Every August, something special stirs in the Sierra Foothills. It’s not just the sunshine, the tall trees, or the laughter echoing through Nevada City—it’s the unmistakable energy of Jerry Bash, a beloved hometown tradition that brings Deadheads, families, and music lovers together to honor the music, magic, and legacy of Jerry Garcia and the Grateful Dead.
Now in its 29th year, Jerry Bash was started by the local band The Deadbeats, and has grown to become more than a concert—it’s a community ritual, a multigenerational gathering where music, food, art, light, and love come together in one perfect day at beautiful Pioneer Park. It’s what organizers describe as “that special Dead magic you can’t quite explain—but definitely feel.”
“Jerry Bash is more than just a concert—it’s a community celebration,” said Gary Campus, a local drummer and co-founder of the event. “It’s a way for us to honor Jerry and keep the spirit of the Dead alive in a way that’s open to everyone.”
A Homegrown Lineup of Heavy Hitters
This year’s headliner is Band Beyond Description, a Nevada City-based ensemble known for their dynamic interpretations of Grateful Dead classics and other improvisational rock. The group features a powerhouse lineup of regional favorites, including Campus himself (of The Deadbeats), Jonny Mojo (Achilles Wheel), Scott Guberman (Phil Lesh & Friends), Sean Lehe (Moody Cat), David Lee (Moody Cat), and Danny Roholt.
“This band has chemistry and heart,” said Campus. “When we play together, it feels like we’re channeling something bigger than ourselves. And that’s what the Dead were all about.”
The day’s music lineup also includes performances by:
- Painted Mandolin, featuring renowned multi-instrumentalist Joe Craven, Larry Graff, Matt Hartle and Dan Robbins exploring the acoustic side of the Garcia/Grisman catalog along with Grateful Dead and Jerry Garcia Band favorites.
- The Haphazard String Band, a Jerry Bash exclusive led by Craven and longtime collaborators Peter Wilson, Sean Lehe, Dellow, and Jonathan Bluemel and others, offering a fresh take on deeper cuts and rarely heard tracks.
- Jay Tausig and Shelby Snow breathe new life into the poetic / musical legacy of Jerry Garcia and Robert Hunter with genuine acoustic interpretations that honor the deep lyrical traditions they forged.
- Las Niñas Muertas (The Dead Girls), an all-female acoustic tribute weaving beloved Hunter/Garcia and Weir/Barlow songs with heartfelt harmonies. The Los Ninos Muertos are: Juliet Gobert, Kelly Garmire, Toni Valenta, Mary Curtin, and Annette Taborn.
A Legacy That Endures
Jerry Garcia passed away nearly 30 years ago, but his music continues to resonate across generations. What began as a subculture in the 1960s has become a lasting community—one that finds common ground in shared experience, spontaneous musical moments, and a spirit of inclusion.
“Dead fans are the most loyal group of people I’ve ever seen following a band,” Campus said. “I’ve been playing this music for 30 years, and I’m still amazed by the energy they bring.”
It’s that same energy that organizers hope will infuse this year’s event—not just in the performances, but in the crowd itself. Attendees are encouraged to bring picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and dancing shoes. Families with children are welcome, and there will be shaded areas for relaxing throughout the day.
More Than Nostalgia
While Jerry Bash pays tribute to the Grateful Dead, it’s also about what that music continues to inspire: connection, improvisation, creativity, and joy.
“It’s amazing to see kids twirling in tie-dye next to folks who saw the Dead at Winterland,” said Wilson. “The music creates a bridge between generations.”
As the sun dips behind the trees of Pioneer Park and the final jam of the evening begins, what remains is more than just a show. It’s a celebration of what the Grateful Dead stood for—and what they still mean to people today.
WHAT: Miners Foundry presents the 29th Annual Jerry Bash
WHEN: Saturday, August 2, 2025, Gates 1:30pm, Festival 2:00 – 10:00 p.m.
WHERE: Pioneer Park, 421 Nimrod Street, Nevada City, CA 95959
TICKETS: $30 Advance General Admission | Advance price ends at midnight on August 1, 2025
$35 Gate General Admission | Gate price begins at midnight on August 1, 2025
$10 Youth General Admission | 16 Years and Under (only available at the gate)
Babes in arms free