Successful Chasco Fiesta Ends Saturday With Rocker Eddie Money

NEW PORT RICHEY, FL -- This year's Chasco Fiesta will rock out. The festival will conclude with a performance by classic rocker Eddie Money and The Greg Billings Band Saturday, April 6.

Following in his father's footsteps, Eddie Money originally intended to be a Brooklyn, New York, cop. He attended the New York Police Academy during the early '70s, but at night he sang in rock & roll bands under the name Eddie Money. Eventually, quit the academy to pursue a career in rock n' roll.

He quickly rose to fame during the MTV era with a string of hits including "Two Tickets to Parade," "Take Me Home Tonight," "Walk on Water" and "Baby Hold On.'

Now at the age of 70, Money isn't showing any signs of slowing. He's currently in the midst of a national tour in between filming his AXS TV reality show, "Real Money."

Also on tap for the festival's final day is The Covanta Chasco Fiesta Boat Parade is scheduled for 1 p.m. This is believed to be the oldest boat parade in the state of Florida. The parade starts in Millers Bayou along the Pithlachascotee River, and finishes at Sims Park.There will be prizes for best-decorated boats including $1,000 for the best overall boat.

Fiesta-goers can also visit the American Indian Heritage Festival featuring the food, culture, dances, music and traditions of Native American tribes.

Festival visitors will have a chance to an authentic Plains Cree encampment, the Solan Spruce Iroquois Dancers, gator wrestling, Aztec dancers, a hoop dancer and singers sharing traditional Native American songs.

The Covanta Chasco Fiesta Carnival will continue Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. adjacent to Sims Park on Bank Street.The midway has a special area for younger children as well as thrill rides.
Single tickets are $1.50 or fiesta-goers can buy 20 tickets for $25 and 50 tickets for $50.
An unlimited wrist band can be purchased for $25.

For the 48th year, the West Pasco Sertoma Club will serve its famous barbecue in Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey during the remaining day of the fiesta from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. There will be beer and wine available as well.

For information on parking, accommodations and a map of the festival grounds, click here.