Chris Janson Delivers Show-Stopping Performance at Boots in the Park's Long Beach Debut

The inaugural Boots in the Park festival in Long Beach introduced country fans to a day filled with tunes, dancing, and seaside ambience on March 23. Against the backdrop of the iconic Queen Mary, attendees gathered for a daylong celebration of country music, evading an earlier downpour but bracing against persistent winds that stirred up the festival grounds.

The Long Beach site, although smaller compared to previous events in Norco and San Diego, offered a picturesque and intimate setting with ample space for fans to kick back on the grass, find shade under trees, or take a seat in the bleachers to enjoy the lineup of country music stars.

Headlining the event, though not the final act, was Chris Janson, a Nashville heavy-hitter, who captivated the audience with his energy and crowd-pleasing hits including "Buy Me A Boat" and "Good Vibes." His connection to Southern California shone through as he recounted personal tales and expressed his affection for the region, deeply resonating with the crowd.

During a high point in his set, Janson surprised fans by bringing out special guests. His wife, Kelly Lynn, joined him for a duet on "All I Need Is You," and his son, Jesse Bo, contributed to a touching family moment on stage. Janson's set included a dynamic range of performances from original songs to energetic covers like Rage Against The Machine's "Killing in the Name," which had the crowd rocking along in unity.

Despite Lee Brice being the night's top-billed name, with hits such as "One Of Them Girls" and "Rumor," it was Janson's electrifying set that truly stole the show. Lee Brice led a no-frills but hit-packed performance that had the audience engaged, while LoCash entertained with a mix of their tracks and iconic covers that got everyone moving.

A unique addition to the festival's charm was the Country Club stage devoted to line dancing, creating a vibrant focal point for dancers and spectators alike. Instructors led the crowd through steps to both new and classic songs, adding to the communal festival experience.

Attendees praised the event, with some hoping for it to become a new tradition in Long Beach. The setting by the water and the welcoming atmosphere were particularly highlighted as standout features of this edition of Boots in the Park.

festival, performance, music