30-year tradition mourning summer’s end at Jazz Funeral
Marilyn Panagopoulos already knows how she will spend Labor Day — dressed in black and, unfortunately, mourning the loss of a familiar friend.
But she won’t be alone.
Thousands will join her on the Bethany Beach Boardwalk in Bethany Beach, Delaware, to bid farewell to a warm and sunny companion.
Sadly, they will say goodbye to summer.
A 30-year-old tradition, the Bethany Beach Jazz Funeral mocks similar jazz funerals made famous in New Orleans, characterized by their upbeat hymns and bouncing lace parasols.
“It’s extremely clever,” Panagopoulos said. “A little sad and a lot of silly.”
Crowds dressed in outrageous mourning garb will escort the “Summer 2015” casket to its final resting place at the Bethany Beach Bandstand.
Mourners will pretend to weep into handkerchiefs, carrying flowers and “rest in peace” signs.
New Orleans-style bands Dixie Cats, the Downtown Dixieland Band and the Jazz Funeral Irregulars will lessen the pain, though, through the lively sounds of trumpet, clarinet, tuba and trombone.
The weekend celebration of summer’s “unofficial end” begins Friday, Sept. 4, with a silent auction at Bethany Blues on North Pennsylvania Avenue. The proceeds from the auction will benefit the American Red Cross of Delmarva and a number of other local charities.
The Bethany Beach Jazz Funeral for Summer 2015 will be celebrated Monday, Sept. 7, with activities beginning at about 5 p.m. at the north end of the boardwalk.
Founded in 1985 by former Town Councilman Moss Wagner, the jazz funeral began as a fun celebration for locals that aimed to keep tourists in the town for an extra weekend. Over three decades, it has evolved into a theatrical and extravagant event, where locals and tourists alike give summer a dignified sendoff.
Although they often celebrate for different reasons.
“For us, we rejoice because we’re getting our town back,” said Daniel Lewis of Bethany Beach. “But for (tourists), I think it is more sad. They have to say goodbye to the beach.”
Paul Jankovic, event chairman, describes the scene as dramatic — even powerful.
“Summer brings this little town to life and it’s sad knowing things are about to get quiet again,” he said. “The funeral is our way of recognizing another great season and humbly paying our respects.”
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IF YOU GO
30TH ANNUAL BETHANY BEACH JAZZ FUNERAL
When: 5:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 7
Where: Bethany Beach Boardwalk
Call: 302-537-1585
Visit:www.jazzfuneral.net