Clearwater Festival has global-warming theme

The 32nd annual Clearwater Festival, New Jersey's oldest and largest eco-festival, will be held Aug. 18-19 at Sunset Park in Asbury Park. The theme of this year's event, which is presented by Monmouth County Friends of Clearwater, is "Global Warming - You'd Better Sweat It!"

The family friendly event combines information on the environment with live music performed by national and local performers on two stages, as well as a Circle of Song performance area where festival-goers are encouraged to bring their own instruments and voice and join in the fun.

Among this year's performers on Aug. 18 will be Grammy-winning lead singer of the Spin Doctors Chris Barron, Steel Mill featuring Vini "Mad Dog" Lopez, Matt O'Ree, winner of Guitarmageddon "King of Blues" 2006, and the Upstage Jam Band featuring an array of musical talent from the legendary Upstage Club in Asbury Park.

On Aug. 19, performances continue with Al Stewart, composer-performer of the 1970s smash "Year of the Cat"; Glen Burtnik of Styx; Billy Falcon, singer-songwriter and current Bon Jovi collaborator; and Jersey Shore favorites Baccigalupe and the Badboys.

Both days also feature children's acts. Festival-goers will find traditional summer festival fare including food, crafts, storytelling and a special children's area.

The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. both days. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children 12 and over, and children under 12 are free. The event is ADA-accessible and sign language interpreters are available. Crafters, food vendors and "green" vendors interested in participating can contact the Friends of Clearwater at www.mcclearwater.org or (732) 872-9644.