TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – The vibrant atmosphere of summer days at Promenade Park, once filled with joyful crowds enjoying live music on the lush lawn, has experienced a significant shift as several concerts faced cancellation earlier this year.
In an exciting announcement made on Wednesday, ConnecToledo confirmed that the beloved summer concerts will make a triumphant return next summer, much to the delight of local music enthusiasts.
“We’re kind of reenvisioning the old party in the park from the late 80s and early 90s and bringing that theme back to downtown,” Paul Toth, the president of ConnecToledo, stated, reflecting a vision that hopes to revive the communal spirit once cherished by Toledo residents.
The upcoming concert series, reminiscent of the city’s classic summer festivities, will feature 13 local and regional music acts performing on Friday evenings from May 23 through August 29, creating a lively weekend tradition for families and friends.
“A combination of local, regional bands, maybe some tribute bands and a handful of national acts is eventually what we’d like to see this mix happen,” Toth elaborated, indicating a diverse lineup that aims to cater to a wide array of musical tastes.
The unveiling of this summer concert series took place during ConnecToledo’s annual meeting, where the organization presented its ambitious master plan focused on revitalizing the downtown area.
Unlike previous years, when attendance required purchasing tickets, the upcoming concert events will be absolutely free to the public, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festivities without financial barriers.
To maintain the no-cost structure, ConnecToledo will collaborate with the city, county, and various corporate sponsors, highlighting a community-driven effort to enhance Toledo’s cultural scene.
“Excited about getting people back downtown and activated and enjoying our community,” Toth expressed, emphasizing the positive impact these concerts will have on community engagement and local economy.
While the concept is closely modeled after the nostalgic Party in the Park, organizers are also considering naming it Rally By The River; further details regarding this exciting new series are anticipated to be released in Spring 2025.
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What new features can attendees expect at the summer concerts in Promenade Park after the recent cancellations?
**Interview with Paul Toth, President of ConnecToledo, on the Return of Summer Concerts in Promenade Park**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Paul! Exciting news about the summer concerts returning to Promenade Park next year. Can you tell our readers how this came about after the recent cancellations?
**Paul Toth**: Absolutely! This summer was particularly challenging with several concerts being canceled, which left a noticeable void in our community’s summer experience. We listened to the feedback from local music lovers and residents, and that drove us to take action. We’re thrilled to announce that we will be bringing back the concert series everyone knows and loves.
**Editor**: You mentioned reenvisioning the concerts to align with the vibrant atmosphere from the late ’80s and early ’90s. What does that entail for the upcoming series?
**Paul Toth**: We’re focusing on creating a true community experience. The idea is to revive the spirit of those classic “party in the park” events. We’ll feature a diverse lineup of 13 local and regional acts performing Friday evenings from May 23 through August. Our goal is to foster that sense of togetherness and nostalgia while also introducing some fresh talent to the mix.
**Editor**: That sounds fantastic! What elements from the past are you most excited to bring back to the concerts?
**Paul Toth**: The communal vibe is key. We want people to feel comfortable, to bring their families, to picnic on the lawn, and enjoy live music in a relaxed environment. Additionally, we’re enhancing the overall experience with food vendors and activities for kids so that it’s fun for everyone, regardless of age.
**Editor**: It sounds like these concerts will be more than just music. Are there any specific acts or themes you’re looking to highlight?
**Paul Toth**: While we haven’t announced the lineup yet, we’re aiming to include a variety of genres to appeal to a broad audience. The focus will be on showcasing Toledo’s rich music scene. We want not just to entertain, but to highlight the talent we have right here in our community.
**Editor**: Any final thoughts you’d like to share with music enthusiasts looking forward to next summer?
**Paul Toth**: I just want to emphasize how much we’ve missed these gatherings. We’re committed to making next summer an unforgettable experience that brings people together through the joy of music. Mark your calendars! We can’t wait to see everyone at Promenade Park.
**Editor**: Thank you, Paul! We look forward to the return of the summer concerts and the wonderful atmosphere they nurture in our community.
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This interview highlights the anticipation and plans surrounding the return of summer concerts in Toledo, emphasizing the communal and nostalgic aspects that make these events a cherished tradition.
