People have been looking for signs of a return to normalcy, and this year in Berkeley Township one of those signs is likely to get people up and moving: Music.
The Summer Concert Series is returning to Veterans Park this summer, bringing with it live music, food, and a chance to get out with the family.
Precautions to minimize Covid-19 risks will still be in place, but it will be the closest many Berkeley residents have gotten to a traditional day out in over a year.
The music begins Wednesday, June 23 and will continue through September, with at least two special events taking place on Saturdays.
In keeping with tradition, attending the concert series will be free. The shows are funded by donations from the community, along with advertising in the summer program book and on-site advertising, as well as through the annual Mayor’s Golf Outing fundraiser,
“As always, the cost of the summer entertainment is funded by community and business donations. These donations fund Berkeley Township’s entire Summer Concert Series, our Beach Party, Berkeley Community Pride Day and other summer events,” Mayor Carmen Amato said. “The funds are also raised through the Mayor’s golf outing, our summer program book and outdoor stage advertising.”
Covid precautions will be followed at the events. Social distancing will be enforced, and masks must be worn when arriving and leaving, while at the restrooms, and when shopping with vendors. They may be removed when you are at your seat for the show.
The series will unfold as follows:
On June 23 at 6pm, Jukebox Legends will take the stage to do hits from the ‘50s and ‘60s, followed by AM Gold Yacht Rock Party, known for party hits by Hall & Oates,
Huey Lewis, Phil Collins, and others.
On July 7, Gerard Esposito will showcase the big sounds of Broadway and Las Vegas, followed by Total Soul’s mix of R&B, soul, and classic disco music. With everything from Michael Jackson to Bruno Mars in their setlist, it will be a good night for dancing.
Things move to the beach on Saturday, July 17, for the Annual Beach Party. Set to be held at White Sands Beach in South Seaside Park, 23rd Avenue, the fun begins at 5pm with the Caribbean music of The Verdict.
On Wednesday, August 4, Rock N' Rhythm will bring their mix of Doo-Wop and contemporary music to the stage at 6pm, followed by headliner Super TransAm, who perform big arena anthems from the 1970s and 1980s by bands like Journey, Queen, and others.
The big finale will be Saturday, September 11 for Berkeley Township Community Pride Day. The day-long event begins at 2pm in Veterans Park, and will feature vendors, local non-profits and community groups, performances by the Central Regional Marching Band and the Central Regional Chorus, and more.
At 5pm, ceremonies will be held to recognize the 20th Anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
Music begins at 6pm with Stiletto & the Saxman doing classics from Sinatra, doo-wop music, and more. Then at 7:30pm, the 9-piece act New Power Soul will slam out a huge range of popular music, from R&B to classic rock, alternative, and more. From Queen to Lady Gaga, they play it.
Berkeley Township Community Pride Day will be capped off with fireworks at 9pm.
A DJ from WJRZ will emcee every concert.
“The mayor and council would like to take this time to thank our generous sponsors, without whom these concerts would not be possible,” Amato said. “As you can see, we have a great mix of talented groups in our summer line up. There’s something for everyone. Please come on out for a great summer of entertainment and don't forget to bring a chair!”
The Mayor’s Golf Outing fundraiser will also return, this time taking place after the concert series rather than before. Those interested in sponsoring or playing in the Mayor’s Golf Outing on October 1 can contact the Recreation Department at 732-269-4456.