The annual WWOZ Groove Gala serves as a fundraiser for the award-winning radio station based in New Orleans. Typically, the event is sold out and takes place in the French Quarter, where hundreds of music fans converge to celebrate the sounds of the city. This year, the event will take place online due to the pandemic. Nevertheless, a barrage of all-star talent will perform to celebrate four decades of OZ.

This year’s Groove Gala takes place Thursday, September 3 and features performances from  Irma Thomas, Tank and the Bangas, John Boutte, Samantha Fish, Kermit Ruffins, Amanda Shaw with Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. and Tuba Skinny.

In a statement from OZ’s Beth Arroyo Utterback, supporters of the station are urged to join in on the fun from the safety of their homes and in favorite festival attire. “Save the date, tell your friends, get ready to wave your Second Line handkerchief in the air and groove at home with us,” she says.

Additionally, there will be a virtual Groove Gala Patron Party at 6 p.m. Central on September 3, where folks are invited to “Zoom schmooze.” There, the musicians performing at the 7 p.m. Groove Gala for the public will be on hand to join in on the conversation. Plus, there will be surprise guests and more. This event is limited to 150 households and will likely sell out. More information o how to attend can be found here.

The 2020 WWOZ Groove Gala will air on Facebook, YouTube, the station’s website as well as on the airwaves on 90.7 FM.