Spring is upon us, and summer is not far away. That blanket you’ve been using to stay warm? Bring it down to First Ward Park in Uptown Charlotte as the fourth Summer Concert Series kicks off May 3rd.
On four Friday nights this summer, the Great Lawn at First Ward Park will come alive with the sound of grassroots music. The concert series kicks off with the Yonder Mountain String Band. Hank, Pattie & the Current open for them.
“We’re continuing with the great cultural programming that started at Romare Bearden Park when it first opened,” says Danielle Maddox-Tester, the Special Events Coordinator for Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation’s Central Park Region. “It’s a chance for everyone to enjoy one of our great parks and music.”
This year’s genre centers around Roots and Americana music, with its homegrown sound. While not all of the acts hail from North Carolina, most have Carolina ties and one, Emily Sage, calls Charlotte home.
“We wanted regional bands to keep with the relaxed, hometown feel of summer,” says Maddox-Tester. “We thought we could reach more residents with Roots and Americana because people really enjoy its inviting and relaxing vibe.”
The 2019 Summer Concert Series is presented by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation, and supported by Partners for Parks. This is the second year Partners for Parks and Park and Recreation have teamed up for the series.
“I can’t wait for this summer’s series!” exclaimed Beth Poovey, President of Partners for Parks. “I get the most excited about bringing the public together in our great parks and open spaces.”
Partners for Parks is supporting the Concert Series by helping spread the word about county parks during the concerts, and talking to concertgoers about the strengths of working together to support and enhance local parks.
The Partners hope they can make new friends, and maybe find a few new volunteers to strengthen the group’s vision of “Breathing Life Into Our Communities.”
You can see the lineup here: uptowncharlotteparks.com/first-ward-park/
