If you’ve never been to the Gallivan plaza for one of the Summer concerts which have rocked our socks here in Salt Lake for the last 4 years, you missed out on the The Bacon Brothers Band (with Kevin Bacon), shame on you! It would only be fair to point out that my good friends Kevin and Carmen got married on the same stage that Kevin Bacon sang us the theme from “Footloose.” Such magical moments! I love the Gallivan Center, and you should too. Sure: it gets treated like an outdoor nightclub sometimes, and sure: the bands can be less then perfect and sure: parking can be a bother, but get over it people, THIS EVENT IS FREE!
Long ago you could bring in a backpack full of beer and share it with your buddies as you jive to the Jazz and Raggae, or a sip a flask of Yukon Jack as you boot-scoot to Bluegrass. Now those days are gone, outside alchohol is a no-no. Yet for 4 dollars you can quench your thirst with Uinta or Budweiser at the beer tent, and this is very much allowed with a picture I.D. There are also lots of booths and activities to wander around and embarrass yourself at after you’ve had a few too many. Don’t forget to grab some munchies at the many on-site vendors, and why not pick up a new windchime or scented candle while your at it?
The shows typically start Wednesday nights at 7pm, parking gets a little scarce around 8 or 9 and you’ll be shoveled off the premises at 10pm sharp. Both local and nationally acclaimed bands are booked this year. I personally think that the somewhat increased diversity of musical styles is exactly the prescription that this downtown area needs to get well.
Last night we heard the ska band Insatiable play after the opening local talent The Happies and had an excellent time. The music was upbeat and totally fun, people brought their friends and family, I even noticed a bouncy castle and other silly kid’s stuff for the little ones. The food was alright, the beer was great, and Insatiable was totally tight. I think this Summer will be a good one.
Performance lineup (click the band name to learn more):
June 22 June 29John Flanders and Double Helix
July 6 July 13Joy and Eric
July 20Starmy
July 27Terence Hansen’s Void of Course
Way Way East Bay
August 3Quadraphonic
The Gallivan Center is located at 239 South Main Street in Downton Salt Lake City, Utah. Ample parking is available across the street at the Walker Center for $3, or simply park on the street for free. For more information about the Gallivan Plaza call (801)535-6110. Join me every Wednesday as I try to outswim security in the dirty-ass fountain. And whatever you do don’t miss Royal Bliss on July 6th, these guys are absolutely awesome.
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