Walnut Hill Park Music Concert Series in New Britain, Connecticut

On Monday and Wednesday nights in July and August, The New Britain Parks and Recreation Department in Connecticut hosts a free summer music concert series. The event happens at the Darius Miller Music Shell in Walnut Hill Park.

You can see bands featuring everything from polka, to rock to R&B to patriotic music. Some bands planned this year include Locomotion, the Eddie Forman Orchestra, Fountainhead, The 1^st Company Governors Foot Guard Band, Patti and the Guys Polka Band and many more.

A full schedule is available by clicking on a link at http://www.new-britain.net/liv_prknrec.html.

Music starts at 7 p.m. and last until around 9 p.m.

It is lots of fun but there are things you should know. Parking can be difficult and far from the stage so be prepared to walk. You need to bring a blanket or chairs. On some nights a sweater may be necessary. Rain usually cancels the event.

You can bring non-alcoholic drinks and snacks. There is usually an ice cream truck. The city also sells popcorn and soda or water for a fee.

Dogs are allowed but I would advise if you have one to stay on the outskirts as it gets crowded in the center. Some people do not like the pets and some dogs need room to roam. Bring plastic bags for dog pick-up.

Depending on who is performing, there can be from 200 to 500 people.

There is an area for dancing but other than a few regulars not too many people seem to dance.

The park area is large and the sound is pretty good for a park. The back of the shell lights up at night and you can also see pretty well depending on how far away you sit.

Toilets are situated behind the shell and are handicapped accessible.

The event is free and it is a great way to get out of the house at no charge. It is especially good for families. There are quite a few seniors in attendance as well. You can sit in the sun or under a tree if you prefer.

It is open to anyone whether you are a New Britain resident or not. It is a good safe happening anyone can attend. So if you don't have any plans and are looking for something new, give it a try. You probably will find yourself coming back for more.