Sawgrass Gove Box Car Stage

[Papa_lecki]

According to Facebook, the entertainment begins at Sawgrass today. It looks like there are tables under the canopies.

If anyone goes, please give an update.

[VApeople]

After walking around Hogeye and resting at Edna's, we went to Sawgrass to see how it is.

It was crowded and very noisy and a lot of people seemed to be having a good time outside drinking. Inside, there were even more people happily drinking. McGrady's appeared to be crowded with a lot of people drinking. So if that is your idea of having a good time, you should be very happy there.

As for us, we got back in our car and drove home.

[flower7330@gmail.com]

There is nothing on the TV app referencing the opening of entertainment in Sawgrass.
We happened to be there yesterday and I asked someone and they said it starts tonight but I can find any info on who is playing or any details.

[John Mayes]

There is nothing on the TV app referencing the opening of entertainment in Sawgrass.
We happened to be there yesterday and I asked someone and they said it starts tonight but I can find any info on who is playing or any details.


Entertainment set for Sawgrass Grove debut | News | The Villages Daily Sun | thevillagesdailysun.com (https://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/villages/entertainment-set-for-sawgrass-grove-debut/article_bbc106e0-502f-11ed-bfff-2fc996d7942c.html)

[rsmurano]

According to Facebook, the entertainment begins at Sawgrass today. It looks like there are tables under the canopies.

If anyone goes, please give an update.

We are there now. Great turnout. Band is really good, but the acoustics are terrible! They need to hire professional mixing engineers or get new speakers, or both.
Bass is bloated, can’t hear the guitar, can’t hear the organ or the singer.
The mixing is much better at the other squares.
There are guys up in the engineer room but are just talking to each other.

Update: we were sitting to the left of the stage near the market place opening. We left early and when we were walking out, the acoustics were much better, much better. You could hear the guitar, the organ, and the singers.
I would suggest that the sound engineers walk around the “whole” place to see if there are any holes in the sound and make the necessary speaker adjustments.
Really good band, just wish the sound was better up front and to the side

[coffeebean]

According to Facebook, the entertainment begins at Sawgrass today. It looks like there are tables under the canopies.

If anyone goes, please give an update.

The weather is spectacular for outdoor entertainment today.

[coffeebean]

There is nothing on the TV app referencing the opening of entertainment in Sawgrass.
We happened to be there yesterday and I asked someone and they said it starts tonight but I can find any info on who is playing or any details.

Johnny Wild and the Delights (full band) is scheduled to play Sawgrass on Oct. 22. Here is his schedule through October........

Johnny Wild and the Delights |- SHOWS (https://www.johnnywild.com/shows)

[HawkinsGuy]

We are there now. Great turnout. Band is really good, but the acoustics are terrible! They need to hire professional mixing engineers or get new speakers, or both.
Bass is bloated, can’t hear the guitar, can’t hear the organ or the singer.
The mixing is much better at the other squares.
There are guys up in the engineer room but are just talking to each

We went there today and left after 15 minutes. The acoustics are worse than awful. I would absolutely refuse to play that venue. The price of wine was outrageous. It was $6.96 for a 4 oz pour. So, with $1.00 tip, was $8.00!!!! Happy hour is 3-5. Due to poor acoustics it was very loud; I could hardly hear my wife speaking with me. For now, I don’t believe we will be going back. It is far from fun and very expensive. I suggest it’s a big failure for now.

[JMintzer]

I have a golfing buddy who went last night. He had a great time and said it was packed, even with the cold weather...

AFA the "acoustics" go, it's an outside venue. The acoustics aren't the problem. Its whomever is running the sound board. Give it a minute. They'll figure it out...

You never know how it will sound until you get there, with a crowd of people...

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

After walking around Hogeye and resting at Edna's, we went to Sawgrass to see how it is.

It was crowded and very noisy and a lot of people seemed to be having a good time outside drinking. Inside, there were even more people happily drinking. McGrady's appeared to be crowded with a lot of people drinking. So if that is your idea of having a good time, you should be very happy there.

As for us, we got back in our car and drove home. OMG people drinking and having a great happy time , HOW DARE THEY??

[Djean1981]

We have no interest in alcohol.. So, it's probably not for us.

[Stu from NYC]

Is there enough seating to handle a decent sized crowd?

[rsmurano]

I have a golfing buddy who went last night. He had a great time and said it was packed, even with the cold weather...

AFA the "acoustics" go, it's an outside venue. The acoustics aren't the problem. Its whomever is running the sound board. Give it a minute. They'll figure it out...

You never know how it will sound until you get there, with a crowd of people...

