Gathering of the Vibes draws thousands to Seaside Park

Bridgeport, Conn. (WTNH) - The vibe was still going strong at Seaside Park Sunday, as the annual four-day Gathering of the Vibes music and arts festival started wrapping up until next year.

It was a weather-perfect weekend and thousands of people turned out to listen and dance to local and national artists. It was a non-stop party since it began on Thursday with many revelers camping out in the park near the ocean.

Organizers say each year say they look forward to the summer festival, which began as a tribute to the life of the Grateful Dead's Jerry Garcia.

“Every year definitely gets a little bit hotter, a little bit more intense, a wider genre of people come," said one organizer.
Vendors provided food, beverages and all kinds of merchandise. With the weather cooperating this year, some vendors told News 8's Marc Robbins the economy has helped out as well.

"Things are looking up," said vendor Taylor Swope. "Last year was a little rougher."

"Last year we didn't have the weather with us," vendor Maggie Murle said. "With the sunshine comes more business... happier people."

While other vendors say the country's economic troubles did seep into the Seaside park gathering.

"Matter of fact, yes, there is a slight dip in sales compared to a year or two ago," said vendor, Garry Engle.

Economic success, much like musical taste, seemed to vary from person to person.

Four groups hit the stage Sunday, and will wrap up with a late night dance party.