Off the Hill with Tricia Swenson: Final ShowDown Town is Thursday in Eagle
Off the Hill
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Do you remember when the Vail Valley only had one free weekly concert in town? Hot Summer Nights is the original, but as the population moved downvalley, so did the free shows.
Hot Summer Nights has been going strong at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater for almost three decades, and in 2001, the same idea of having a fun band playing for free took off at Eagle Town Park and took the name ShowDown Town.
The venue is perfect for families with young kids because it is adjacent to a large playground, seating is easy and attendees can bring a blanket or lawn chair and sit back and take in the sounds of summer while enjoying a picnic.
As the event has grown, so have the sponsors and amenities. Bonfire Brewing takes care of the beer while there are other drink options, pizza, barbecue and even kettle corn available. With Eagle being part of the “banana belt,” the climate is a bit warmer and dryer, but these shows happen rain or shine.
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The musical genres run the gamut between rock, Americana and blues, and this week, we have a special treat. John “JoJo” Hermann will be taking the stage Thursday thanks to the crew at Moe’s Original Bar B Que. For any Widespread Panic fans, this show will be a must-see. Hermann has been on keyboards for the jam band for years, but he also has popular side projects like JoJo and his Mojo Mardi Gras Band and the work he does with the North Mississippi All Stars.
This is the last concert, so don’t miss out on one of the best nights of entertainment for free at Eagle Town Park. The town is anticipating a large crowd, so consider carpooling, taking the bus (the Turtle Bus might be a good idea) or if you live close enough, then get the family out on the bicycles for a quick ride downtown.