I’m an audiophile and have been to dozens of outside concerts with thousands of people that sounded fantastic, and they can sound much better than an inside concert.

Read my update on the sound as I was leaving

[Rainger99]

Is there enough seating to handle a decent sized crowd?

Got there at 5 - just after happy hour ended. I think the other squares happy hour is during the first hour of music. All of the tables were taken.

First song started at 5:10 but then they took a break until 6 - which apparently was the start time. About 150 were sitting around the perimeter in chairs they brought with them. Acoustics were bad and if you were near the back, you couldn’t see the stage. Amphitheater seating - like the Romans used 2000 years ago is a great idea. It allows everyone to see.

People were drinking and the parking lot was pretty full. Steady stream of people arriving as I left. Nice weather and beautiful sunset.

[Kenswing]

We have no interest in alcohol.. So, it's probably not for us.

We don't drink at all and had a great time.

They certainly need to do something about crowd control. If the fire marshall saw that place tonight it would have been shut down. They didn't have anyone keeping isles clear for ingress/egress like they do at the squares. I'm sure that will change now that they can see what it will be like.

As noted the sound wasn't great but got surprising better in the parking lot. lol

[B-flat]

OMG people drinking and having a great happy time , HOW DARE THEY??

Good luck, been there done that as a younger person. I've had enough nightclubs, bands and booze to last a lifetime. I have 2 pennies that would bet some of those drinkers probably shouldn't be drinking.

[JeanC]

We have no interest in alcohol.. So, it's probably not for us.

There is no rule that says you have to have alcohol

[asianthree]

Didn't read the rules that alcoholic beverages were mandatory....

Is that the case at all the music venues in TV. Cause guessing those with a chip in their pocket can and will enjoy a night out no matter what soda is in their glass

[John Mayes]

I have a golfing buddy who went last night. He had a great time and said it was packed, even with the cold weather...

AFA the "acoustics" go, it's an outside venue. The acoustics aren't the problem. Its whomever is running the sound board. Give it a minute. They'll figure it out...

You never know how it will sound until you get there, with a crowd of people...

Totally agree. Equipment is fine. Mixers aren’t all equal.

[westernrider75]

There is nothing on the TV app referencing the opening of entertainment in Sawgrass.
We happened to be there yesterday and I asked someone and they said it starts tonight but I can find any info on who is playing or any details.

The information was all in The Villages Sun on Thursday

[NoMo50]

We went with a group of friends to check out the grand opening. The band Penta was playing, and they are very good...in spite of the challenges with the sound "engineers." The crowd was large, as anticipated.

They had done sound checks a couple of days prior to the opening, but in fairness, it is not the same as when you have a capacity crowd. I'm sure some tweaks will be made, and everything will work out in time.

I'm glad Sawgrass is finally open. It's a fun venue, and everyone there was having a good time. Isn't that what it's all about?

[BlueStarAirlines]

There is nothing on the TV app referencing the opening of entertainment in Sawgrass.
We happened to be there yesterday and I asked someone and they said it starts tonight but I can find any info on who is playing or any details.

It was on their website yesterday morning:

Front Page - The Villages Entertainment (https://www.thevillagesentertainment.com/)

[kayak]

Is there a web cam at Sawgrass like at the three squares? If so does anyone know the link?

[bowlingal]

go to villages-net.com for information

[Rainger99]

The information was all in The Villages Sun on Thursday

A lot of people don’t get the Sun and use the app instead. I just went to the app and clicked on calendar for activities and I could not find anything relating to entertainment at Sawgrass.

They should put it in the Sun and the app.

[retiredguy123]

go to villages-net.com for information
Do you mean

thevillages.net

[Sunny923!]

We have no interest in alcohol.. So, it's probably not for us.

So sad! Alcohol is not a mandate for having fun and enjoying musical entertainment with friends. Try it sometime, you may find it works for you!

[Conniehar]

We went and had a great time. And we didn’t drink! SMH. It was packed! The tables and lounge chairs make it a cute place but they are not practical for the crowd this place will draw. They waste a lot of space so people were trying to get their chairs to fit in odd places. The walkways were packed with people and chairs. The chair police from the other squares would have been busy. The dance area was fairly small because of the people putting their chairs up there. They need a different solution for this place. Penta was great!

[kendi]

So sad! Alcohol is not a mandate for having fun and enjoying musical entertainment with friends. Try it sometime, you may find it works for you!

Funny that drinkers get so offended by non drinkers. Touching a sensitive spot no doubt.

[Marathon Man]

Funny that drinkers get so offended by non drinkers. Touching a sensitive spot no doubt.

I read the comments. No one was offended. Just questioning why someone would avoid a place because they serve drinks with the food and entertainment.

