Summer Fest kick off: Land of big umbrellas and swingin’ tunes

MANCHESTER, NH – A little summer rain never hurt anyone, and failed to deter a dedicated crowd at Veterans Park Thursday night, assembled with umbrellas, blankets and lawn chairs for the official kick off of Summer Fest 2015.

Megan Morin and Katlyn L’Italien were tucked happily under their big blue umbrella when the light rain began to fall about an hour into the open-air concert.

They admitted they were groupies (sort of ) for the Freese Brothers Big Band.

“Mr. Adams is my old band director, so we just sort of started following the Freese Brothers whenever they play,” said Morin.

Mike Adams, band director for Pinkerton Academy, leads the Freese Brothers, a band with a big sound and a big heart to match – they donate proceeds from their gigs to an scholarship fund that benefits aspiring musicians.

The perimeter of the park was lined with tables featuring about a dozen local artisans, collectively known now as the Manchester Arts Market, selling everything from custom-made diapers and “big kid” pants in exciting and colorful styles (Three Monkeys Cloth Diapers), to homemade doggie treats (Gunther’s Goodies) and soaps (Hemlock Springs Soaps). You can see more in the gallery below.

Summer Fest, brought to you by Intown Manchester, is free fun for all and continues July 16 with funky dance band Manchuka. Remember to bring your piggy banks next time and support the local arts community.

Photo gallery includes vendors from Manchester Arts Market.

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