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West End Celebration Showcases Music and Ar t N ow in its 14th itera- tion, Sand City's West End Celebration, "Celebrating the Power of Art," has become one of the most beloved happen- ings on the Monterey Peninsula. While many other festivals and events are geared to visitors, West End is beloved by local res- idents as a three-day expe- rience to catch up with old friends and make new ones. While it's not strictly a music festival, the streets of Sand City hum all weekend with sublime sounds ema- nating from two official stages. Featured on the Main Stage are the infec- tious California Honeydrops, electronic pop/rock band Fire in the Hamptons, Americana artist Mike Beck and the Bohemian Saints and Red Beans & Rice. The Reel to Real Stage focuses on young, up-and-coming artists such as Lillie Lemon, Valley Soul, The Pip Squeaks and "rogue cellist" Rashad Eggleston. Dozens of artists and craftspeople line the streets, their booths burst- ing with colorful displays of their art. Many artists open their studios for tours and demonstrations, lending visitors an up-close-and-personal peek into the inner workings of the creative process. A variety of food and bever- age vendors offer tasty treats of many types and cold beverages from local breweries and wineries. The West End Wine Pavilion plays host to sever- al local wineries who pro- vide tastings in a commem- orative glass. All proceeds from the $10 tickets go to "Guitars Not Guns," a non- profit that offers music as an alternative to violence and brings art into the lives of at-risk youth. Also benefitting Guitars Not Guns is the ever-pop- ular Friday Night Kick-Off par ty, this year featuring Chris Cain and the Kaye Bohler Band. While tickets to the Friday show are $20 in advance and $25 at the door, admission to the celebration Saturday and Sunday is free. The West End Celebration takes place Friday-Sunday, August 21-23. For more information and tickets to the Friday party, a list of vendors and com- plete schedule of events, visit www.westendcelebration.com. —Michael Chatfield SHORTCUTS EVENTS Ry Bradley, LA Country Music Artist of the Year, plays the West End Celebration on Saturday, August 22 at 1:15. The event is a celebration of art, music and food. 66 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R / F A L L 2 0 1 5 Photo: Jim Trice