[Marathon Man]

We went there today and left after 15 minutes. The acoustics are worse than awful. I would absolutely refuse to play that venue. The price of wine was outrageous. It was $6.96 for a 4 oz pour. So, with $1.00 tip, was $8.00!!!! Happy hour is 3-5. Due to poor acoustics it was very loud; I could hardly hear my wife speaking with me. For now, I don’t believe we will be going back. It is far from fun and very expensive. I suggest it’s a big failure for now.

Yes, a big failure because there were too many people there.

[shut the front door]

Funny that drinkers get so offended by non drinkers. Touching a sensitive spot no doubt.

Quite the opposite is happening in this thread. #readingcomprehension

[Gettingoutofdodge]

[QUOTE=Papa_lecki;2149140]According to Facebook, the entertainment begins at Sawgrass today. It looks like there are tables under the canopies.

I have friends that went last night and it was open and there was a band playing. It was crowded. I’m going tonight.

[Nucky]

It was great. We don’t drink either but it was great to see everyone having a blast. Better than sitting inside for a couple of years waiting to go outside to see some entertainment.

Mark us down as very happy for the entertainment.

[Villager-Wannabe]

Good band, good weather, friendly crowd, life was good at Sawgrass Grove last night. I only saw one Villages Security person; more is needed to keep a path open along the walkways and for some general crowd control. Also, they need more trash receptacles.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

[QUOTE=B-flat;2149249]Good luck, been there done that as a younger person. I've had enough nightclubs, bands and booze to last a lifetime. I have 2 pennies that would bet some of those drinkers probably shouldn't be drinking.[/QUOTE/////

[Groovejet]

The Villages official Instagram account, @thevillages, went live there last night. You mostly just saw the stage, but it would occasionally pan back to where people were sitting. The 11 minute clip is on their Instagram page, if you're interested.

[Chi-Town]

It's a nice addition to have an entertainment venue like that south of 44. And a larger one to come.

[Papa_lecki]

Yes, a big failure because there were too many people there.

No one will ever go to Sawgrass Grove - it’s too crowded.

[Papa_lecki]

Good band, good weather, friendly crowd, life was good at Sawgrass Grove last night.

I gotta say, this is the attitude. A beautiful night in Florida, music, friendly people, etc.

[JoMar]

No one will ever go to Sawgrass Grove - it’s too crowded.

A Yogi ism :)

[Stu from NYC]

A Yogi ism :)

Yogi actually said, Nobody goes there anymore it is too crowded.

[Bilyclub]

We are there now. Great turnout. Band is really good, but the acoustics are terrible! They need to hire professional mixing engineers or get new speakers, or both.
Bass is bloated, can’t hear the guitar, can’t hear the organ or the singer.
The mixing is much better at the other squares.
There are guys up in the engineer room but are just talking to each other.

Update: we were sitting to the left of the stage near the market place opening. We left early and when we were walking out, the acoustics were much better, much better. You could hear the guitar, the organ, and the singers.
I would suggest that the sound engineers walk around the “whole” place to see if there are any holes in the sound and make the necessary speaker adjustments.
Really good band, just wish the sound was better up front and to the side

The sound guys are always walking around the squares with their I-Pads tweaking things. Dealing with a new venue is always tough. Wonder how the "roof" figures in the equation. How was the parking lot ?

[asianthree]

It was great. We don’t drink either but it was great to see everyone having a blast. Better than sitting inside for a couple of years waiting to go outside to see some entertainment.

Mark us down as very happy for the entertainment.

Glad you had a great time. We finished golf and stopped by for a few. Everyone seemed to be having a great time. Tables are interesting, I wonder if they will stack them for Rocky and the Rollers, or Wild, to give more room. Inside the food venders seemed to be busier then prior to Opening. So far not many complaints about cost now that music is happening:a040:
Nucky Did you drive down by car or cart?

[coffeebean]

Johnny Wild is playing Sawgrass tonight. It will be interesting to see how the venue handles the crowd.

[asianthree]

Johnny Wild is playing Sawgrass tonight. It will be interesting to see how the venue handles the crowd.

We r visiting with friend at ST Cat plan to do a walk through later in the night. Since it touted as same size as Brownwood without bleachers, not having tables might be a good thing.. expect to see more staff tonight, if they have them

[Nucky]

Glad you had a great time. We finished golf and stopped by for a few. Everyone seemed to be having a great time. Tables are interesting, I wonder if they will stack them for Rocky and the Rollers, or Wild, to give more room. Inside the food venders seemed to be busier then prior to Opening. So far not many complaints about cost now that music is happening:a040:
Nucky Did you drive down by car or cart?

