Lost in the '50s drives home fun
SANDPOINT — With an historic winter in the rear view mirror and the sun finally shining over Sandpoint, the community can once again ready itself for the annual extravaganza of Lost in the ‘50s.
Now in its 23rd year, the weekend that started as a simple fundraiser for The Festival at Sandpoint has morphed into one of the most popular and well-attended local events of the year.
As usual, the festival will feature vintage car shows, dances and enough ‘50s rock ‘n’ roll to appease even the biggest fans of the era.
As founder and principle organizer of Lost in the ‘50s, Sandpoint’s Carolyn Gleason cannot pick a favorite event, but she said each has a special place in her heart.
“Each and every part of the event during the weekend has some different meaning for everyone. Some people love the parade. Little kids love the parade and the street dance,” Gleason said. “They’re all favorites for different reasons.”
While many of the activities and the overall theme have stayed the same over the years, Gleason is always looking for ways to add to and improve the event.
After hearing from people who told her they loved the music of the ‘50s but were either unable to or did not want to dance, Gleason introduced Rock ‘N’ Roll Heaven.
In its fourth year, Rock ‘N’ Roll Heaven showcases tribute artists who embody the spirit of performers who may no longer be alive. The show is held at the Panida Theater and allows audience members to sit down and enjoy some of the most popular music of the ‘50s, like this year’s attractions Elvis Presley, Richie Valens and Jerry Lee Lewis.
The tribute artists enjoy a great deal of popularity, but Gleanson said she still loves hearing the original performers of the era.
“To have the original rock ‘n’ rollers is important,” Gleason said. “I love the way (original ‘50s musicians) sing it and the way they are, even if its years later. Most of their voices have held true.”
This year’s headliners are the legendary Little Peggy March and Gary Puckett and the Union Gap.
Between the bands and the always-popular vintage car parade, Lost in the ‘50s regularly attracts fans from all over the country and world. In years past, Gleason has met attendees from Virginia, Florida, North Dakota, Sweden and many point in between, and she said everyone one of them has felt welcome.
“No matter where you’re from, when you come to Lost in the ‘50s you should feel like you’re home,” Gleason said.
Tickets for Rock ‘N’ Roll Heaven and events on Friday and Saturday are still available, but are selling fast, Gleason said.
For tickets and information on Lost in the ‘50s, call (208) 265-LOST or (208) 263-9321.