In a salute to rock music, Zippo will host an inaugural Zippo Fest on Saturday, July 18, 2009. The festival will provide fans with an opportunity to celebrate two of America’s favorite things—Zippo lighters and live music. Fan Fest is expected to draw thousands to the grounds of the Zippo/Case Museum for a one-day celebration of music and collecting.

Eight bands will be rocking from the Zippo stage in the afternoon and evening. Bands will include local and regional acts and a national headliner to be announced this spring. A nominal fee will be charged to enter the grounds, with proceeds to support local charities.

As in past summer events, Zippo fans will have the chance to see unique collections of Zippo lighters at the Collector’s Showcase tents. A special edition Zippo Fest lighter will be available for purchase at the Zippo/Case Museum store and on Zippo.com in April. In a departure from past events, Zippo Fest will take place on one day only.

Celebrity appearances are being planned in conjunction with Zippo licensing and other corporate partners. A Playboy Playmate is scheduled to appear to autograph Playboy lighters. Watkins Glen International’s Racing Only Twisted Tour will make a pit stop so race fans can test their driving skills on the twists and turns of the simulated Glen track. Zippo artist Claudio Mazzi of Zippo Club Italia will be presenting his intricate air brushing skills. A tattoo experience and several other interactive exhibits are also planned.

It wouldn’t be a Zippo summer event without a big food tent plus the Kids and Cancer motorcycle dice run. The ride, sponsored by local bike enthusiasts, will start at noon on Chestnut Street, near the Zippo plant. The day will conclude with a spectacular display of fireworks. A full schedule of Zippo Fest activities will be available online in late spring.

Honoring the enthusiasm of Zippo lighter fans, Zippo Fest is the company’s fifteenth summer celebration since the first National Zippo Day in 1994.