Car in the morning and Cart at about 4 PM. It took about an hour or so but we were making a few stops on the way! It was a hike. We went all the way to the end first. Charlee Villas I believe. It was really fun coming back in the dark around 10PM. I made a few wrong turns but it reminded us of when we were brand new and got lost up this way. I have the App but I don’t mind goofing up, I wouldn’t get lost the next time we go by Golf Cart.

[gweisheipl]

And too small. Why would the developer and planners build such a beautiful venue so small? I would understand it if they never had any experience doing this, but that isn’t the case! Just my opinion.

[dewilson58]

And too small. Why would the developer and planners build such a beautiful venue so small? I would understand it if they never had any experience doing this, but that isn’t the case! Just my opinion.

Watch TV videos.
They explain.

[Nucky]

Who the hell would be dumb enough to stay inside for a couple of years?

Yes I’m busted. That’s exactly what I said and meant. We wouldn’t leave the house for two years. We wouldn’t go to a gathering of people inside or outside even though the chance of catching or transmitting something is less outside?No?

Someone who has been directed by their doctor to stay inside for two years would be dumb to follow the Doctors directions I guess Jethro.

I’m in a great mood after my beautiful round trip and the entertainment the other night. Think what you will. Who gives a hoot! I gave you to much of my time already.

[asianthree]

Car in the morning and Cart at about 4 PM. It took about an hour or so but we were making a few stops on the way! It was a hike. We went all the way to the end first. Charlee Villas I believe. It was really fun coming back in the dark around 10PM. I made a few wrong turns but it reminded us of when we were brand new and got lost up this way. I have the App but I don’t mind goofing up, I wouldn’t get lost the next time we go by Golf Cart.

You did Pretty good time… in 07 on second visit, we went from Caroline, to SS for a movie. It was 9 pm driving back, so lost had to get corrected directions twice. So I get the dark ride for you.

Glad you made your way down…give those who complain about distance an idea of fun can be had, even if it’s not in their backyard. Thanks for the post.

[Bilyclub]

Good band, good weather, friendly crowd, life was good at Sawgrass Grove last night. I only saw one Villages Security person; more is needed to keep a path open along the walkways and for some general crowd control. Also, they need more trash receptacles.


Brownwood had 4 crowd control people which is 1 more than the usual 3. They must have upped it due to the crowds getting bigger. So much for the theory that when Sawgrass opened it would draw off some of the Brownwood crowd.

[Stu from NYC]

Brownwood had 4 crowd control people which is 1 more than the usual 3. They must have upped it due to the crowds getting bigger. So much for the theory that when Sawgrass opened it would draw off some of the Brownwood crowd.

Well first of all the snowbirds are back and add all the new homeowners since last year and would expect crowds with a popular band playing.

[Stu from NYC]

As I understand it there is no seating for an audience only tables to sit at while eating or drinking.

Is this true

[beckylou152]

We went Thursday and Friday nights, and were pleasantly surprised. The tables are great, as people could gather with their companions and listen to the music and chat. The sound needs a little work but should improve. Love the canopies with the orange lights. It was great to see the marketplace hopping with lots of folks buying food. The prices on alcohol have decreased - drafts were $3.50 and up. Wine was $6. It was after happy hour. Many folks were not drinking, many were, just like at any venue. I know there are a lot of haters who seem so negative about the southern area, but if you realize this is not a town square it helps. This is a new concept - larger than Edna’s, but smaller than LSL. It is convenient for the southern area, unique, and a place to enjoy good music, food, and fun. Come if you want, don’t if you don’t want.

[dewilson58]

but if you realize this is not a town square it helps.

Bingo

[dewilson58]

As I understand it there is no seating for an audience only tables to sit at while eating or drinking.

Is this true

True, but since the capacity is reduced by the tables............hopefully the seats are not taken by water drinkers (or outside cocktails) and it turns into another Katie Belle's.

[PugMom]

Johnny Wild is playing Sawgrass tonight. It will be interesting to see how the venue handles the crowd.

:22yikes::highfive: i'm almost tempted to try going! last nite was paisley craze-- looks like they're inviting the top talent of entertainment. that stage would be really good for Bobby Blackmon, very atmospheric, imo

[Altavia]

....

This is a new concept - larger than Edna’s, but smaller than LSL.

It is convenient for the southern area, unique, and a place to enjoy good music, food, and fun. Come if you want, don’t if you don’t want.



Good summary.

Eastport will have a much larger area with amphitheater seating across the lake.

I love how The Villages does contineous improvements is and not afraid to try something new.

