Leighton to host 4th annual Sledgefest June 13-15
Four years ago, the Town of Leighton held an event, dubbed Sledgefest, to honor legendary native musician Percy Sledge.
Fellow native Jimmy Hughes is also honored during the festival.
“You are invited to celebrate one of the most renowned musicians of all time, Percy Sledge at the 4th Annual Sledgefest,” said Town of Leighton Event and Grant Coordinator Debbie Bell Bradford is a release. “Born in Leighton, Alabama, Percy was best known for his heart felt soul sounds that were heard all over the world. His most well-known hit, ‘When a Man Loves a Woman,’ is still heard today at venues that share the love of the unique sound of Leighton’s Percy Sledge.”
Last year, the festival was extended to three days, and the 2025 installment will keep the same format.
The three-day event, held June 13-15, will kick off Friday on Main Street at 6 p.m. with performances by Papa Pawl and the Voodoo Kings followed by Bizzy E Band.
F&D’s Soul Food will have lunch available starting at 11 a.m., with Eleven 03 on Main Street serving dinner beginning at 5 p.m.
On Saturday, food trucks and specials at local establishments will be available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Performances that day include Maxwell Russell & Shakedown Kings (2 p.m.), Eric Nichols & Friends featuring Wayne Chaney (3 p.m.), Studio Code 502 (4:30 p.m.), Amanda Brewer with Big Joe and the Catfish Junkies (6 p.m.) and Howell Sledge and The Revue (7:30 p.m.).
The Women in Art Museum in Leighton Public Library and The Leighton Museum in Bank Independent will be open from 2-6 p.m. on Saturday.
On Sunday, local churches will celebrate Father’s Day.
“It takes a village to make things happen in a small town, and we have been blessed with sponsors, volunteers and a supportive mayor and town council,” Bradford said. “Mayor Derick Silcox believes we don’t necessarily want things bigger each year, but better. And with continuous efforts to secure grants for the town, we have been able to make much needed improvements. And as my daddy always said, one bite at a time.”
