THIS DAY IN FEST HISTORY, Friday, April 26, 1974 I (Mark) had already thought of the idea of a Beatles Fans’ Convention 5 months earlier as a 10th Anniversary Celebration of The Beatles arrival in America, and had booked the old Commodore Hotel for September 7-8, 1974. The only thing missing was my insistance I get The Beatles approval for such a glorious event in their honor. It was on this evening I heard an announcement on WABC Radio (NY) that John Lennon and Harry Nilsson were going to be appearing at the First March of Dimes Walkathon/Concert in Central Park on Sunday. They were going to be talking with Cousin Brucie (the most popular DJ in the U.S.) on the stage set up on the east side of the park. The 5th Dimension were the musical attraction. I started calling friends and family and telling them I was going to meet John on Sunday (April 28th). Of course, they all thought I was nuts. On Sunday, I will tell the rest of the story of what really happened that warm and sunny Sunday, April 28, 1974. I know many of you have heard this story before, but for those who haven’t, watch for Sunday’s eNewsletter for the most important day in FEST history and a day I will NEVER, EVER forget!!!
The Original & Longest Running Beatles Celebration, Since 1974!
Was the band The Raspberries also on that concert bill? I remember that day as my (then) wife and I attended the Wal-A-Thon and the festivities in the park to see the show. John and Harry showing up was a surprise for us as we were only expecting the concert which I’m sure included The Raspberries.