Free “Music in the Park” Concerts in Chehalis Every Summer

Picture this: The summer heat is melting into a pleasantly warm evening. You’re unrolling your blanket in the grass to the sounds of chatting neighbors, kids laughing, and picnics being unwrapped. Across the park lawn, a band sets up their stage and vendors hand tantalizing fair favorites to customers. A breeze carries wafts of sweet cotton candy to your spot. You exchange light conversation with the friends next to you, send the kids to the playground, and sip an ice-cold soda until the emcee steps up to the microphone to welcome everyone and announce the opening band.

This scene is one that Lewis County locals and their guests anticipate every summer at Music in the Park, a free concert series held at Chehalis parks. The long-standing tradition is back this year at Recreation Park in Chehalis with a diverse lineup of musicians vetted by both local and national audiences.

The fun begins on Friday nights in July. Listeners will tap their toes to the voices of vocal groups ranging from country music to classic rock.

To attend any of these shows, you need only bring your own seats and blankets. Admission is free and both street and lot parking are available. Food vendors will also be attending if you would rather skip filling the cooler! (Reminder: alcohol is prohibited in Chehalis city parks). Festivities don’t end at the last verse, either. Fans can stick around for the chance of a meet & greet after each show, or head to McFiler’s downtown for the official after party.

As far as summer activities go, it’s hard to go wrong with free, quality music in a beautiful downtown park alongside friends and family of all ages. Between the setting, the community involvement, and the vibes, Chehalis Music in the Park combines all the best parts of the small-town experience. The entire concert series is sponsored, produced, and largely attended by local businesses and community members.

For full details on the Music in the Park lineup, see The Chronicle’s coverage here.

Written by Chelsea Barr