Some may still think Charlotteans have limited options when it comes to music, but one just has to dig a little deeper. In a city our size, with all its funky cultural pockets, we do have a wide variety of live musical offerings. Recess Fest #3 gives the Queen City a chance to play and escape with four days of music in any number of cool and funky venues.

The original idea for Recess Fest was about sharing multiple bands and musicians in the area, as well as providing locals a great way to relax during their “recess.” This is the third time for Recess Fest and it looks to get bigger and more interesting every time. Co-founders of Recess Fest, Zach Reader and Casey Malone, came up with the idea while thinking about something like a school’s field day. People can get out and away from work, have fun with their community and meet new folks.

Over the course of four days (from Aug. 11 through Aug. 14) experience more than 30 local and touring bands in various locations. Dates, times, locations, venues and bands are listed on www.recessfest.blogspot.com. On the same site, you’ll find links for listening to the different acts. There will be more going on than music too: a festival of short films centered around the “recess” theme, an Etch A Sketch art show, a variety of water play and some fake gore female wrestlers raising money for charity.

The Recess Fest Weekend Pass is only $20. Where else can you see this many musical acts for one “Andrew Jackson?” Of course, in addition to hearing some unique new sounds, as well as a little punk, grunge and other musical performances, it is always fun to check out the audiences with their rich cultural diversity.

For all the details, check out www.recessfest.blogspot.com and these venue links to get more information:

BLACK SHEEP (1504 Camden Road) CHOP SHOP (599 E. 35th St.) COMMON MARKET (2007 Commonwealth Ave.) FUEL PIZZA (1501 Central Ave.) LUNCHBOX RECORDS (1419-A Central Ave.) THE MILESTONE (3400 Tuckaseegee Road) NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE (511 E. 36th St.) NU FAIZON (You will have to ask a friend.) SEWERCIDE MANSION (329 Woodvale Place) SNUG HARBOR (1228 Gordon St.)

(Please note this event, the music and activities are geared toward adults.)