One of the best locally sourced musical events of the year
For those fortunate enough to spend time in Jim Thorpe during the “off season,” when traffic slows, and the lines and waiting wane back, it’s easier to get a feel for what Jim Thorpe is like for the full timers. When the mirage of visitors clears off of Broadway, and Saturday mornings don’t mean budgeting an extra 30 minutes to grab a cup of joe downtown, a more clear image of life here comes into focus. When traveling, do you ever ask yourself “WWLD” – you know, “what would a local do?’’.
For many-a-resident, there’s a big “don’t miss” right when the tourists start to hibernate. It’s a celebration of all things local: Food and music; agriculture and talent, tradition and an iconic venue. This year marks the 10th edition of Harvest Jam at the Mauch Chunk Opera House.
“Tickets went on sale, and immediately it was like– 50 tickets sold. It’s something a lot of our friends look forward to” said Sara Ruch, who will take the stage alongside her band members on November 21st.
“We’re made up of pretty much all local people, although not everyone lives in town anymore[…] this is the one show every year that everyone really tries to make it back for”.
Harvest Jam is a concert featuring “Free Range Folk” and while, yes, that is the formal title of the headlining band, it’s also a phrase that describes Harvest Jam well. In fact, a concert ticket will actually tell you that you’re going to see “Free Range Folk and Friends”. At Harvest Jam, there's always room for one more on stage, but the rotating door of talent never ceases to deliver.
It’s arguably worth the price of admission alone to see at least four members of a band play four instruments each, and not to mention see instruments you’ve likely never heard of. Asking Sara Ruch what instrument she plays in the ensemble extended her interview by about five follow up questions. Her answer included things like the “boom bah” and the musical saw. The Wurlitzer and theremin will also be taking stage on the 23rd. This is stuff you definitely didn’t see in that elective music class you took to avoid an 8am class alternative. Skip the Google search, and see them in action on November 23rd.
Several weeks ahead of the the show, organizers say they’re “pretty sure” Harvest Jam regular Dani Davison will be “wowing” the crowd with an eclectic mix of stilted-hoola-hooping and aerial gymnastics. New additions to the event include spoken word, and of course new original tracks by the headliners. Although no promises were made regarding what “friends” have committed to the show, the memories Ruch says are in the mystery.
“We’re made up of pretty much all local people, although not everyone lives in town anymore[…] this is the one show every year that everyone really tries to make it back for”.
Having the crew at full bandwidth is certainly a rarity when you’re wrangling nearly a dozen members. While they play several annual shows without a full line up, Harvest Jam is one they can always count on a few musicians to book a flight for.
“It’s just such a beautiful venue, and the sound quality is amazing and it’s just my absolute favorite place to play,” Ruch says, doting over the Mauch Chunk Opera House.
“It feels like a homecoming” said Ruch, “This is how my kids grew up, with this concert kicking off the holiday season”.
What are holidays without food right? If this kicks off the Countdown to all things merry and bright, there’s got to be food, right?
Ruch has her hands on more than a bunch of unlikely instruments when it comes to Harvest Jam. The farm, and eatery she operates with her husband also make an appearance by way of refreshments. Her husband, Kevin, and executive chef Denege Smith (Union Publick House) work together to curate a menu of sustainable, hearty, buffet style dishes. Free Range Folk bringing in free range food, all cultivated in our favorite small town. In previous years, the offerings have included barbecue pulled pork, mac and cheese, and fresh coleslaw. This year? You guessed it! You’ll find out what grew well at 14 Acre Farm this season when you grab a plate in between sets. Ruch hinted that the menu is getting extra love and nuance this go around, after COVID protocols put the kibosh on the spread last year.
Alluring photos of Jim Thorpe calling your name, but crowds have kept you from booking that weekend stay? A late fall rendezvous might be your jam. Like food, music and camaraderie? You ought to plan your visit around Harvest Jam. From performers who double as shop owners on Broadway, to pork raised just miles from the venue, the show certainly emphasizes “local”. That said, Ruch insists a recurring group of out-of-towners, like her own band members, wouldn’t miss this one. Much like the entertainment, there’s always a novel group of faces in the audience. It’s an open door policy, in a venue that stuns.
“It’s just such a beautiful venue, and the sound quality is amazing and it’s just my absolute favorite place to play,” Ruch says, doting over the Mauch Chunk Opera House.
If you’re reading along— ticket in hand, you were probably hoping for more spoilers (sorry!). Still contemplating coming out for the night? Well, we can say this: Jim Thorpe is a great place to live, and, if the year was a football season, Harvest Jam might just be the local Super Bowl. It’s at least a playoff game. So, come one come all, and make a local out of yourself for the night. Heck, the crowds are gone. Come for a week and enjoy the Best of Jim Thorpe.