Aspiring musicians under the age of 21 are invited to take part in one of Oswego Harborfest’s most exciting events, the annual Battle of the Bands competition.

Scheduled for July 26, Harborfest’s Battle of the Bands, which is free and open to the pubic, will pit up to eight bands and up to six solo performers in a fun yet spirited musical competition. The winner in the Battle of the Bands competition will receive a first prize of $200 and have the opportunity to perform a 45-minute set on the Budweiser Rock Stage during Harborfest. The winning solo performer in the Battle of Bands competition will receive a first prize of $75 and the opportunity to perform a 30-minute set on the Veteran’s Stage on River Walk West during Harborfest.

To be eligible, performers must be under the age of 21 as of Dec. 31, 2008, submit a clearly labeled CD or cassette recording containing no more than three songs, and a completed official Harborfest Battle of the Bands application.

Applications are available at the Harborfest office, 41 Lake St., and A&J Music, 104 E. Bridge St., both in Oswego, or can be downloaded from the Harborfest Web site, www.oswegoharborfest.com. Completed entries may be delivered in person or mailed to Harborfest, 41 Lake St., Oswego. All entries must be received no later than June 6.

Visit the Harborfest Web site at www.oswegoharborfest.com for the latest information regarding transportation options and performance schedules.