Continuing The Dream: Volume 17 (https://www.nxtbook.com/thevillages/TheVillages/ContinuingTheDream_Vol17/index.php)

[Stu from NYC]

True, but since the capacity is reduced by the tables............hopefully the seats are not taken by water drinkers (or outside cocktails) and it turns into another Katie Belle's.

When we go to the squares now we typically go for the 5 oclock set and than off to dinner at a nearby restaurant after the first or second set.

Guess this will not be the place for us than.

[Boston-Sean]

Hopefully the loud music won't disturb the people on the turnpike.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

True, but since the capacity is reduced by the tables............hopefully the seats are not taken by water drinkers (or outside cocktails) and it turns into another Katie Belle's. nice dream , but we all know that’s what will happen if they don’t do some kind of enforcement, can’t wait for the first fight when someone is sitting at a table for an hour waiting for friends who may or may not show up

[Babubhat]

Hopefully the loud music won't disturb the people on the turnpike.

Why I am thankful for the ignore list

[dewilson58]

if they don’t do some kind of enforcement,

enforcement of what???

are there rules in place???................have not heard of any.

[Stu from NYC]

Why I am thankful for the ignore list

I thought it was funny:crap2:

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

enforcement of what???

are there rules in place???................have not heard of any.

Wrong choice of words but Katie bell tried a lot of different things from 2 drinks to not saving tables , and some others I don’t remember ,but.I know they had trouble when people couldn’t find a seat and one person was sitting at table , for me it as more fun there when they let locals in once they went private again slow decline , I never bothered going anymore ,that’s what I meant about saw grass

[Gettingoutofdodge]

[QUOTE=Papa_lecki;2149140]According to Facebook, the entertainment begins at Sawgrass today. It looks like there are tables under the canopies.

I went yesterday and it was wonderful. As usual, the Villages created nothing less than spectacular. The place is delightful. The 🍊 trees were beautiful and did a good job shading you from the sun. The music was really good and for those that drink, there were three bars. The Long Island Ice Tea was the best I’ve ever had. You can buy food and eat on the tables outside. I had the pizza and it was pretty good. My friend had a burger and she said it was really good. You can also take out from McGrady’s.
I went with friends and we all had a really good time. Go, you will love it.

[Calisport]

I live a few blocks away. Don't hear loud music yet but a few days ago I noticed the bar open outside and 15 people at the bar. No one anywhere else. A few in the Mcgradys bar.

[HoosierPa]

After walking around Hogeye and resting at Edna's, we went to Sawgrass to see how it is.

It was crowded and very noisy and a lot of people seemed to be having a good time outside drinking. Inside, there were even more people happily drinking. McGrady's appeared to be crowded with a lot of people drinking. So if that is your idea of having a good time, you should be very happy there.

As for us, we got back in our car and drove home.

Why didn’t you stay and listen to the music and drink a glass of water, soda, tea or just dance? Sounds like you weren’t really looking to have fun.

[Stu from NYC]

Why didn’t you stay and listen to the music and drink a glass of water, soda, tea or just dance. Sounds like you weren’t really looking to have fun.

Perhaps they did not like the type of music the band was playing?

[HoosierPa]

And too small. Why would the developer and planners build such a beautiful venue so small? I would understand it if they never had any experience doing this, but that isn’t the case! Just my opinion.

It’s not too small IMO. Perfect as far as I am concerned.

[HoosierPa]

You did Pretty good time… in 07 on second visit, we went from Caroline, to SS for a movie. It was 9 pm driving back, so lost had to get corrected directions twice. So I get the dark ride for you.

Glad you made your way down…give those who complain about distance an idea of fun can be had, even if it’s not in their backyard. Thanks for the post.

Love the location. It’s a 4
Minute walk from my house ! Woo Hoo!

[VApeople]

Sounds like you weren’t really looking to have fun.

Yeah, that's right. We had a very nice walk around Hogeye and I was pretty tired, but we wanted to see what Sawgrass was like. If we come back, we will be sure to bring our own chairs.

[Garywt]

After walking around Hogeye and resting at Edna's, we went to Sawgrass to see how it is.

It was crowded and very noisy and a lot of people seemed to be having a good time outside drinking. Inside, there were even more people happily drinking. McGrady's appeared to be crowded with a lot of people drinking. So if that is your idea of having a good time, you should be very happy there.

As for us, we got back in our car and drove home.

Seems like you have an issue with people drinking. Was the noise the music or were there other things that made it noisy

[Garywt]

We have no interest in alcohol.. So, it's probably not for us.

Do you realize that the town squares as well as restaurants serve alcohol. Just because it is available does not mean you have to order any. For the most part I drink good old lemonade wherever I go.

