Downtown SLO released the lineup for its annual Concerts in the Plaza series, which will bring free live music to Mission Plaza every Friday from June 20 to Sept. 12, excluding July 4.
Billed as “the largest free concert series on the Central Coast,” according to Downtown SLO’s website, the series will feature a new band and opener every Friday for 12 weeks.
The series will kick off with local band Moonshiner Collective and opening act Vintage Renegades. Other headliners include The Molly Ringwald Project, Resination and IMVA, while opening acts feature Sadie Jasper, TwoPaperSquares and About Time.
Each week, opening acts will begin at 5 p.m., followed by main performances from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Attendees can continue the evening at Libertine Brewing Company’s after-party beginning at 8:30 p.m.
“It’s very important to us and the health of the region that there are free, inclusive, family-friendly events that offer a chance to connect with the local community,” said Rachel Lackmann, marketing & communications manager at Downtown SLO. “Our lineup for this year has 24 incredible acts, some old favorites, and some Concerts in the Plaza first-timers.”
Several bands will be making their return to the venue.
“I am excited that Hot 45 is coming back,” Arroyo Grande resident Lynsey Fowler said. “I saw them last summer and they brought a great energy.”
Every show is supported by a local sponsor, funding elements such as the band’s performance, bike valets or the kid’s play zone.
The remaining opening act position for the Aug. 15 show will be decided by a crowd vote at Libertine’s Battle of the Openers event on April 11, which is open to guests 21 and older.
The series will conclude on Sept. 12 with Brass Mash as the final headliner, joined by opening act, Central Coast musician Dave Tate.