Rock Island Parks & Recreation is proud to announce the annual Thursday Night Groove Concert Series, sponsored by UnityPoint Health Trinity, Rock Island Happy Joe’s, and Friendship Manor.

The concert series will be held on the Ellis Kell Stage at Schwiebert Riverfront Park (1st Avenue and 18th Street in Rock Island). Each concert is free and fun for all ages. Thursday Night Groove begins at 6:00 pm with the opening of food and beer sales. Featured will be Rock Island Parks Concession Stand with brats and hot dogs, Happy Joe’s Pizza, and beer sales by Bent River Brewing Company, who will have their seasonal on tap in addition to their standard lineup of craft brews. Live concert performance will be from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Concert schedule is as follows:

August 13th – Funktastic 5

August 20th – North of 40

August 27th – Been There Done That

September 3rd – Soul Storm

September 10th – Phyllis and the Sharks

September 17th – Class of ‘82

September 24th – Minus Six

October 1st – The Stone Flowers

The eight bands will cover a real mix of music including rock, funk, soul, R&B, and blues. This year’s Groove series presents a wide variety of local talent and brings together the best of Rock Island with food, great music, and partnerships to create a memorable experience for attendees.

“We ask all patrons to be smart, wear masks, practice social distancing, and to keep seating grouped with those in your immediate household. The dance floor will be closed, but with social distancing, dancing is welcome at your spot in the park. With these measures in place we can provide a safe and enjoyable outdoor music experience,” says Dan Gleason, Special Event & Fundraising Manager.

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Outside alcohol is not permitted. Event parking available in lot at 17th Street/1st Avenue (next to playground) after 6:00 pm or throughout downtown Rock Island. For more information about the concert series, please call Rock Island Parks and Recreation at (309) 732-7275.