The Happy Fits perform July 11 in Abingdon, Virginia.
Abingdon Music Experience announces the seventh annual Thursday Jams concert series, featuring Americana and roots music. The popular summer series is presented by Blue Ridge Beverage, and runs May 9 - July 18 at the Abingdon Market Pavilion in downtown Abingdon, Virginia.
Each week includes free, family-friendly live music, plus food trucks and a beer garden. In addition to the 10 Thursday Jams concerts, the Town of Abingdon is also holding its traditional Independence Day celebration Thursday, July 4, making a total of 11 weeks of free entertainment this summer.
Musical acts include buzz-worthy young acts like Morgan Wade and the Stepbrothers (May 9) and The Happy Fits (July 11), plus popular names like Town Mountain (May 16) and Love Canon (June 27). Closing out the series July 18 is acclaimed singer-songwriter John Paul White, who originally gained fame as one-half of the Grammy Award-winning duo The Civil Wars.
According to Event Coordinator Sara Saavedra, Thursday Jams shows have gained increasing popularity over the last six years due to a diverse lineup with multi-generational appeal. “We are always looking for acts that bring something really unique to the Tri-Cities,†Saavedra said. “I make a point of seeking out female artists and artists of color, and of course all of the acts need to be just electrifying on stage. The feedback has been great, and we’re especially thrilled to see so many millennials and families with kids who show up week after week.â€
The series, which draws thousands of locals and visitors to downtown Abingdon each year, is presented by Blue Ridge Beverage, and sponsored in part by Eastman Credit Union, Universal Fibers, First Community Bank, Bank of Marion, Food City, State Farm Agent Jamie Barger and Ballad Health, with media and hospitality sponsorship from WEHC, 99.3 The X, and JJ’s Restaurant and Sports Bar.
Music begins at 7 p.m. at the Abingdon Market Pavilion, with a beer garden opening at 6:30 p.m. A variety of food truck and local vendors are on hand offering concessions. The events are family-friendly, and attendees are encouraged to bring their chairs and or blankets to enjoy the shows. No outside alcohol is allowed. In case of inclement weather, Wolf Hills Brewery serves as the alternate venue.
For a full description of musical acts and dates, visit www.abingdonmusicexperience.com.
