle of Everywhere Music Festival to Humboldt.
The event will feature blues and roots music over Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3 and 4.
The music acts mostly come from within that two-hour radius — Kansas City, Lawrence, Tulsa, Wichita. One band is from Arkansas.
“I wanted to work with musicians who are hot in their area, and bring them all together to meet in the middle,” Kunkler said. “The festival is a little blues-heavy with some variation.”
And speaking of location, there will be two: Revival Music Hall and Camp Hunter.
The first night offers a sneak peak at the recently renovated former Presbyterian church. The Revival Music Hall aims to become a premier music venue for regional and national touring artists. It’s not expected to open formally until 2023.
The second day will feature six acts at Camp Hunter, a scenic Civil War-era campground.
Kunkler, who is also a musician, is working with Tony Works and A Bolder Humboldt to develop and manage the music hall. She’s also been working with a music consultant and has toured multiple music venues for advice and assistance.
“I want people to know we’re about to get serious about music here,” she said. “As a concert-goer, I’ll drive to see music I love, especially if it’s at a cool venue.”
She chose to have the second day of the festival at Camp Hunter because “it’s just a great place for a music festival.” Another local musician, Jeff Barnett, recently hosted the Owl Creek Jamboree at the park. The site features plenty of trees to help attendees stay cool.
Tickets are $10 for each day and can be purchased at Eventbrite or at the door. 
Saturday
Revival Music Hall, 102 S. 10th St,
Doors open at 5 p.m. Beer will be sold at a cash bar; Rookies Sports Bar & Grill will sell pizza. T-shirts also will be offered for sale.