[Bilyclub]

I did not see any hard liquor prices at the outside bars, nor did I see any bottles behind the bar. Are they selling anything besides beer, wine, and the drink of the day ? I did buy a double jack and coke inside the marketplace and it was way more than what it cost at the real squares. All in all , two burgers and my drink was over $40. I guess they are gearing it for tourists.

[vintageogauge]

I did not see any hard liquor prices at the outside bars, nor did I see any bottles behind the bar. Are they selling anything besides beer, wine, and the drink of the day ? I did buy a double jack and coke inside the marketplace and it was way more than what it cost at the real squares. All in all , two burgers and my drink was over $40. I guess they are gearing it for tourists.

Why not break it down? How much were the burgers and how much for a Double with coke? $40.00 sounds about right.

[Rainger99]

Does anyone know if drinks are more expensive in Sawgrass than at the Squares? Draft beers at Sawgrass are from $3.99 (Bud, Miller, Michelob, Yuengling) and $6.00 for the rest (Sam Adams, Islamorada, Crooked Can, etc.). The plastic glasses are quite small. Cans range from PBR at $4 to Bud, Coors, Miller, Corona, at $4.50 and then $6.00 for the rest (Heineken, Stella, Lagunita, etc.). Wine is $6.50 and soda is $3.00. The drink of the day is $7.00. Half price on all domestic draft beer and wine from 3-5. The shows start at 6.

What are the prices and specials at the Squares?

[Djean1981]

OMG people drinking and having a great happy time , HOW DARE THEY??
They didn't say, "how dare they," you did. Being around a heavy drinking environment doesn't interest everyone.

[dewilson58]

Being around a heavy drinking environment doesn't interest everyone.

Jus because you have no interest in a cocktail, doesn't make every place serving a "heavy drinking environment".

Been here 10 years, never seen any of the squares as a "h d e".

Heavy drinker are the minority, extreme minority.

[VApeople]

Wrong choice of words but Katie bell tried a lot of different things from 2 drinks to not saving tables , and some others I don’t remember ,but.I know they had trouble when people couldn’t find a seat and one person was sitting at table , for me it as more fun there when they let locals in once they went private again slow decline , I never bothered going anymore ,that’s what I meant about saw grass

Can someone please help me understand this post?

[dewilson58]

Can someone please help me understand this post?

lots of parts to the post, which piece don't you understand

[Stu from NYC]

Can someone please help me understand this post?

You might want to read his previous post and than read this one again. Understand it completely.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Can someone please help me understand this post?please see post 66 , I was answering about people sitting at tables at sawgrass and hoping the same things that happened at Katie Bell won’t happen at Sawgrass, like people not buying anything and one person saving tables for an hour , sorry if it wasn’t clear to you, but I’m out at the squares at night having a drink and a happy time so maybe it was my fault

[coffeebean]

It’s not too small IMO. Perfect as far as I am concerned.

Now that you mention the venue is not too small..........anyone see Johnny Wild last night at Sawgrass? Just wondering how the venue handled the crowd.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

We are there now. Great turnout. Band is really good, but the acoustics are terrible! They need to hire professional mixing engineers or get new speakers, or both.
Bass is bloated, can’t hear the guitar, can’t hear the organ or the singer.
The mixing is much better at the other squares.
There are guys up in the engineer room but are just talking to each other.

Update: we were sitting to the left of the stage near the market place opening. We left early and when we were walking out, the acoustics were much better, much better. You could hear the guitar, the organ, and the singers.
I would suggest that the sound engineers walk around the “whole” place to see if there are any holes in the sound and make the necessary speaker adjustments.
Really good band, just wish the sound was better up front and to the side

The better sound engineers do exactly what you suggest. Many of them however set the sound and leave the booth to do who knows what.

I've played in the squares and couldn't find a sound guy when I needed him to adjust my monitor.

You also should understand that The Villages Entertainment don't provide time for a sound check before playing. Sound check is basically done over the first half hour of the show. And many times when it needs adjusting after that there's no one to do it.

Again, some of the sound men, one I know in particular are very conscientious but some couldn't care less.

In the long run, it doesn't matter because IMHO Sawgrass is going to die. Like a lot of new things in The Villages there is a lot of interest but I see too many problems with Sawgrass. First, there is not enough parking for both the rec center and the square. The square itself is much smaller than the other squares. The drink prices are absurd.

I was told by a Villages sales rep that Sawgrass is intended for the area around it only. They don't think or want people from north of Warm Springs down there.

I was at the Market Place last week and it was dead. I ate at McGrady's and it was almost empty. Won't be going back to either.

