Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! Today we dive into an exciting blend of music and festivity that you won’t want to miss. Join us as we recount the lively conversations and preparations for the much-anticipated Winter Wonderland Pub Crawl. Hosted by Jake LaMore on the Kankakee Podcast, this episode features band members from Katzpa Jammas and event organizers Marci and Felicity, delivering an episode packed with charm, music insights, and holiday cheer.
Winter Wonderland Pub Crawl – A Jolly Downtown Celebration
This year, Kankakee’s holiday season is set to be brighter and merrier with the Winter Wonderland Pub Crawl happening on Saturday, December 14th. Our guests Marci and Felicity, the driving forces behind this festive event, shared the exciting details.
“Our goal was to create something magical and engaging for the community,” said Felicity.
The event will kick off with registration at the historic Majestic building. For $25, participants receive a T-shirt, a mimosa, tickets to Katzpa Jammas’ performance, and raffle entries. Adding an adventurous twist, visitors collect candy canes and raffle tickets by stopping at various bars and restaurants downtown.
The Alluring Magic of Katzpa Jammas
Adding an extra shimmer to the Winter Wonderland, Kankakee’s own alternative rock band Katzpa Jammas is set to perform at the Majestic. Band members Kaylee, Jake, Neil, Burt, and Riley shared their journey through the local music scene.
“We want people to have fun with our music, feel the energy, and connect with us,” said Jake.
The band started out playing covers and evolved into creating original tracks that resonate with the spirit of Kankakee, from their debut single “Dewey” to the recently released album, “A Year in Review.” Describing their style as fun-focused alternative rock, the band loves to experiment with various musical influences and improvisations during their live shows.
The Creative Process Behind the Music
During the episode, the band opened up about their songwriting and recording processes. Kaylee revealed that some lyrics stem from personal childhood anecdotes, while collaborative rehearsals often lead to new musical ideas.
“Everyone brings something unique to the table, which makes our music more diverse and interesting,” Kaylee explained.
Burt shared that their evolution involves continually adapting performance dynamics, and Neil enjoys reworking tracks to achieve the exact sound they envision, indicating a meticulous attention to detail.
A Musical Journey Sprinkled with Nostalgia
Interestingly, band member Jake reminisced about his first-grade school play at Bradley East. It was under the play’s lights and before an audience that his passion for music ignited.
“The stage felt magical, and I knew then that music was for me,” Jake recalled.
Meanwhile, Neil’s musical roots included playing alongside family members at open mics at JR’s Chicken, further enriching their narrative with local ties and cherished memories.
A Commendation for Marci and Felicity
Marci and Felicity poured their hearts into making the Winter Wonderland Pub Crawl a reality, carefully curating an experience filled with fun, memories, and community spirit.
“The community’s involvement and enthusiasm keep us motivated to organize such events annually,” said Marci.
This year’s crawl encompasses delightful features like the vendor fair, a new Mistletoe market, parade, and a costume contest, ensuring something for everyone.
Encouraging Safe Celebrations
As always, safety is paramount. Jake LaMore emphasized the importance of responsible celebration, encouraging attendees to designate drivers or arrange safe rides home.
Conclusion: Music and Merriment in Kankakee
This episode is more than just an announcement; it’s an invitation to partake in the joy, music, and camaraderie that define Kankakee’s community spirit. Katzpa Jammas and the Winter Wonderland Pub Crawl promise to deliver an unforgettable experience that encapsulates the holiday magic.
Thank you for joining us on this enchanting journey. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Kankakee Podcast, follow us on social media, and consider supporting us on Patreon. Special thanks to our monthly supporters and sponsors, including Chicago Dough Company, Noble, and Dairy Queen Stores.
Until next time, this is Jake LaMore, signing off with festive cheer and local pride. Stay tuned for more heart-warming stories from the heart of Kankakee County!
