The free summer concert series held weekly during summer months at Sandy Hook has become a local tradition. This year the series will kick off June 18 and run through Aug. 27, with concerts every Wednesday at 6 p.m. (weather permitting) at Beach Area E on Sandy Hook.
Each week, local performers draw more than 2,000 people to the beautiful setting for free musical entertainment. The family-friendly concerts offer more than live music, with many audience members bringing picnic dinners from home. Food can also be purchased at a snack bar nearby. There are restrooms, and beach wheelchairs may be reserved ahead of time by phoning (732) 872-0025.
The concerts end promptly at 8:15 p.m. Parking is well-organized and free.
The Sandy Hook Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1989 as the official “friends” group of the National Park Service at Sandy Hook. Since 1992 the Sandy Hook Foundation has organized the series, and to date more than 190,000 people have enjoyed these special evening performances.
“Year after year, families from all over New Jersey come out every Wednesday evening in the summer and enjoy this unique opportunity,” said Lou Venuto, chief, Interpretation & Cultural Resources at Sandy Hook. “The National Park Service is delighted to help provide such an enjoyable experience for all.”
The 2008 schedule is:
• June 18 – Cherubs (classic rock)
• June 25 – The Chuck Lambert Blues Band (blues)
• July 2 – Tim McLoone and The Shirleys (rock/Americana)
• July 9 – Philadelphia Funk Authority (r&b)
• July 16 – Beth Anne Clayton Band (country rock)
• July 23 – Jobonanno, The Godsons of Soul (rock and roll)
• July 30 – Next Generation of Soul (funk/dance)
• Aug. 6 – Tim McLoone and The Shirleys (rock/Americana)
• Aug. 13 – The Robert Murdoch Band (British invasion/’60s)
• Aug. 20 – Pat Guadagno & The Candle Brothers (folk rock)
• Aug. 27 – Jazz Lobsters Big Band (swing)
For weather-related cancellations, call the foundation office at (732) 291-7733 after 2 p.m. the day of the concert, or go to www.sandyhookfoundationnj.org.