[Rainger99]

Now that you mention the venue is not too small..........anyone see Johnny Wild last night at Sawgrass? Just wondering how the venue handled the crowd.

It was crowded. The center area - tables and chairs - takes up a lot of room. If it just had chairs, it could double the number of people in the center area. The sides and back area are packed with people sitting in portable chairs. Unlike the Squares, however, the sides are very limited. You have McGrady's to the right and Sawgrass Market on the left which restrict the area for chairs. Also, you can't park on the street with a golf car and watch and hear the music like you can at the other three venues. If you count the street parking and the sidewalks in the Squares, I think that the squares would hold at least 2 to 3 times as many people as Sawgrass can hold. So Sawgrass should always be crowded.

[Villager-Wannabe]

Now that you mention the venue is not too small..........anyone see Johnny Wild last night at Sawgrass? Just wondering how the venue handled the crowd.
I saw Johnny Wild last night. The venue wasn't as crowded as it was on the opening night with Penta. You could easily snake through the walkways on each side. There was plenty of room to dance in front of the stage. Most of the parking spaces were taken closest to the entrance, but the distant parking areas had plenty of vacant spaces. The lines at the Bar Hut were non-existent to much shorter. The band was entertaining and sounded good and I always enjoyed Johnny's sense of humor.

One other thing I noticed is that the band took a 30 minute break between sets instead of the typical 15 minute breaks.

[coffeebean]

It was crowded. The center area - tables and chairs - takes up a lot of room. If it just had chairs, it could double the number of people in the center area. The sides and back area are packed with people sitting in portable chairs. Unlike the Squares, however, the sides are very limited. You have McGrady's to the right and Sawgrass Market on the left which restrict the area for chairs. Also, you can't park on the street with a golf car and watch and hear the music like you can at the other three venues. If you count the street parking and the sidewalks in the Squares, I think that the squares would hold at least 2 to 3 times as many people as Sawgrass can hold. So Sawgrass should always be crowded.

Why hire the very popular bands for a venue that is too small to handle the crowds? At least for Edna's, Johnny Wild's Trio plays that venue; not the full band.

Sawgrass is not a regular town square like Spanish Springs, Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood. Those squares welcome everyone whether they are Villagers or not. Folks in the southern villages will have to wait for Eastport to open to have a real square that is in close proximity to where they live.

[John Mayes]

Why hire the very popular bands for a venue that is too small to handle the crowds? At least for Edna's, Johnny Wild's Trio plays that venue; not the full band.

Sawgrass is not a regular town square like Spanish Springs, Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood. Those squares welcome everyone whether they are Villagers or not. Folks in the southern villages will have to wait for Eastport to open to have a real square that is in close proximity to where they live.

I was there last night for Johnny Wild and the area handled the crowd very well, in my opinion. We ate outdoors at McGrady’s during the first set. The crowd thinned after the second set. Parking is not an issue even though it seems that many people worry about it.

The sound was vastly better last night than the first night with Penta.

As others have mentioned, the area is unique. It was never planned to be a square but can handle the more popular groups without much issue.

I think the charm is that it can be used a multi-functional venue. It was mentioned on TV website update section that it may be used for sports events such as tournaments and such sort of like a large outdoor sports bar.

Even though the delayed opening was frustrating, I think the final product turned out very well.

Of course, the fact that I’m six minutes by cart from there probably slants my opinion. LOL.

[VApeople]

hoping the same things that happened at Katie Bell won’t happen at Sawgrass

OK, now I understand the point you were making.

I have only been here six years and all I know about Katie Bells is what I read in Leisureville.

Personally, I don't care what happens at Sawgrass. If it turns out to be a place that we enjoy, we will go there. If not, then we won't.

[coffeebean]

I was there last night for Johnny Wild and the area handled the crowd very well, in my opinion. We ate outdoors at McGrady’s during the first set. The crowd thinned after the second set. Parking is not an issue even though it seems that many people worry about it.

The sound was vastly better last night than the first night with Penta.

As others have mentioned, the area is unique. It was never planned to be a square but can handle the more popular groups without much issue.

I think the charm is that it can be used a multi-functional venue. It was mentioned on TV website update section that it may be used for sports events such as tournaments and such sort of like a large outdoor sports bar.

Even though the delayed opening was frustrating, I think the final product turned out very well.

Of course, the fact that I’m six minutes by cart from there probably slants my opinion. LOL.

Thanks for your input. Good to know the venue handled the crowd well. I'm still leery about the parking though.

[Stu from NYC]

Why hire the very popular bands for a venue that is too small to handle the crowds? At least for Edna's, Johnny Wild's Trio plays that venue; not the full band.

