This Saturday, September 17, starting at 3 p.m. the Maison on Frenchmen Street will be hosting a one-of-a-kind political rally modeled after old-school populist hootenannies. It’s called Grab the Vote, and comes complete with brass bands, DJs, food and drinks.

The event, according to Grab the Vote creator and Maison owner Jeff Bromberger, is “non-partisan, despite the fact that I was raised a diaper Democrat.” He went on to say that no candidates will be endorsed, as the event simply aims to “educate and give some historical context.” The main enemy, says Bromberger, is apathy. “I have always voted, but I didn’t always feel like my voice was being heard. It’s easy to fall into that, and forget the importance of every vote.”

Grab the Vote will feature live music from Brass-a-holics and Yojimbo, aiming to reach a younger audience that’s more politically disinterested. There will be a straw poll to drum up enthusiasm, and a voter registration drive will be in effect during the entire event.

Considering the troubles eternally facing our city, it is difficult to imagine who wouldn’t support such an inviting and informative celebration of our democratic rights. “Not only does New Orleans need events like this,” Bromberger added, “America needs events like this.”