This week, we had the pleasure of catching up with Paul Manna, the veteran Baltimore-based independent concert promoter and the owner of 24-7 Entertainment, active in the local music scene since 1997. He is particularly known for booking acts for The Recher as well as organizing major events such as The Shindig Festival, the Charm City Music Festival, and the upcoming Trifecta Food Truck & Music Festival, which has become Maryland’s largest food truck event.
About Trifecta:
The Trifecta Festival is a signature event in Baltimore County, Maryland, celebrated as the state's largest food truck and music festival. Founded in 2016 by Manna, the festival was created to fill a cultural gap in Baltimore County’s event scene, bringing together top food trucks, diverse music, and a vibrant community atmosphere just outside urban Baltimore. It returns this year on Saturday, September 20th. You can find the full lineup of bands and Food Trucks at the bottom of this page.
From its inception, Trifecta has focused on hosting more than forty independently owned food trucks, offering a wide variety of cuisines—barbecue, seafood, vegan, Greek, and much more—while providing opportunities for local artisans and vendors to showcase their crafts. The dedication to local flavor extends to the musical acts, with Trifecta’s lineup featuring beloved regional bands and nationally acclaimed tribute groups. Over the years, headliners have included acts that pay homage to classic bands such as Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin, matching the festival’s mission to entertain crowds of all ages.
Held annually at the Maryland State Fairgrounds, Trifecta has grown in size and reputation each year, becoming a fall tradition for families, music fans, and foodies throughout the region. With affordable ticket prices, free parking, and an ever-diversifying roster of entertainment—from bounce houses and archery to fashion trucks and live rock—Trifecta stands as a testament to Baltimore County’s thriving local culture and the enduring power of community-driven events.
Q&A with Paul Manna
🔥 How did the Trifecta Festival first come together?
“I promoted The Shindig Music Festival at Carroll Park in the city from 2013-2015 and there were many factors out of my control which prompted me to change directions for my next festival. Finding the perfect balance between throwing a big party with quality local food trucks, the best local bands, and providing a space for the entire family to enjoy was the goal. There were no large food truck gatherings being held in Baltimore County at that time, so it made perfect sense. So many of Maryland’s most popular events are held in the city and I felt Baltimore County deserved a fun event like this.”
🔥 What was the very first event like as compared to where you are today?
“The first year of Trifecta was 2016, and we only ran one small stage with six bands, 20 food trucks, and 20 vendors. We occupied maybe half of the infield. The turnout and enthusiasm from the people there it was evident to me that this was something that could grow. Now we have two large stages at either end of the infield, twelve bands, 60+ local vendors and take up the entire infield. There is always a huge crowd in front of each stage, which makes me happy.”
🔥 What challenges have you faced/encountered along the way?
“As you know, with outdoor events, there is always the risk of inclement weather. In 2016, we had the Ellicott City flood, which ended the festival early due to lightning. In 2020, I had two dates scheduled (a Saturday and Sunday) planned for the first time, and the pandemic sidelined that. In 2023, our area was experiencing unusually extremely high wind advisories, which forced me to cancel two days before the festival. That type of curve-ball is something a promoter doesn’t forecast. Even though it was cancelled, my vendors like the stages, sound, lighting, tents, fences, were already set up and still get paid. That was a tough one.”
The Unforgettable Fire, U2 Tribute Band, Plays Trifecta Again This Year
🔥 Can you share a moment at Trifecta when something truly unexpected or hilarious happened behind the scenes—and how did you handle it?
“Ha! The first thing that comes to mind is when the festival was in full swing, and I got a call on the radio telling me there was a baby kangaroo on the field, and was asked what I wanted to do about it. I laughed and made my way over to the crowd surrounding him. Someone brought him in and was charging people to pet him or take a photo with him. Although Joey was cute, I politely asked them to leave.”
🔥 What are you most excited about this year? What's next?
“I really enjoy taking a step back a few times during the day and just watching people having fun. It’s such a diverse crowd, and people enter the gates clearly ready for the festivities. Seeing all the bands and the crowd reaction is always a big thrill for me. There are so many great bands this year, but watching the headliner, Almost Queen: the Tribute to Queen, will be the pinnacle. They are absolutely amazing. I particularly enjoy seeing all of the food trucks and vendors busy all day, and it feels good when they tell me Trifecta is their best day of the year. We spend a lot of time working on this festival, and when it all comes to fruition on the day of, it’s quite satisfying. What’s next? Ask me on September 21, the day after the festival…Ha Ha.
This Year’s Trifecta Lineup
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