Sawgrass is not a regular town square like Spanish Springs, Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood. Those squares welcome everyone whether they are Villagers or not. Folks in the southern villages will have to wait for Eastport to open to have a real square that is in close proximity to where they live.

Think you are right

[asianthree]

Thanks for your input. Good to know the venue handled the crowd well. I'm still leery about the parking though.

Had zero problems parking at sawgrass last night.. however at Richmond Pitch and Putt all cart spaces were taken, and half of the car parking lot this morning. Wheee that was a long walk from parking, to walk the course:22yikes::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Bilyclub]

Why not break it down? How much were the burgers and how much for a Double with coke? $40.00 sounds about right.

$25 for the burgers, $15 for the drink. Big increase compared to the $9.50 at the bar shacks.

[Aacosner]

I saw Johnny Wild last night. The venue wasn't as crowded as it was on the opening night with Penta. You could easily snake through the walkways on each side. There was plenty of room to dance in front of the stage. Most of the parking spaces were taken closest to the entrance, but the distant parking areas had plenty of vacant spaces. The lines at the Bar Hut were non-existent to much shorter. The band was entertaining and sounded good and I always enjoyed Johnny's sense of humor.

One other thing I noticed is that the band took a 30 minute break between sets instead of the typical 15 minute breaks.

I also was there last night when Johnny Wild played, and this is an accurate summary on all points. Chairs were placed between tables, in front, on the sides, and in back -- it wasn't jammed up, and the chairs didn't stretch past the bar at the back. Just a very nice overall environment with a seating area that felt similar in size to Brownwood. There was no problem walking anywhere because there were no long continuous lines of chairs. Lots of carts parked on the grass by the cart path -- that option brings huge extra capacity for golf cart parking.

The sound clarity needs improvement. It needs some professional sound people to sort it out and work out changes.

Unfortunately, Johnny Wild always takes long breaks. The breaks at Sawgrass were exactly the same as what he's been doing at the squares recently, but it still was a good show.

Bottom line, it was a quite enjoyable evening. I'll be back.

[Bilyclub]

I also was there last night when Johnny Wild played, and this is an accurate summary on all points. Chairs were placed between tables, in front, on the sides, and in back -- it wasn't jammed up, and the chairs didn't stretch past the bar at the back. Just a very nice overall environment with a seating area that felt similar in size to Brownwood. There was no problem walking anywhere because there were no long continuous lines of chairs. Lots of carts parked on the grass by the cart path -- that option brings huge extra capacity for golf cart parking.

The sound clarity needs improvement. It needs some professional sound people to sort it out and work out changes.

Unfortunately, Johnny Wild always takes long breaks. The breaks at Sawgrass were exactly the same as what he's been doing at the squares recently, but it still was a good show.

Bottom line, it was a quite enjoyable evening. I'll be back.

Andy's whole family is there so it's like a family party and the breaks might be a little longer. There are a few others taking way longer breaks leaving a last set shorter than 30 minutes.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Waited in the parking lot for a golf cart tow after 18 holes, battery issue, my fault, and the music was pretty loud at the beginning, but became better over time. Many, many people parked on the grass along the road. Not sure that will last very long due to the landscaping required to maintain a grass parking lot. If all the carts from the grass along the road parked in the lot, there will be parking issues. However, its the grand opening so its more of a curiosity than a regular destination at the moment. It will be a local place, but there aren't many options for those who like to choose different places to eat each time.

food and restaurant review guy

[Chi-Town]

$25 for the burgers, $15 for the drink. Big increase compared to the $9.50 at the bar shacks.


Bar shacks raised the price of a call double to $11.00

[Bilyclub]

Bar shacks raised the price of a call double to $11.00

Thanks for that good news. At least the cup is bigger at the bar shacks than at Sawgrass. What's it going for at the joints surrounding the squares ?

[EdFNJ]

I did not see any hard liquor prices at the outside bars, nor did I see any bottles behind the bar. Are they selling anything besides beer, wine, and the drink of the day ? I did buy a double jack and coke inside the marketplace and it was way more than what it cost at the real squares. All in all , two burgers and my drink was over $40. I guess they are gearing it for tourists. Inflation. Went to the huge arts & crafts show in Mt Dora and a tiny little hot dog was selling for $7 that they used to sell for $4... and a banana nut muffin was $7 (from the guy who sells at Sawgrass) and was like eating 3 day old newspaper because it was probably sitting in the sun all day and the relatively close private parking lots that for the last 5 years used to be $10 were $20 and the $5 spots were $10. If people pay the price they will just keep it up.

The show itself was great. Every street was totally packed with vendors.