FAIRHOPE — Blankets, chairs and colorful umbrellas dotted the campus of Faulkner State Community College last Saturday as about 4,000 people staked out their space for the Fairhope Music Festival.

The family-oriented, outdoor event, in its fifth year, seemed to have something for everyone, with 23 bands playing on four stages across the campus. From bluegrass, folk, country and blues to contemporary Christian music and classic rock, the festival fed a diverse range of musical appetites.

Headliners included the classic group Atlanta Rhythm Section; a Beatles tribute from The Return; vocalist Michael Warren; Willie King and the Liberators; and Alabama’s own contemporary country band, Heartland.

Spectators danced to, or cheered on, their favorite groups, while children enjoyed a number of activities ranging from birdhouse-building, to frolicking with fuzzy friends at the petting zoo.

Local artists also participated, some painting and creating on-site, while others displayed their wares for sale.

While it was unknown how much money the festival raised, as of press time, one thing is certain: The festival saw a significant increase in attendance from last year’s event, which drew around 2,800 people.

This is good news to music students, because money raised by the nonprofit event is usually directed toward funding innovative music programs in Baldwin County schools — such as the Alabama Blues Project — and providing college scholarships for promising music students.

The festival has raised $60,000 over the last four years, and coordinators said they hope to do even better as the event grows.

“Next year, hopefully, we'll repeat what we did this year, and hope for the same beautiful weather and community support from people who want to enjoy a day with family, friends and great music,”  said Debbie Quinn, who co-chaired the event.

“It’s a great opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy a day outside with family, friends and pets … whether by foot, bike, skateboard, wagon or stroller!”