NATCHEZ — If live music and Cajun cuisine sound good to you, then plan to head over to the Jambalya Jam in Vidalia this weekend.

In addition to the great food and music, the proceeds from the event will support a great cause, St. Jude Children’s Hospital’s cancer research.

Mike Trahern, who is in two of the 12 bands that will be jamming from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday in the Vidalia Riverfront Amphitheater, said local musicians from Vidalia and Natchez and as far as Hattiesburg, Lake Charles and Baton Rouge would perform.

Their talents will feature “literally every genre under the sun,” Trahern said. “We wanted to be sure that we were supporting something that is a good cause.”

The entrance fee to the concert is only $2 with an optional $4 per plate for jambalaya. Food trucks will also be serving funnel cakes, drinks and other goodies from different sponsors.

Attendees may also enter a raffle for Domino’s Pizza or enjoy buggy rides up and down the Riverfront.

Trahern said usually the only way up-and-coming bands can book gigs is in nonfamily-friendly settings. He said this fundraiser is an excellent way for people of all ages to hear great music, and children can enjoy the fun, too.

“The average Joe can hear some great music without having to go to a bar,” Trahern said. “It’s a way to support St. Jude and support local music.”

Attendees have the opportunity to hear from Night Plight, Sammy Qadan, Gabriel Bass, Marvin Morehead, Blue Metal River, Greg Robinson Jr., Troll Skull, Stefanie Sea, Hollow Point, War Rig, Sinthetik Messiah and Dark Sky Machine — 12 different bands in 13 hours.

“Come see what the community has to offer,” Trahern said. “I don’t think there is enough of a spotlight on what local bands can do.”

Story by Sabrina Simms