Graphic for the Sounds of Summer in First Ward Park

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/

Megaphone icon on blue circle

News You May Be Interested In

man in a vest standing at a scenic overlook

U.S. Play Coalition Recognizes Doug Youngblood’s Contribution to ‘The Power of Play’

If you knew Doug Youngblood, you know he believed in the “Power of Play.” For decades, Doug shared his energy and influence with…

Read More

Sustain Charlotte booth set up on a paved path with a crowd of people, many with bicycles

Greenway Ride with Partners for Parks and Sustain Charlotte Brings Out a Crowd

It was a beautiful day for a ride on Mecklenburg County’s ever-growing, popular linear park. On Saturday, March 19, more than 70…

Read More

about ten people standing inside near tables looking at something off camera

A Big Thank You to Our Sponsors!

We are grateful for all of our Sponsors who support Partners for Parks as we make a very specific impact on equity and inclusion,…

Read More

paved path surrounded by leafless trees

Partners for Parks and Sustain Charlotte Join Forces for More Greenways

Working together makes advocacy stronger, and Partners for Parks is teaming up with Sustain Charlotte to push for more greenways…

Read More

brick building near trees with walking paths

Partners for Parks is hosting a Spring Sponsor Celebration

Do you enjoy delicious food, craft beer, and a nice glass of wine? Can't wait to reconnect with friends and fellow lovers of parks…

Read More

elderly man sitting at a table with footballs

Remembering Our Friend, and a Friend to Parks and Play, Doug Youngblood

It was with heavy hearts we learned of Doug Youngblood’s passing just before Christmas, following his 5-year battle with cancer.…

Read More

Contact Information

PO Box 32365
Charlotte, NC 28232

Join the Partners for Parks Mailing List.

We’d love to stay in touch. Get the very latest on new initiatives, special events, and major accomplishments.

"(Required)" indicates required fields

Partners for Parks is a volunteer-driven nonprofit supported by a dedicated Executive Director and engaged Board of Directors. Our members play an active role on the Executive Board and committees, helping to advocate for, fund, and advance projects that strengthen and grow our park system. There are many ways to get involved. Some opportunities are ongoing, while others are single-day events. Whether you have a specific skill to share or simply want to lend a hand, we would love to find the right fit for you.

Interested in volunteering? Reach out to us at info@partnersforparks.org to get started.