Weesefest 08: A Local Music Festival With A Birthday Party Twist

Ever dream of having your own music festival?…For one Raleigh man that dream is a reality.

Benton Weese will be celebrating his 29th birthday this Thursday, and will be doing it with his own music festival of sorts, “Weesefest,” held at The Pour House Music Hall in downtown Raleigh. The show features five pretty popular bands as well as T-shirts and posters adorned with a photo of the guest of honor .

This year marks the second year the show has been held at The Pour House and the fourth year for Weesefest. After making the event one of The Pour House’s biggest nights last year, this year several bands actually asked him for the opportunity to play the event, one driving from New Jersey in order to make an appearance.

Weese had the opportunity to meet all the bands performing Thursday evening through his job as a doorman for the venue. “They’re all my friend’s bands” Weese said. “Shifter is my favorite band, the T’s are friends, American Aquarium asked to play”

Each year the event has a theme. After Mermaids in 05’, Indians in 06’ and 007 in 07’ the theme for this year is “Weese in 08.” His platform? “World Peace and Free Gas”

Weesefest is Thursday July 3rd at The Pour House Music Hall on Blount St in downtown Raleigh. Doors are at 7pm, and the music starts at 8pm. Tickets are $10.