Toes tapped and fists pumped as country rock musician John Eddie played to a crowd of thousands in downtown Springfield’s Stearns Square on Thursday, June 21. Families, couples, co-workers and friends of all ages enjoyed fresh hot dogs and ice cold beverages as Eddie sang in a twang-y southern drawl and strummed emphatically on an acoustic guitar. The mass of people gathered in the square, despite earlier thunderstorms and an ominous weather forecast, to help kick off the Springfield Business Improvement District’s (SBID) Stearns Square CityBlock Concerts.
Now in its eighth year, the annual summer concert series offers city residents and visitors a free performance every Thursday night, from June 21 to September 20. Normally a 10 show series, this year’s schedule has been extended to 14 shows by popular demand from fans and business owners, and includes a varied lineup featuring styles ranging from blues, rock ‘n roll and classic rock to R&B, pop and top 40s hits.
“The shows are great because they bring people downtown and show them that it is a lively and safe place to be,” said Taryn Markham, public relations and marketing manager for the SBID. “The concerts offer a friendly and fun place for social gatherings that everyone can enjoy and they really draw people into the heart of the city.”
The SBID maintains an active year-round event calendar aimed toward bringing people into the city and works aggressively toward improving the quality of life in the downtown area, said Markham. In addition to the Stearns Square Concerts, the SBID is planning a number of events for the summer season, including the traditional 4th of July celebration Star Spangled Springfield, Farmers Market Fridays, and the free Friday Lunchtime and Happy Hour CityBlock Concert series featuring local bands. The happy hour concert is a new event this year and is already growing in popularity among downtown workers looking for a fun way to unwind for the weekend. SBID insiders hope it will turn into a “mini-Stearns.” Also planned is a 3-on-3 basketball tournament hosted by the Basketball Hall of Fame. The event will consist of 100-150 teams competing on outdoor courts erected on Main Street. All basketball lovers are invited to participate.
With a schedule packed full of events, the SBID has much in store for the people of Springfield. From weekly markets vending fresh, locally grown produce to free outdoor concerts, city residents and visitors will have many opportunities to get out this summer and experience Springfield for the thriving city that it is.
For more information and a detailed schedule of events, please visit the Springfield Business Improvement District’s official web site at www.springfielddowntown.com.
- Lauren Foley
