The Colgate Country Showdown is the nation's largest country music talent search, and this week the 28th annual edition comes to the Rochester Public Market as part of the Bands on the Bricks concert series. A dozen hopefuls from across the Northeast will gather to perform their music in an effort to advance to the state championships at the New York State Fair. State winners then move on to a regional contest, where the field will be narrowed to five finalists who will vie for the ultimate prizes - $100,000 and a recording contract - at the national showdown. The trip starts in Rochester when the local event will be hosted by former showdown state finalists Johnny Bauer and Great Escape, and also featuring a performance by Nashville recording artist Derek Joseph.

Colgate Country Showdown

Friday, August 14

Rochester Public Market, 280 N Union St

7 p.m. | Free | 482-9667