16.Downtown at Sundown
Published 5:00 am Thursday, May 16, 2019
By John Guidroz
jguidroz@americanpress.com
In addition to the bands, this year’s series includes new entertainers like magicians, jugglers and fire dancers.
By John Guidroz
jguidroz@americanpress.com
Photos Special to the American Press
A variety of local and regional bands will be sure to entertain the Lake Area during the 21st annual Downtown at Sundown concert series, located on Ryan Street in front of Historic City Hall and the Parish Courthouse.
The lineup includes the Calcasieu Cajun Ramblers May 17; Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience May 24; Bluesiana RED May 31; and The Tugboats June 7. Each free concert is 6-9 p.m.
Matt Young, director of cultural affairs for Historic City Hall, said the concert atmosphere is similar to a street fair. Along with the bands, he said this year’s series includes new crowd entertainers like magicians, jugglers and fire dancers.
“We want everybody who comes to see something they connect with,” Young said.
Young said the additions reflect Mayor Nic Hunter’s vision of building the downtown area. Opening and intermission performers include Brandon Broussard & Chez de Bon Temps, a local Cajun band, the Washington-Marion High School drum line, and Young Band Nation.
Along with the music, attendees can check out roughly 20 local arts and crafts vendors and tabletop galleries. They can sample local cuisine from five food trucks. Beverage sales will benefit the Literacy Council of Southwest Louisiana.
The family-friendly event also includes activities for children. Young said lights will be draped above the front plaza, extending from the third floor balcony of Historic City Hall to the street lights below.
Lawn chairs are allowed, but ice chests and pets are prohibited.
From 2-10 p.m. the day of each concert, a portion of Ryan Street — from Iris Street to the parking lot entrance of the Phoenix Building — will be closed to vehicles.
Concerts will be moved to the Civic Center if it rains.
For more, including vendor information, call 491-9159.
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Online: cityoflakecharles.com
