The 25th annual Blue Plum Festival is set for June 7 and 8 this summer as the organization looks to make this anniversary one of its biggest yet. Since its inaugural festival in 1999, the festival has only grown in popularity within Johnson City and the surrounding Tri-Cities area.

The festival represents Johnson City before it was even recognized a city, containing only a small post office called the Blue Plum Post Office. Much like the rest of the depots in the area at the time, they were all founded by aspiring entrepreneur Henry Johnson.

Located at what now is the corner of Buffalo Street and West State of Franklin Road, the Blue Plum Post office became known as one of the most infamous locations in Johnson City in the mid 19th century. Ran by none other than the other, Henry Johnson, he would continue to do so until the city was finally incorporated by the state in 1869.

Photo taken at the Blue Plum Festival. (Contributed/blueplum.org)

With June rapidly approaching, what can you expect from this years Blue Plum Festival?

Since 1999, the Blue Plum Organization has looked to “kick off the summer” and host its annual festival filled with live music and vendors for all ages. With this year being its 25th anniversary, the music theme was set as a mantra to our region, celebrating the spirit of Americana. This year will also boast a new location for the festival, with the King Commons in downtown being the festival’s new home.

A festival goer favorite will also be making a return this year, silent disco. DJ Party McFly is returning for his fourth year as the resident DJ and he says it is the most excited he has ever been. According to the Blue Plum Organization, this will be “most fun Blue Plum has ever seen.”

With the summer kickoff in Johnson City set for June 7 and 8, festival goers cannot wait to see what this year’s music lineup will be.

For more information about this years Blue Plum Festival, visit their website blueplum.org.

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