Keeping Hope Alive at The Jackson Inn
(Photo Credit Robert Pfeiffer)
The pandemic spread like wildfire throughout the world but had an intensely harrowing effect on the music industry. With mid level venues like 1984, Connie’s Ric Rac, and The Boot and Saddle shutting down left and right, up and coming original music bands were left thinking ‘’well, now what?”
Enter stage left, The Jackson Inn. With strict restrictions on indoor venues and limits on outdoor gatherings the Jackson Inn turned it’s parking lot into a socially distant rock and roll safe haven. Hosting a slew of touring and local artists like Eyebawl, who played Firefly Music Festival this year, and Hoochi Coochi, who played XPoNential Music Festival, they’ve been keeping the scene alive with their outdoor seating and beer stations.
(Photo Credit Robert Pfeiffer)
(Photo Credit Robert Pfeiffer)
Michael Koh, the current booking agent, has been doing an outstanding job of keeping the talent rolling in and even hosting a benefit concert to aid those in the community affected by Hurricane Ida. Not only does Michael continue to bill stacked line ups, he helps run sound, runs the venue's social media, and has been known to sit in on bass if you need him to.
Celebrating their 90th birthday in 2019 this bar has a CBGB vibe, mixing the older and colorful patrons with the younger up and coming musicians in the surrounding area. On occasion you can see owner, Fred Bourdon, in the crowd snapping pics of the bands and mingling with the crowd. Eva Hughes, the manager and true captain of the ship, can be spotted behind the bar slinging drinks, remembering patrons’ names, and giving the younger bartenders a run for their money. Since the shows have moved outdoors they’ve incorporated local food trucks to keep the crowd satiated on really busy evenings.
(Photo Credit Robert Pfeiffer)
“The Jackson Inn is unique because while on one hand it is a family owned business with old school charm nostalgic like a leather jacket-and at the same time it is progressive and welcoming with a wide range of entertainment. It really feels like it is for everyone, the regulars and new comers alike.”
With Covid-19 restrictions being lifted the bar has brought back their weekly open mics on Wednesdays and is looking to revive their Thursday night comedy showcase. Plans for the future include a cabaret in November, tales and ales once a month, and karaoke once a month starting in December. You can look forward to hearing anything from rock, folk, jazz, punk and even some rap and opera on Friday and Saturday nights. Follow them on Facebook to keep up with their events.
101 N Dupont Rd, Wilmington, DE 19807
Monday Closed
Tuesday 5pm-12am
Wednesday 4pm-12am
Thursday 4pm-12am
Friday 4pm-12am
Saturday 4pm-12am
Sunday Closed
