The heart and soul of Cotati brought rhythm and blues to the town during their annual Cotati Music Festival presented by the Cotati Chamber of Commerce. In La Plaza Park from 12 p.m. to around 6 p.m. on Saturday the 21st, locals and tourists laid back in lawn chairs and across picnic blankets. Dressed in casual but formal attire, people of all ages moved and grooved to covers of popular soul, blues, and rock bands from the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, and even the ’90s.
Kids laughed and twirled, a motion most noticeable as dresses spun wildly like men’s hair as heads bobbed. The smells of fresh food and sunscreen brought a warm cozy feeling that was left unmatched on the Summer Solstice day under the shade of the trees hanging overhead. Cowboy hats tilted while soft gestures of passion grew deeper into the weekend evening.
Festival-goers favored the free admission, one person by the name of Callan alleged he had been traveling across the US for some time, “I was on a bus and saw this happening, so I got off to see more.” Later he expressed, “I’m so glad it’s free.” Several locals felt similarly that the production was well-made and served the community uniquely.
The city was able to provide space for local businesses to host pop ups around the perimeter of the park, curated items such as jewelry, clothes, and art of all different kinds brought a personable twist to the already inclusive event. Kona Ice, Cousins Maine Lobster, Costas Tacos, Ultimate Souvlakia, and Crazy Crab Sandwiches were just a few of the local food vendors as well, located right next to the somewhat new Slow Co. Pizza restaurant.
Hips swayed as music played, a true embrace of pleasure and relaxation put worry and fear to rest. It was the common interest of music that brought town members together to savor these irreplaceable moments of happiness that truly give life meaning. Politics and media weren’t relevant when the sights and sound of people doing what they love for people who love it was more important in the moment than anything else.
It was the peace and unity the town needed, and while it seems difficult and complicated to extend that same feeling and state to the world, it is possible.
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