The longstanding Summer Breeze concert series brings a varied lineup to Merchants Square this summer, from military bands to jam bands.
The free concert series launches its 25th season July 3, with a pre-Independence Day performance from the United States Air Force Band, continuing Wednesday evenings through Aug. 31.
As in years past, military bands and ensembles pack the August lineup, including the Army TRADOC Band and the USAF Rhythm in Blues Jazz Ensemble.
This year, July’s lineup also features some new offerings.
Major and the Monbacks, a Norfolk-based rock sextet joins the lineup for the first time. And, following the performance on July 27 from local jam band Blind and Dirty, Kimball Theatre presents an exclusive screening of “The Grateful Dead Movie” (1977), a concert film co-directed by Jerry Garcia. Tickets to the screening are $5.
Concerts begin at 7 p.m. in Merchants Square, and concertgoers should bring lawn chairs and blankets.
The series is sponsored by Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchants Square and Morgan Stanley Williamsburg Branch.
Schedule
July 3: United States Air Force Band (patriotic, big band)
July 6: Good Shot Judy (vocal jazz)
July 13: Major & the Monbacks (rock, soul)
July 20: Brunswick (contemporary brass ensemble)
July 27: Blind & Dirty; ticketed screening of “The Grateful Dead Movie” begins at 9:30 p.m.
Aug. 3: USAF Rhythm in Blues Jazz Ensemble
Aug. 10: Army TRADOC Band (classic, march)
Aug. 17: USAF Blue Aces Pop Ensemble (classic rock, R&B)
Aug. 24: USAF Heritage Brass Ensemble (classical)
Aug. 31: Army TRADOC Band
