If you imagine you are hearing faint strains of music in your head, don’t worry….you’re not hallucinating. It just means you are already getting primed for this year’s version of Pops at the Park, the annual event which brings out music-loving locals and visitors alike.
This year’s concert – the 41st annual – will be held Saturday, August 15th on the grounds of the newly refurbished White Hall State Historic Site. The gates will open at 5:00 p.m. for staking out your spot and socializing with fellow Pops attendees before the music begins at 7:00 p.m.
The evening’s theme, in honor of America’s 250th birthday, will be Dance Party, U.S.A. Whether you’re a Boomer who remembers Friday night sock hops in the gym and rushing home from school to watch American Bandstand on a black-and-white TV, or Generation Alpha which favors highly curated forms of entertainment just meant to capture that Tik Tok moment, this will be a celebration to remember.
The evening will kick off with tunes from the Madison Community Band, an all-volunteer band whose selections will include patriotic songs as well as classical favorites.
Then things will rev up with Boogie G & the Titanics, one of Central Kentucky’s most popular party and dance bands. We’re betting you won’t be able to stay in your seats when they start rocking out with their massive repertoire of 1970s and 80s (and dare we hope, even some 60s) dance hits, funk, soul and R&B.
While the music is key to any Pops concert, there will be a non-musical twist this year for the first time – on-site food and beverage vendors to ensure you won’t go hungry or thirsty. Both Dreaming Creek Brewery and Chenault Vineyards have been confirmed as purveyors of liquid refreshment for the evening, while Fully Loaded will be on hand with their exceptional burgers, and Mad Scoops will keep things cool with ice cream.
Keep checking the Pops’ Facebook page for additional information on vendors as it comes in, and guests may also bring their own picnic dinners and beverages if they prefer.
They may also bring their own chairs, or if they are really into the no-frills option, can just spread a blanket on the lawn.
General admission is $15 per person, or if you want to pre-purchase a table prior to the event, prices are $200 for a table of six and $250 for a table of eight.
All attendees are encouraged to deck out their tables and chairs in red, white and blue balloons, streamers, flags, stars, stripes and any other Uncle Sam-approved paraphernalia. Or, decorate your table according to your favorite era of American music.
But don’t stop there. Don your most patriotic attire as well – anything from Minuteman uniforms and George Washington wigs to the Statue of Liberty’s flowing robe and spiked head gear.
All tickets can be purchased by visiting the Richmond Area Arts Council website at artsinrichmond.org.
So, feel free to use our tagline and come “Boogie with us at Dance Party U.S.A.”