Summertime Means Music at Botanical Garden

This summer marks a full decade since the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks in Fayetteville began hosting its annual Free Summer Concert Series. The series began as way to give families a reason to come to the gardens later in the day, after work, while also supporting local musicians. While there are three events that are part of the concert schedule, they fall in with BGO's larger summer program Terrific Tuesday Nights. The program features extended hours on Tuesdays throughout the summer and a variety of family-friendly events and activities.

The Free Concert Series offers one concert each for June, July and August, and each features a different style of music. Lawn chairs and picnics are welcome, but please leave the pups at home. Local food trucks will also be on hand with food and drinks available for purchase. The 10th annual lineup includes:

June 26 -- "Red, White & Blooms" patriotic concert with the Arkansas Winds Community Concert Band

The annual "Red White & Blooms" concert is a local favorite and a pre-Fourth of July patriotic summer kickoff at the gardens. The nonprofit, all-volunteer community band has been dedicated to bringing concert music to the area, as well as providing musicians a place to practice their skills, since 1988.

July 31 -- Funk Factory

Fayetteville's high energy party band under the direction of Anthony Ball combines Motown soul, rock 'n' roll, smooth Sinatra jazz, and a good ol' boot scoot with Jeron Isbell's beautiful gospel voice.

Aug. 21 -- National Park Radio

Harrison indie/folk acoustic group National Park Radio was born out of a love for the natural Ozark beauty and good music. Now, the band's original songs and beautiful vocals reflect on family, the need to explore and a love for the outdoors, inspired by their Ozark Mountain home.

-- Jocelyn Murphy

jmurphy@nwadg.com

NAN What's Up on 06/22/2018