Hempfield summer concert series returns at amphitheater

Hempfield’s summer concert series and movies in the park are returning this year, with festivities kicking off in June.

This year, the event will feature nine concerts and three movies at the Smail Auto Group Amphitheater at Hempfield Park. This will be the third concert series held by the township since the amphitheatre opened in 2019. The series was canceled in 2020 because of the covid-19 pandemic.

“We are looking forward to a fun summer, with a great line-up at the Smail Auto Group Amphitheater,” said Aaron Siko, director of parks and recreation. “All of our concerts are free to park and free to attend. We will have either food trucks or our concessions open for every concert.”

This year’s concert series will start June 4 — the same day the park’s new inclusive playground will open — featuring Chris Higbee with Kevin Dale.

All concerts begin at 6 p.m. Here is the schedule for this year:

June 4: Chris Higbee with Kevin Dale

June 18: Antz Marching

July 2: Chuck Blasko & The Vogues

July 16: Sourmash with Tim Henry

July 30: Jeannette Community Band with the Glass City Swing Band Combo

Aug. 13: Jakob’s Ferry Stragglers

Aug. 27: Pendulum with Gashouse Annie

Sept. 3: East Coast Turnaround with The Shiners

Sept. 17: Willow Hill with Michael Christopher

According to Siko, the township’s concert series are scheduled in coordination with the Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation Concert Series at Twin Lakes Park. Between both sites, there will be a total of 18 concerts, which will be played every Saturday from May 29 through September 24.

Siko noted that officials are still seeking concert sponsors. Those who are interested can contact asiko@hempfieldtwp.org.

Additionally, the township will host three movie in the parks dates, which will also take place at the amphitheater. Movies include “The Mitchells vs. the machines” on July 15, “Encanto” on Aug. 19 and “Field of Dreams” on Sept. 10. Movies begin around 8:30 p.m. and are free to attend.