Nudes, Blues and BBQ Fest Rocks the Weekend Away

Looking for something different to do in this fabulous fall weather? Take it off and take in the music at Lake Como this weekend.

The nudist resort in Lutz kicks off its second annual Nudes, Blues and BBQ Fest on Friday, Nov. 9.

Last year’s event drew more than 300 people, and organizers expect this weekend’s to have an even larger turnout.

Friday's party starts with a blues jam led by the 2010 International Blues Competition semi-finalist Josh Lamkin. The fun continues throughout the day and night on Saturday with 2010 Suncoast Blues Society challenge winner Lee Pons, The Tampa Bay Blues Brothers with The Late Night Brass Band, Tampa Bay’s Arlington Road Band, Woody and the Woodtones and Innuendo with Deb Bowen and J.C. Vitte.

Nudity is not required to attend, however, there will be a lot of naturists in attendance, said organizer Rich Ahearn.

“We ask newcomers to be respectful, no picture taking, or staring,” he said.

Nudity is required if using the pool or spa, according to the resort website. Visitors also are asked to bring a towel to place on common seating if you will be nude.

The band members are generally non-nudists, Ahearn said, but “we have had some performers decide to get nude.”

The barbeque will be dished up by Lake Como, and beer will be available for purchase.

According to the event website, BYOB and coolers are allowed for Saturday's concerts, except in the restaurant and bar area. Attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs, the website states.

Craft vendors will showcase their wares throughout the day, as well, Ahearn said. Bring cash, though. Some vendors will accept credit cards, but most will be cash-only, he said.

The event also will include body painting, raffles and bring-your-own-instrument open jam sessions at the Butt Hutt on both Friday and Saturday nights. See the event website for more details.

U.S. veterans are admitted free both days. For others, Friday night’s festivities are $6 if AANR-affiliated or a member of one of the other local nudist communities, and $10 general admission.

Saturday’s event kicks off at 11:30 a.m. with $10 admission. Children under 18 are free with a paying parent. Parking is free.

The blues festival will be followed up on Sunday, Nov. 11, with a Veterans Day event featuring a performance by the Tampa Bay Water Ski Team.

Lake Como, 20500 Cot Road, is located south of the State Road 54/ U.S. 41 intersection in Lutz, just off of Leonard Road.

For more information, visit www.lakecomonaturally.com.