8 Concerts Planned For Batavia River Rhapsody Series

BATAVIA, IL — The Batavia Park District is planning eight outdoor concerts this summer as part of its River Rhapsody Concert Series.

The event series runs through Aug. 6 at the Peg Bond Center, 151 N. Island Ave. Concerts will start at 7:30 p.m. and end at 8:30 p.m. New this year are theme nights that include special drinks and free activities led by Batavia community organization.

"This year's summer series is exciting because we have many new bands. I am looking forward to hearing Reckless and The Sociables play," event co-chair Bethanne Guidarelli said in a statement.

The first show, a children's choir, took place June 11 at Peg Bond Center. Here's the schedule for the rest of this summer:

• June 18: Abby Kay Band (Theme: Concert t-shirt night). The band plays rock, country and pop hits.
• June 25: Horizon (Theme: '70s night). The horn-infused band performs funk, soul, R&B and rock from the '60s, '70s and '80s.
• July 2: Superfly Symphony (Theme: Red, white and blue). The eight-piece ensemble plays disco, funk and R&B hits from the 1970s and beyond
• July 16: Reckless (Theme: Rock of Ages). The band performs high-energy rock, pop, dance and country covers.
• July 23: The Sociables (Theme: Christmas in July). The group fuses tight vocal harmonies, stellar guitar tones, a rhythm section and keys.
• July 30: American Cash (Theme: Country music night). The performance will deliver the sound of Johnny Cash and the Tennessee Three.
• Aug. 6: This End Up (Theme: '90s night). The bank covers songs by artists ranging from Aretha Franklin to Pink, Kelly Clarkson, John Mellencamp to Bruno Mars and One Republic.

Concertgoers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the free nights of music. Wine, beer and food will be available for purchase.

Fernando's Street Kitchen will serve Mexican cuisine at each concert. Koconut’s Shave Ice will serve up some tasty treats on June 18, July 16 and Aug. 6, and The Cookie and Cream Dream Truck will join on June 25, July 2, July 23 and July 30.