BayFest Update: More Contests, Pyrotechnics

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As the 2011 BayFest gets closer, organizers are adding and enhancing the stakes and excitement for contestants and the crowd during the events July 15-17 at Kaneohe Marine base.

Opening day features Cecilio and Kapono on stage at 7 p.m., followed by the Grucci fireworks show and Live After Party with the local indie rock and pop-punk band the Throwdowns at 9:30. (C & K tickets are $10 in advance or $15 that day.) Concert gates open at 3 p.m. Also booked are Hoobastank at 7 p.m. and Puddle of Mudd at 8:45 July 16. Award-winning country music star Joe Nichols, famous for Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off and other favorites, will close out the weekend music at 8:30 p.m. July 17. (Tickets are $20 in advance, $30 that day.)

For concert tickets and more information, go to bayfesthawaii.com or call Kim Teruya at 254-7501.

Contests abound, from eating burgers to stroller decorating. SoulTrex Decked Out Wheels contest at 1 p.m. July 16 invites parents to decorate their child’s stroller, wagon or wheelchair in a patriotic, Hawaiian or recycled theme. There’s also a 4-mile inaugural stand up paddle board race at 10 a.m. that day. Entry fee is $25 in advance, or $30 that day. (254-7473). The Bathtub Regatta returns at 12:30 p.m. July 17 for those who can build and propel their own crafts (254-7590).

Food booths, Coconut Island boat rides, E.K. Fernandez midway and games, a keiki coloring corner and military displays round out the weekend. Vendors at the eco-village are reminded they must reserve their space by June 30 (254-7651).