The Lehigh River Blues Jam was re-instated in 2025 following its last event in 2021. Promoter and Founder, Bev Conklin, has been introducing Blues artists to the Lehigh Valley, who do not perform here often, since 2006. Due to a sold out Ice House last year following a 3-year hiatus, Conklin is returning the event to the Days Hotel ballroom to offer more seating, a stage, hotel rooms, parking, food, bar and other amenities. The festival runs from 2-11 PM.
New to this event will be multi-award headliner, Slam Allen. Slam was the former band leader and guitarist for the legendary James Cotton among many other of his accomplishments. Bev first saw him at Blues 2000 & Beyond. Also new and replacing Carly Harvey (due to a schedule conflict) is Iowa’s Kevin Burt, the 2019 winner of 3 Blues Foundation IBC Awards for guitar, harmonica and vocals. Kevin’s solo performance at the 2025 Berks Blues Festival was a standout.
This year offers a powerful line-up of artists who will keep the entire room engaged from start to finish. For those who want more Blues following Slam Allen, they can head down the hall to the Jetport Lounge until 11 PM with Big Bone Daddy, who might lure some of our event artists to join in.
17th ANNUAL LEHIGH RIVER BLUES JAM
Days Hotel by Wyndham
3400 Airport Rd., Allentown PA 18109
Jan 31, 2026 (2-8 PM)
$55 at the door
7:45-8:30 PM Slam Allen
6:10-7:25 PM Kevin Burt
4:35-5:50 PM Dave Keller Band
3:00-4:15 PM Bobby Kyle Band with guest Dave Keyes
2:00-2:40 PM BC Blue feat. Bev Conklin with guest Dane Tilghman
8:00-11:00 PM
Big Bone Daddy
after party in the Hotel's Jetport Lounge
Special guest emcees include:
Dr. Mojo (WMUH)
Sound and lights by CITY ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEMS
Thank you to our sponsors to include Godfrey Daniels, WDIY, WMUH, and North Jersery Blues Society. Extending much gratitude also to all the donors and volunteers that make this festival happen.
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