Out to Lunch Summer Concert Series Returns to Worcester Common

Saturday, June 08, 2013

Jeffrey Starr, GoLocalWorcester Contributor

The Out to Lunch Summer Concert Series showcases a wide-variety of local music as local workers sit down to have a relaxing lunch.

The Out to Lunch Summer Concert series is returning to the Worcester Common Oval beginning Thursday, June 20th. The individual concerts will be held every Thursday (except July 4th) over a ten-week span, 12- 2 pm, until August 29th. In addition to terrific local musical acts, a farmer's market of local produce will be open beginning at 11 am each Thursday, and area artisans with handmade wares available for sale and local food vendors will also be on hand. The concerts are free and open to the public.

Events such as this have an essential place in the Worcester community for a number of important reasons according to Victoria F. Hall, project manager in the Worcester office of Economic and Cultural Development.

"Events such as Out to Lunch benefit the Worcester Community by adding to the creative, and cultural atmosphere of the City," she remarks.

"Special events, festivals, fairs and all things creative help to make Worcester more vibrant, and inviting. These events help support economic development, by providing recreational and cultural activities to new residents and professionals, as wells as attracting visitors from other cities and states. Moreover, these events help to bring people together and create a sense of community and place."

Worcester Common Oval Brings the Community Together

This annual event, now in its fifth year, follows the successful inaugural season of ice skating on the Worcester Common Oval this past winter. The endeavor is ideal for workers in the city, who had can take a load off during their lunch breaks and head down to the Oval to check out so much their local brethren have to offer, from music and arts and crafts to food .

"Ultimately, we want people to step away from their desks, get out of their offices, and come out to the Common to enjoy their lunchtime break. We want people to be exposed to some of the wonderful talent, food and local produce, and creative wares that’s being produced in and around the City," says Hall.

An eclectic mix of music genres will be represented, from soul and blues, to country, funk, jazz, rock , and indie alternative.

The first band scheduled to perform is the eight-piece blues band Soul of a Man with frontman Demeyer Lauture. To see a complete list of scheduled performers please click here.

Currently, the organizers are seeking small area farmers/growers, local restaurants, and artists and crafters to sell good eats, fresh produce, specialty foods, and creative wares to patrons and workers in the downtown. Space is limited. Applications available for download here.

There is a great amount benefit to participating for all involved.

"We hope that participating vendors and musicians are able to showcase their goods and talents to the downtown. It’s a great way for them to increase their visibility and engage with the community," Hall says.

For more information on the Out to Lunch Summer Concert Series please click here or find the Worcester Common Oval page on Facebook.