The Park Ridge Fine Arts Society's free outdoor concert series closes out its 66th summer with two Friday-night performances at Hodges Park, starting with the Illinois Brass Band on Friday, Aug. 7, and the Brian Patti Big Band on Friday, Aug. 14.
Both bands perform 8 to 9:30 p.m. on the steps of City Hall, with the audience spread across Hodges Park at the intersection of Vine, Main and Courtland avenues. Admission is free. Residents can bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets.
The series, presented by the Park Ridge Fine Arts Society, has staged free summer concerts in Park Ridge since 1960. Mayor Marty Maloney promoted the tradition on his official Facebook page, calling it one that has brought neighbors together for more than 65 years.
This summer's run kicked off July 10 with the Park Ridge Fine Arts Symphony Orchestra scheduled for four consecutive Fridays. Storms forced the cancellation of the July 31 show, according to a notice on the city's news page, leaving the two August dates as the final chances to catch live music in the park this year.
The nonprofit relies on donations from residents and local sponsors to cover musicians, equipment and operations each season. Contributions can be made at prfas.org.
The society is also hosting a Wine Dinner Benefit on Thursday, Aug. 27, at The Harp & Fiddle (110 Main St., Park Ridge) to raise funds for future programming.
Upcoming community events
- Friday, Aug. 7 — Illinois Brass Band, Concerts in the Park, Hodges Park, 8 p.m.
- Friday, Aug. 14 — Brian Patti Big Band, Concerts in the Park, Hodges Park, 8 p.m.
- Thursday, Aug. 27 — Wine Dinner Benefit, The Harp & Fiddle, 110 Main St., Park Ridge
- Thursday, Aug. 27 — Back to School Bash, Prospect Park
