Dave Matthews Caravan starts at Bader Field near Atlantic City, N.J.

As it turn out, the biggest musical event in Atlantic City this summer has nothing to do with the casinos (except for providing food and lodging for artists and fans).

On June 24, the first of four "Dave Matthews Band Caravan" extravaganzas scheduled this summer across the country kicks off at Bader Field, the historic airport located on Black Horse Pike on the northwest side of town.

The three-day musical orgy will see the Matthews Band playing full sets daily. Among the other acts scheduled are Dispatch, Moe., Gogol Bordello, Ray Lamontagne, O.A.R., The Flaming Lips, Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, Drive-By Truckers, Warren Haynes Band, The Jayhawks and Fitz & The Tantrums.

Philly's diverse musical scene will be represented by The Roots, Amos Lee and G Love & Special Sauce.

General admission is $195 for a three-day pass and $85 for single- day tickets. VIP packages (all-day-access to reserved viewing sections at each stage and a VIP hospitality area - with restrooms - serving complimentary snacks, beer, water and soft drinks, plus a gourmet buffet dinner each night from 5 to 8 p.m.) are $825 (three-day) and $325 (daily).

For tickets and information, go to dmbcaravan.com.

- Chuck Darrow