With autumn just around the corner, The EndZone has found another way to take the party outdoors.

On Sept. 17 and 18, The EndZone will host River Grass.

This new outdoor concert event is something Rob Brumfield, owner of The EndZone, says his customers have been asking for.

“They’re always asking when the next event is,” said Brumfield. “It’s a chance to do something outside in the fall when it’s not so hot.”

The event will feature four bluegrass bands, some with national acclaim.

“It’s not traditional bluegrass,” Brumfield said. “It’s new grass. It is very progressive and very popular.”

On Sept. 17, Ironton’s own Paul Wag and Friends will perform. The up and coming New Old Calvary will also perform.

“Their following is just getting bigger and bigger,” Brumfield said of the band.

On Sept. 18, Genuine Junk Band from Ashland will perform.

Also that night, Greensky Bluegrass will return for another EndZone show. They will play two sets.

“They have become so popular, we can’t have them play inside,” said Brumfield.

The band from Kalamazoo, Mich., has earned national recognition, winning the 2006 Telluride Bluegrass Festival Band Competition in Colorado.

“We all discovered bluegrass on our quest for as much musical knowledge and experience as possible,” said Paul Hoffman, mandolin player for Greensky Bluegrass.  “For similar reasons, it seems, the acoustic ensemble and the style drew us all away from other musical interests.  Then the fusion of our interest in rock bands, classical composition, and youth entered our bluegrass reality.”

Hoffman said that the band is looking forward to playing in Ironton again.

“If I may, I will quote another Michigan band,” said Hoffman. “’We’re coming to your town to help you party down.  We’re and American Band.’”

Brumfield said he has had many inquiries about the River Grass festival, from Columbus to Charlotte, N.C.

Tickets are on sale now. Advance tickets for both nights are $8, or $5 each night. The music starts at 6:30 each night.

On Saturday, there will also be a cornhole tournament.

“It is $16 per team and that includes a discounted admission price for that Saturday,” said Brumfield. “Sign ups are going on now, and there is a limited amount of spots available.”

Brumfield also said that there would be some vendors and that the smoker would be outside and grilling.

“We’re taking advantage of lots of space and the weather.”