By Marissa Handerhan, Hidden Valley High School

Northside High School will host the Roanoke Valley’s annual Bandfest on Saturday, Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m.

At the event, teens can gather to have fun and listen to great music performed by their peers, who will compete for cash prizes. The event is a project of the Student Advisory Council of Roanoke County Public School in order to help teens avoid risky behavior.

“We want teens to realize that every Saturday night can be just as fun as this Saturday night, without the use of alcohol or drugs,” said Tyler Langhorn, council representative for Northside’s junior class. He is also a clean hip hop and rap original artist and will be opening for Bandfest.

Featured musicians will range from solo artists to punk, rock and hip hop bands. To appeal to the country lovers, Star Country radio personality Brett Sharp will be a guest speaker at the event.

In addition to live music, there will be a photo booth, games and catering by Chick-fil-A. Bandfest tickets cost $5 at the door, or $3 with two canned foods, which will be donated to a food bank. Proceeds for the event will fund future Bandfests,

For more information, visit Bandfest’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/BandFest.