In 1997, Paul Ford and Josh Hatfield, members the band London Scar, joined a handful of other local musicians, pooled what money they had and put together a show with four bands.

There were just over 100 attendees and they had one common goal in mind: to bring the rock scene home. Thus, “Yuppiefest” was born.

Each year, bands are selected through a careful process designed to “retain credibility and definitiveness in our local scene,” Ford said. The music has spoken for itself. This unique concert experience now boasts three stages, 27 bands and a devoted fan following, bringing in a crowd of more than 10,000 people over the past eight years. Musicians and fans alike look forward to the festival every year as a celebration of local music.

This Saturday, Yuppiefest makes its return to the Vista Ridge Amphitheater in Lewisville for what many are saying will be the best fest yet. The show starts at 3 p.m. and features local bands, including The London Scar, Rockett Queen, Scarlet Affair, 41 Gorgeous Blocks, Darlington, Before The Fall, Valeyra, Already Proud, 12 Years Wasted, Twin Jewels, The Immigrants and many more. Tickets are $10 at the door, and if you’re not able to make the show or just want a chance to preview the scene, the Yuppiefest Pre-Party kicks off this Friday at 9 p.m. at the Inferno in Denton. Yuppiefest tickets will be available at the door and the show will feature several bands from Saturday’s line-up.

Former Yuppiefest participants include Bowling For Soup, The Latch-Key Kids, Minority and others who have gone on to experience much success in their careers. Hatfield and Ford point out that every band involved with the festival over the years has left its mark and in turn received exposure to an audience that really cares about the music. “It’s for the music, it’s for the kids, it’s for our hometown. Our goal-is just to leave something behind. We all want to make a contribution to our communities and this is ours. Enjoy the show,” they said. For more information visit www.yuppiefest.net.