Creationfest Benefits Enumclaw Economically and Musically

There is a lot to be excited about as Creationfest comes to town this week, July 20-23.

The business community is looking forward to the city practically doubling in size as Creationfest, mixed with the Street Fair, could bring in 10,000 visitors.

But I am excited about the music that is going to be playing here, and I hope everyone can make it out to Creationfest at least for one day.

It costs about $50, but you can spend that much going to see just one singer. At Creationfest, you can see a bunch of singers for that price.

I grew up in the 1970s and ‘80s so I love classic rock. I even play drums and sing in a band. But rock music today just isn’t what it used to be. Some modern country music has that sound, but it’s tough to find anywhere else. Unless, that is, you are into modern Christian music.

I am a big fan of the Newsboys. I saw them at Comcast Arena in Everett a few years ago, and it probably was one of my favorite concerts ever. The best part was when the drummer was hoisted into the air on a rotating platform.

I don’t know if they will have that here, but they still are worth seeing. Their song “I Am Free” will get you on your feet and echoing back at them even if you don’t know the song. “Something Beautiful” always reminds me of my daughter and me on her wedding day and therefore is a favorite.

The best thing about Christian rock is the music is great, and the lyrics are positive, unlike so much other music.

I saw Toby Mac at the Puyallup Fair with Third Day, and they put on a high-energy show. Many of their tunes are a little more modern rap than I like, but some of their stuff, such as “City On Our Knees,” “Hold on” and “Get Back Up,” will resonate with the older crowd.

Hawk Nelson I saw in Redmond with Jeremy Camp a few years ago. I’d never heard of them, but they really rock, too, with songs like “Shaken.”

I went to see Steven Curtis Chapman, the guy who got me hooked on Christian rock, a few years ago in Seattle. I actually was disappointed in his performance, but was blown away by two then-newcomers that have gone on to stardom– Casting Crowns and Chris Tomlin.

Tomlin is awesome in concert because even if you don’t know his music you can catch on right away. They are simple to follow and have great messages. Some of my favorites are “Indescribable,” “Your Grace is Enough,” and the classic “How Great is Our God.”

Many other acts are coming that I want to see, including: Brandon Heath, Shawn McDonald, The David Crowder Band, Tenth Avenue North and Francesca Battistelli.

Even if you don’t consider yourself to be a Christian, go to the event anyway. You will hear some great music, and who knows what else might happen?

As I mentioned, economically the event is great for this town. And just last week the City Council agreed to a 10-year pact with the organization. The city itself will make at least $70,000, plus 10 percent of the concessions at the event, according to the newest agreement.

The thousands of visitors spend money at restaurants and grocery stores. Sure, some people camp at the site itself, but others stay in hotels or nearby camping areas, too.

Many festival goers come to town just to check it out. They buy all types of items from just about every store. There will be a shuttle going between the Expo Center and town. So the festival could help even more businesses than usual. And in a struggling economy, events such as these can decide if a business makes it or not.

Sure, there will be some noise and traffic problems, and police will be busier than usual. But overall it’s a great benefit to the community.