Boomtown: Festival merriment in downtown New Albany today.

It seems as though I've been preparing for today since February.

Wait ... I actually have been.

Like most such complex undertakings, the Boomtown Ball simultaneously has functioned as longed-for occurrence and 800-lb gorilla. One thing I can state with certainty: New Albany never has seen anything quite like it.

There'll be a big fenced expanse centered on the farmers market, containing a temporary stage with music from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the Flea Off Market, some local vendors, and the Boomtown Tavern. Outside the enclosure, which must exist according to Indiana state alcohol laws, are New Albany's retail shops, eateries and watering holes, many of them observing special Sunday hours today. Later, around 9:00 p.m., local favorites Houndmouth play a homecoming show at The Grand (it sold out in three days). The Grand purchased ten kegs of Houndmouth for this performance.

Fingers crossed. Let's do this.

Boomtown Ball today, Houndmouth tonight ... and Flea Off, bands, beer and things.