FREEHOLD — Summer in Freehold Borough means fine and casual dining, both indoor and cafe alfresco style, and music, music, music.
The 2010 Downtown Freehold Summer Concert Series will kick off in front of the Monmouth County Hall of Records, Main Street, on July 1.
Last year’s concert series presented classic rock tribute bands with such success that Downtown Freehold will again host rock legend tribute bands. The concerts are free and begin at 7 p.m.
The Nerds will open the 2010 concert series on July 1. The Nerds are one of the Jersey Shore’s most popular cover bands. The group will perform rock favorites that span several decades of musical history.
The Tribute Series will begin on July 8 with a performance by Jersey Four, featuring the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.
Fans of U2 will enjoy the tribute band U2 Nation on July 15, followed by Tusk, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band, on July 22.
On Aug. 5, “parrotheads,” also known as Jimmy Buffet fans, will enjoy Jimmy and the Parrots.
Jersey Shore favorite Mission Dance will perform songs from the 1960s to the present day on Aug. 12.
Beatles Faux Sale, a Beatles tribute, will close out the series on Aug. 19.
“We invite residents and visitors to the borough to bring a lawn chair and enjoy the night,” said Downtown Freehold CEO Richard Gatto.
Downtown Freehold, in association with Coors Light, will present a Fourth of July concert and fireworks spectacular at Freehold Raceway. The celebration will be held on July 4, with a rain date of July 5. Gates at the raceway will open at 5:30 p.m. Admission is free.
The Rock ‘n’ Roll Chorus, based in Howell, will entertain guests from 6-6:40 p.m. and from 7:15-7:45 p.m.
The rock cover band Turnstyles will perform from 8:15-8:55 p.m. and after the fireworks from 9:45-10:30 p.m. The band will feature the songs of Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel, John Mellancamp, Steely Dan and more.
Fresh food will be available from the Court Jester and Metropolitan Café.
“Western Monmouth County will once again be the stage to honor and celebrate our freedom, a key battle of which was fought right here,” Gatto said. “We anticipate a memorable night for children and adults who look forward to July Fourth every year. Our concert and fireworks show is a great way to enjoy the holiday after the afternoon barbecue.”
And, from June through September, Music in the Gazebo is performed on Main Street’s Restaurant Row every Friday and Saturday beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Singers/songwriters share their talents with appreciate audiences.
— Clare Marie Celano