Country Boom organizers ready for large crowds this weekend

The coolers are stocked, the stages have been assembled and the contingency plans for rain seem to be taken care of.

The second annual Country Boom festival in West Salem kicks off Thursday night.

organizers of the event think the prep work has been easier this year.

“This year we have more leeway with a whole year to plan,” John Holthaus said. “A lot more coordination to get ready for the big crowds. We’re excited now that we have more experience under our belt, what this could become.”

Joe Diffie, a 90s country star, will take the stage at 9 p.m. Thursday, with newer artists, like Kip Moore and Kane Brown, headlining Friday and Saturday, respectively.

Holthaus added that it was important to adhere to the most amount of people possible.

“We want music and events like this to bring people of all different age groups together,” he said. “Even if you haven’t heard of one band, to someone else it could be their favorite artist.”

This year people will not be allowed to get dropped off at the grounds by friends or Uber unless they have a certified pass or a handicap sticker.

Holthaus hopes it makes things safer and less congested.

“Coming around the bend on County Road B is kind of dangerous and last year we had Uber’s and random people dropping people off and it turned into a mess,” Holthaus said. “This way we can get people in and out of there quickly and safely. Hopefully people will enjoy it”

Free shuttles will be available. Visit http://countryboom.com for more information.