Global-warming theme for annual festival Aug. 18

The 32nd annual Clearwater Festival, New Jersey's oldest and largest eco-festival, will be held Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 18 and 19, at Sunset Park in Asbury Park.

The theme of this year's event, which is presented by Monmouth County Friends of Clearwater, is "Global Warming - You'd Better Sweat It!"

This family-friendly event combines information on the environment with live music performed by top-rated national and local performers on two stages, as well as a Circle of Song performance area where festivalgoers are encouraged to bring their own instruments and voice and join in the fun.

Among this year's talented performers on Saturday will be Grammy-winning lead singer of the Spin Doctors Chris Barron, Steel Mill featuring original drummer Vini "Mad Dog" Lopez, Matt O'Ree, winner of Guitarmageddon "King of Blues" 2006, and the Upstage Jam Band featuring an array of musical talent from the legendary Upstage Club in Asbury Park.

On Sunday, performances continue with Al Stewart, composer-performer of the '70s smash "Year of the Cat"; Glen Burtnik, former member of million album-selling rock band Styx; Billy Falcon, singer-songwriter and current Bon Jovi collaborator; and perennial Jersey Shore favorites Baccigalupe and the Badboys.

Both days also feature award-winning children's acts, including Polka Dot, Yosi, Kids at Our House, and Dawnie & The Peanut Butter n' Jammin'.

Festivalgoers will find traditional summer festival fare, including food, crafts, storytelling and a special children's area.

The event takes place, appropriately, in a beautiful shady park on a lake from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. on both days. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children 12 and over, and children under 12 are free. The event is ADA-accessible and sign language interpreters are available. Crafters, food vendors and "green" vendors interested in participating can contact the Friends of Clearwater at www.mcclearwater.org or (732) 872-9644.