I just love the smells of The Lilac Festival: funnel cakes, kettle corn, and lilacs. I also love the sounds. And this year, those sounds don't smell at all. It's a pretty cool line-up, and the majority of it won't cost you a dime. You can eat, drink, act like a Mary, and dance on the grass to a truckload of fine talent.

There'll be big band with Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and its tribute to "Mr. Hi-de Hi-de Ho," Cab Calloway. There'll be reggae with John Brown's Body, Latin pop with 8 Y Mas, New Orleans boogie andwoogie with Dr. John, and one of my faves, Rickie Lee Jones.

The following shows take place on the Main Stage at 7 p.m., and are free:

Friday, May 8: MC Lars

Saturday, May 9: TBD

Sunday, May 10: Prime Time Funk

Monday, May 11: Jamey Johnson

Tuesday, May 12: 8 Y Mas

Wednesday, May 13: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

Thursday, May 14: Asleep At The Wheel

Friday, May 15: John Brown's Body

Saturday, May 16: The Lost Trailers

These shows take place at the Highland Bowl at 5 p.m., and will be ticketed (prices TBD):

Saturday, May 9: Dr. John w/Rickie Lee Jones

Sunday, May 10: Joan Osborne w/Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes

For more information check the festival website.