Historic Washington State Park will host a free summer concert series titled “Celebrating America” on the 1874 Courthouse lawn, featuring three performances in conjunction with the nation’s 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The concerts will begin at 7:30 p.m. on three dates throughout the summer, showcasing Americana music spanning from the 19th century to present day. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.
The series kicks off June 20 with the Frontier Brigade Band from the Dallas-Fort Worth area, which specializes in music from the American Brass Band Movement of 1840-1880. More information is available at www.frontierbrigadeband.com.
On July 3, the Stewart Family from Many, Louisiana will perform American and bluegrass music as part of a full weekend of American 250 celebrations at the park.
The series concludes August 15 with the McWilliams Family Band, a Southwest Arkansas group that performs Americana folk and bluegrass music. The family also operates the Gap Mercantile Store in Caddo Gap. More information can be found at www.facebook.com/gapmercantile.
The August concert will also feature a music competition where musicians can perform original compositions related to America’s 250-year history. Prizes include $500 for first place, $300 for second, and $200 for third. Applications must be postmarked by August 1 and can be obtained by calling the Park Visitor Center at 870-983-2684.
The event is supported by City of Washington Tourism, Bobbie Arnold Atkinson Foundation, Tyson Foods, Farmers Bank and Trust, Lagrone Williams Hardware, Washington Grace Cottage, Hempstead County Historical Society, and Historic Washington State Park.
For more information, visit HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com or call 870-983-2684.