Band of Brothers Kicks Off Fourth of July Concert Series

Much like the 12 Days of Christmas, Bristol has the 12 days of Fourth of July.

The annual 12-day long Fourth of July concert series began Wednesday night with Rhode Island-based group Band of Brothers as the opening act. The concerts will be ongoing until July 3, culminating in a pre-Fourth of July fireworks show on that date.

More than 100 individuals attended last night's concert, despite the rainy weather. The event was organized by Chuck MacDonough and Raymond Lavey, chairmen of music and entertainment. The two men said they have chosen musical groups for the series this year with hopes of creating a "mix of styles."

"We won't hire anyone unless we've personally seen them," Lavey said.

MacDonough noted that they sometimes go over to casinos to hear bands play as part of the selection process.

Most of the attendees in the audience Wednesday were not there for the specific musical act, however, but rather because of the tradition.

"I go to all the concerts every year they've been here at the water," said Lindsay Ayers, a Bristol resident.

The concert series always has a very family-oriented atmosphere, with many concert goers sitting with their children in tow.

"It's nice to be able to bring the kids to something that's family friendly, and they enjoy it too," said Bristol resident Melanie Mastin.

Upcoming acts for the concert series will include musical group Room Full of Blues and Jim Curry, a John Denver tribute singer. See the full list below.

Were you at last night's event? Stay tuned for a full photo gallery with highlights from the concert.

Upcoming Concert Events:

Thursday, June 23
The East Bay Summer Wind Ensemble, 6:30 p.m. 
Gerry Grimo and The East Bay Jazz Ensemble, 7:45 p.m.

Friday, June 24
Juniper Hill, 6:30 p.m.
Rune, 7:45 p.m.

Saturday, June 25
The Driftwoods, 7 p.m.

Sunday, June 26
The Patterson Smith Quartet, 6:30 p.m.
Detroit Breakdown, 7:45 p.m.

Monday, June 27
The Superchief Trio, 6:30 p.m.
Roomful of Blues, 7:45 p.m.

Tuesday, June 28
The Doug Botelho Band, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, June 29
The United States Air Force Band of Liberty,  7 p.m. 

Thursday, June 30
John Allmark's East Side Horns featuring Mac Odom & Chill,  7 p.m.

Friday, July 1
Jesse Liam Band, 6:30 p.m.
A Tribute to John Denver with Jim Curry, 7 p.m.

Saturday, July 2
Big In Europe, 6:30p.m.
The Patrick McAloon Band, 7:45 p.m.

Sunday, July 3
The Bristol County Chorus, 6:30p.m. 
Michael DiMucci - An Evening of Stage and Screen Under the Stars, 7:45 p.m.