DURING A TYPICAL SUMMER, the City of Faribault features free Concerts in the Park on Thursday evenings. I’ve attended for decades, taking our kids when they were growing up. It was a family night out. Years later, Randy and I still pack our lawn chairs and head to Central Park for music and visiting.
I expected this summer, there would be no concerts due to COVID-19. But as state restrictions loosen, the Faribault Parks & Rec Department has opted to start those concerts this Thursday, June 18, at 7 pm with the six-member Gold Star Band performing. The band, with members from around the area, plays classic country, 50s/60s and classic rock.
Nine additional musical groups—from Little Chicago to the Lakelanders Barbershop Chorus to Bend in the River Big Band—are on the Thursday schedule from now until August 20. It will be interesting to see how these musicians social-distance in the confined space of a bandshell. For the smaller groups, it shouldn’t be an issue.

I photographed this scene in Central Park on Sunday morning, just days before this week’s concert. Park benches had been pulled out of storage, but are obviously not spaced to allow for social distancing. Hopefully they will be moved apart prior to tomorrow evening’s concert.
Because these concerts are outdoors in a park that covers a city block, Randy and I feel safe attending. We can easily social-distance. That, and adherence to all Minnesota Department of Health guidelines related to COVID-19, are expected.
But after the concert, we won’t linger to visit with friends, as we usually do. We’ll fold our lawn chairs, carry them to the van and head home, thankful for the evening of music in a safe environment. Yet missing the sense of community that comes from interaction and conversation.
© Copyright 2020 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
I prefer to be outside right now if needing to get out. Just have to find the spots that are not too crowded. Sunblock and big hats are my friend with the heat and humidity here. Enjoy 🙂 Have a Great Day!
Spots that are not too crowded seems a really good idea. I’ve heard Florida’s cases of COVID-19 are on a rapid rise again.
Yes there is an increase/uptick. Hopefully can get it resolved pretty quickly and continue to decrease/flatten again.
I hope so. Take care, Renee.
How fun! I hope it works well. Let us know.
We’ll see…
I’m so jealous, all ours have been cancelled. What great pics of the bandshell! that now has the Bishop!! Enjoy!!!
Rain fell, so we did not attend the concert. Maybe this week. The Bishop Whipple mural is now completely installed. All three panels. I photographed it in completion this afternoon. Watch for a future blog post. Lots of photos to share from various places I’ve been.