The 2024 Chula Vista Art Festival, held on August 10th at the City Hall courtyard, was a vibrant celebration of art, music, and community. From 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., the event offered a plethora of activities, performances, and vendor booths that captivated attendees of all ages.
One of the festival’s highlights was the incredible performance by Bruno and the Hooligans, a tribute band that brought the energy and charm of Bruno Mars to the stage. Their rendition of “Lazy Song” had the crowd singing along and dancing, showcasing the timeless appeal of Mars’ music. With a three-octave tenor vocal range and a knack for bringing back the 90s and 80s vibes, Bruno Mars’ music continues to resonate with Gen-Z and millennial audiences today.
🌟 Watch the amazing tribute to one of the best singers, songwriters, and performers of this generation – Bruno Mars! With only three studio albums, he has won eleven Grammys and four Guinness World Records. Bruno and the Hooligans will bring back the 90s and 80s vibes, making this a must-watch for Gen-Z and millennial audiences!
Band Members:
- Phredley Brown (Keyboard, Lead Guitar, & Backing Vocals)
- Jamareo Artis (Bass Guitar)
- Eric ‘E-Panda’ Hernandez (Drums)
- Kameron Whalum III (Trombone, Backing Vocals)
- Dwayne Dugger (Saxophone, Keyboard)
- James King (Trumpet & Backing Vocals)
- John Fossit (Keyboard)
- Philip Lawrence (Backing Vocalist)
In addition to the musical performances, the festival featured a unique vendor – Rad Bag Hats. These handmade hats, crafted from paper grocery bags and recycled materials, offered festival-goers a chance to create their own custom designs. The Hat Bar was a hub of creativity, where attendees could decorate their hats with ribbons, glitter, feathers, beads, and more. The process was as entertaining as the end result, with many capturing the fun moments on camera.
Tony Melendez
Since 1989, the Rad Hatter, Tony Melendez, has been delighting crowds with his unique form of interactive art.
It all began with a flattened paper bag used to play Frisbee in the living room. One wrong catch, and the middle popped up, creating a whimsical and humorous chapeau.
Gracing the lampshade for months, this rad bag hat eventually evolved into a recycled art form. One-of-a-kind designer bag hats soon appeared at San Diego Art Walk and other events around town.
But the magic of the Rad Bag Hat was yet to unfold….
For it was in the gift of sharing this unique creative opportunity that the true essence of the Rad Hatter was born.
Teaching children how to make their own Rad Bag Hat revealed that parents were just as enamored with the creative process as young people.
Now, with baskets full of embellishments and hats full of color, the Rad Hatter brings the creative process to life for crowds of all ages and all occasions.
Blessed with task of making thousands of people happy every year, the Rad Hatter continues to brighten our days and enliven our events with the freedom of playful creativity.
The Chula Vista Art Festival was a free-to-attend event, making it accessible to everyone in the community. It was a day filled with artistic expression, musical enjoyment, and a sense of togetherness. The festival not only celebrated local talent and creativity but also brought people together to enjoy a day of fun and festivity.
Whether you were there for the music, the art, or simply to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, the Chula Vista Art Festival 2024 was an unforgettable experience. Stay tuned for more community events that bring art, music, and joy to our city!