Bands are starting to warm up downtown Vernon as Civic Sounds returns for summer.
Free concerts are being offered to the public every Thursday night from 7 to 9 p.m.
The concerts take place on the grounds of the Civic Plaza, located in front of the Vernon museum and the former library building.
“These free concerts have been offered in downtown Vernon for 11 years and this year will be no exception,” said Lara Konkin, marketing and events coordinator with the Downtown Vernon Association, and organizer of the event.
The rockin’ country sounds of the The Shawn Lightfoot Band kicked off Civic Sounds, and will be followed by the 11-piece R&B band The Legendary Lake Monsters this coming Thursday.
Other scheduled artists in July include pop-rock band The Mumble Bees July 18 and country-rock artists Cheaper than a Porsche July 25.
The August lineup consists of The Young’uns, who have performed at Civic Sounds for the past 10 years, Aug. 1, jazz-blues artists Kath and the TomKats Aug. 8, classic rock band The Goods Aug. 15, and the Celtic-Maritime sounds of Cod Gone Wild Aug. 22.
Cheek to Cheek Dance Studio will provide dance lessons and entertainment during intermission for all concerts.
“The DVA encourages people of all ages to set up a lawn chair or lay out a blanket, have a picnic and enjoy the show,” said Konkin. “Many of the downtown restaurants have to-go menus and would be happy to provide a meal for you, your family and your friends while you are listening to the entertainment at Civic Sounds.
“We all need to remember summer is no picnic for the food bank. Please donate a non-perishable food item in support of the Salvation Army. Cash donations are also welcome.”
Washroom facilities are also available during the concerts.
Civic Sounds is sponsored by BC Hydro, 107.5 Kiss FM, the City of Vernon and the Downtown Vernon Association.
