Welcome to Down The Hatch!
Down The Hatch is way more than just an amazing life-changing getaway, it’s a state of mind: “the hatch of life”, if you will. On this section of my site, I’ll share all sorts of random stuff that I simply hope you’ll experience for yourself—heck, maybe even with me. Here you’ll find suggestions on everything from where to take yourself on vacation, to what to put past your lips, to what to open your ears to, to what to bring home and what to leave on the shelves. Yes DTH started as a big ole party, but the idea came to me as a way to share all the nuggets of good times I’ve experienced on the road—everything from music & song-writing to cuisine, travel tips and more. I’ll be on here often blabbin’ about different stuff, so check in and see what’s up.
See ya out there… Enjoy!
Mmm… I can already feel the sand in my toes and hear the ocean crashing on that beautiful North Carolina shoreline: she’s acting as the percussionist for some of the best songwriters our country has to offer. I can feel the love from fellow revelers in what has become known as simply Down The Hatch OBX. It is the ultimate experience for anyone who appreciates the joy of music, the warmth of the sun, and that feeling of gleeful artistic discovery.
That’s right! Down The Hatch OBX Thursday, May 31 – Sunday, June 3, is on sale NOW at: http://pmband.tickets.musictoday.com
Come down to the gorgeous Outer Banks of NC to live the good life. I nudged the date up from previous years to secure the warmest springtime weather. This amazing event, taking place once again at The Ramada Plaza, has taken on a life all its own. It truly is because of the type of artists who share their talents as well as the free-spirited attendees who set the perfect vibe. Those who have been before can attest to how indulgent this weekend is for a music lover.
As your master of ceremonies, I strive to share anything I find to be inspirational: music, destinations, cuisine, and more. At DTH OBX, there will be Thursday night songwriter showcases and Friday & Saturday will be filled with all things DTH: relaxing by the ocean while checking out some incredible artists do their thang; surfing and beach games with the bands; guitar and songwriting lessons with your favorite musicians; endless happy hours; authentic BB-Qs; blowout rock shows at Kelly’s on Friday and Saturday night and so much more to be announced. I may just have a few other things up my sleeve. Expect the unexpected!
The artists chosen for this year’s event are sure to become your new favorites. They’re musicians I’ve had the pleasure of not only sharing the stage with but also quality time on the road. And I can attest that each act brings something special to the weekend. We have some DTH vets returning such as Michael Tolcher, Keaton Simons, and Patrick McAloon; but I am equally excited about the new crop of talent: Ari Hest, Graham Colton, Matt Duke, Kris Orlowski, Kyle Davis and The Sweet Remains.
These guys will have literally traveled from every corner of the country to share their talents with you all weekend long. If you’re already a fan of these acts, you will get an experience so amazing that it will be hard to wipe the perma-grin off your face for the weeks following DTH. And if these are all new names to you, then I have two things to say: trust me and you’re welcome.
Get your tickets now! Rates will go up starting March 1st.
Tickets:
http://pmband.tickets.musictoday.com
$169.00 includes 3-day pass to all events, gift bag upon check in, BB-Q on Saturday, automatic entry to win a signed guitar by all the artists, drink specials and much more.
Hotel INFO:
Ramada Plaza
1701 South Virginia Dare Trail
Kill Devil Hills, NC
I was able to negotiate a killer rate this time of year for Wednesday & Thursday nights
(street-side, $88; dune view, $98; and ocean view, $118) and Friday & Saturday Nights (street-side, $109.00; dune view, $119; and ocean view, $139). All rooms are spacious enough to share with friends and have fridges.
Call the hotel directly at (252) 441-2151. Ask for “PAT MCGEE RATE.”
For those who are flying in we suggest you check out Southwest Airlines (or your favorite airline) to Norfolk, VA. You can rent a car (Priceline rocks!) and drive the hour south to OBX! Once you’re there, most everything is walk-able, but you may want to take a short drive to some of the beautiful local sights and tasty restaurants (I will be providing a list of my recommendations).
This year is gonna be amazing. I, for one, cannot wait!
Down The Hatch! Pat
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Click icons below to see some of “Pat’s Picks”:
