Last Friday should have been the day that WinterWonderGrass Tahoe opened its gates and kicked off their amazing music festival at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows. There was, however, one tiny problem in the form of a global pandemic called Covid-19 that is going around. Ultimately, eliminating all large gatherings (including music festivals) for the time being, it has left us in a steady state of quarantine. These are unprecedented times and with that, the producers of WWG took unprecedented measures to enhance our community and still bring us the music festival we all love.
In lieu of WinterWonderGrass Tahoe—which was set to take place last weekend and has since been postponed to April 2021 with the original lineup intact—the producers of WinterWonderGrass instead launched WWG TV last Friday. Viewers who tuned into the livestream via the festival’s official Facebook page were treated to an outstanding tribute to the WWG Tahoe community dubbed, “Tahoe – Come Together.” With footage that included recent and archival performances by Billy Strings and Della Mae from WWG Steamboat 2020, the original Tram Jam from 2015, and a cinematic performance by Fruition at the summit of Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, it was must watch TV for any fan of the festival.
“We believe the strength of our community will shine through during this uncharted journey,” remarks festival founder, Scotty Stoughton. “Through the launch of WWG TV, we want to promote social interaction amongst physical distancing within our community and beyond. Grab the people you’re quarantined with, pour yourself a beverage and enjoy this WWG community we’ve built from the comfort of your couch.”
Good news is you can do exactly that. Last week was only the first episode and WWG TV will livestream two more hour-long episodes over the next two consecutive Fridays (4/3 and 4/10). Episode 2 “Colorado – Back to the Roots” is all set to air Friday at 5pm PT and 8pm EST and will include some of the best cuts from the last eight years of WinterWonderGrass Colorado.
WWG TV is just another way that the founders of WinterWonderGrass continue to prove that they are all about fostering togetherness even in an age of social distancing. A virtual connection to a music festival like this is the perfect example of how we can still all connect as a ski community during these interesting times. So as you sit in isolation at your own homes, grab some of your favorite brews, and tune in with your loved ones. It’s an excellent way to supplement your own quarantine Friday Happy Hour. Cheers!
Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont. @allaboutapres