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DOWAGIAC — One of Dowagiac’s most popular events is set to take the stage once again this summer.

The Dowagiac Music in The Park summer concert series is set to return to the Dowagiac Library Event Pavilion – on the corner of New York Avenue and Main Street – at 7:30 p.m. every Thursday from June through August. While the series has traditionally kicked off with a performance from the SMC Brass Band, this year will be different owing to a date conflict. The June 13 opening date will be a double bill, with the DUHS Chamber Choir performing prior to a set from Redbud Ramblers.

The public is encouraged to bring lawn chairs for seating and vendors will also be on-site and ready to serve by 6 p.m. Music starts at 7.30 p.m. and runs until approximately 8:45-9 p.m. The music genres showcased in the concert series will range from R&B to blues, classic rock, Caribbean, folk, country and more. 

“Music in the Park is one of those events that allows us to slow down for a moment and enjoy shared experiences as a community,” said City Manager Kevin Anderson. “From the casual comfort of a lawn chair or blanket, we can visit with old friends, make new ones, commune over food, let the kids play in the grass, and enjoy live music. The sounds, tastes, and faces may change each week, but a free, weekly, summer concert has been a constant in Dowagiac since the 1800s. Events like these add to a community’s well-being and quality of life.”

The series includes returning favorites, like Schlitz Creek, Touch of Texas, Out of Favor Boys, and Caribbean Soul Experience, which turned the park into a giant dance party in 2023, as well as artists new to the series. These include acts like Headband Henny, Chris Canas Band, OCD/C, and Covington Groove, whose 2023 set was canceled due to inclement weather. 

Returning vendors include fan favorites Nola Roux (Cajun), Sammy Arepas (Venezuelan), Chelito’s Mini-Donuts (donuts and beverages), OAK+ASH (BBQ), Tienda y Taqueria Del Rey (Mexican), Wood, Stock and Grill (BBQ) and Diana Kitchen (Soul food). New vendors include SWAT — Sweets With a Twist (Dessert waffles), Ben’s Soft Pretzels (Soft pretzels), Short N’ Sweet Concessions (Fresh lemonade, chili dogs, and more) and Kalamazoo’s girl and the GOAT.

This year’s sponsors include lead sponsor Lyons Industries, Southwestern Michigan College, Honor Credit Union, MonaCo Cleaning Services, and Stay Dowagiac. 

”Supporting Music in The Park and what it does to bring free, fun entertainment to the Dowagiac community is something Lyons Industries is always proud to do,” said Lance Lyons, President of lead sponsor Lyons Industries. “This is another great lineup of diverse bands and music styles. It’s going to be a lot of fun for everyone.”

Multiple sponsors will be on-site during the series with fun activities and giveaways. Lyons Industries is also doing an incentive for team members – For select shows, there will be a raffle where the winner gets $50 in food vouchers and an eight-hour PTO day if they were scheduled to work during the event. 

In addition, several downtown businesses will have specials and extended hours to capitalize on those visiting for Music in The Park. For example, on Music in The Park Thursdays, OAK + ASH will stay open until 10 p.m. with a limited app menu and Caruso’s will have extended hours for most concert nights.

Those interested in updates as the series goes on are encouraged to visit the City of Dowagiac Facebook page or RSVP to the Facebook events that have been set up for each show. You can find those links and more info at DowagiacMusic.com, which will also promote any Music in The Park specials going on downtown. 

2024 lineup

​​June 13 – Redbud Ramblers and DUHS Chamber Choir | Michigan-Fried Bluegrass and Pop in The Park  

June 20 – Out of Favor Boys | Blues Tinged with Rock n’ Roll 

June 27 – Covington Groove | Rock n’ Roll with Jam, Funk, and Soul

July 4 – Off for the holiday

July 11 – OCD/C | Exclusively Bon Scott-era AC/DC

July 18 – Caribbean Soul Experience | Caribbean, Soul, and R&B 

July 25 – Touch of Texas | Variety and Classic Country at the Cruise-In ***This is also the Cruise-In event

August 1 – Chris Canas Band | Detroit Blues, Funk, and Soul Power 

August 8 – Headband Henny | Alternative Hip-Hop With a Splash of Indie R&B

August 15 – Schlitz Creek | Bluegrass With Some Bite

August 22 – Old Hank’s Son | Rock N’ Country