Crunchy Good Time

Any good sheepherder knows that the best way to move a flock is to bait the animals with food. Lost Family Productions came up with an equally effective way to lure people to its Gaea Retreat: jam bands. The festival’s promise of a spiritually charged “Earth awareness” experience would likely be a tougher sell without the draw of bands such as 77 Jefferson, SeedLove, Bockman, Brother Bagman, Deadman Flats, Cornerstone Dub and 20 more festivarian-friendly regional acts. Once all the sheep — er, peeps — are gathered, they’ll also have the opportunity to learn about free energy, hemp, hydro cars and hoop dancing. The retreating begins at noon today and continues through Sunday at Camp Gaea (25110 235th Street, McLouth, 913-796-2141). Three-day passes cost $40 a person or $120 for a carload, but you can save $20 by volunteering at the gate. “This event will change lives,” promises unsheepish organizer Grant Foster.

Fri., July 18; Sat., July 19; Sun., July 20, 2008