On this week’s episode of Out and About, Dr. Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with Alissa Williams, Director of the Morton Public Library, about the return of the library’s popular Groove in the Garden Concert Series.
Taking place June 5 through July 31 in Hannah’s Reading Garden, the free summer series combines live music, food trucks and community gathering space in an outdoor setting designed for all ages. What began as a small July concert series has steadily expanded over the past decade into a summer tradition drawing hundreds of attendees from across the region.
Williams describes the atmosphere as welcoming and community-centered, with families picnicking, children playing and audience members of all abilities enjoying the music together. “It’s just a perfect blend of the community,” she said. “Everyone comes together to enjoy live music.”
This year’s lineup features a variety of Central Illinois favorites and cover bands performing music from the 1960s through the 1980s, including Cousin Eddie, Next Thing Smokin’, Jane's Rumor and the returning group Now in Zen. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, enjoy food trucks beginning at 6 p.m. and settle in for performances running from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Groove in the Garden takes place Thursdays from June 5 through July 31 at Morton Public Library’s Hannah’s Reading Garden.
