The 5th Annual Drifter Fest: Bert Griggs Memorial Jam returns to Charleston from September 5–7, 2025 with a dynamic lineup of live music, celebrating the life and legacy of the late Drifter Merch founder Bert Griggs.
The festival kicks off on Friday with a free pre-jam event featuring Machine Funk “A Tribute to Widespread Panic” at Home Team BBQ downtown starting at 6 p.m. The main event takes place on Saturday at The Refinery Amphitheater with a lineup that includes progressive improvisational rock/jam band Big Something headlining along with local favorites Kanika Moore & The Brown Eyed Bois, and Just Groove. Doors open at 5 p.m., with music from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
After-parties will follow each night at The Commodore from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Then on Sunday, the festive weekend wraps up with a free show featuring Junco Partner at Vickery’s on Shem Creek from 4-7 p.m.
Tickets are now on sale at DrifterFest.com/tickets. General Admission is $30 in advance, $40 on the day of show. With limited availability, $60 VIP tickets are 21 and older only and include GA access, second-level rooftop viewing area overlooking the event with private VIP bar, inside bathrooms, seating, VIP parking, and commemorative laminate.
Drifter Fest is an annual event in Charleston that celebrates the life of the late Bert Griggs. It has grown into a must-attend celebration of music, art, local eats, and specialty drinks. This year, a portion of proceeds will benefit Rock ‘n Roll Rescue, a non profit that allows children access to instruments and music education programs. Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and organizations interested in supporting Drifter Fest and its mission.
“Bert had a unique ability to make everyone feel special,” said Lorrie Dixson Griggs, festival founder and Bert’s widow. “Drifter Fest is our way of honoring his memory and the joy he brought to so many through music and community.”
For more information, tickets, sponsorship and other inquiries, go to www.drifterfest.com.