Sand, Sunsets, Stunning Sounds, and Something to Eat: UPMC Sunset Series Returns

Steve Leitzinger

Wednesday, Jun. 5

It can be universally noted that Erie residents are starting to feel skeptical that summer — or even warmer weather — will actually return. Surprisingly, however, the UPMC Sunset Music Series is starting soon, and will run every Wednesday from June 5 to July 17 (except July 3). Shows begin at 5:30 p.m. at Beach 1 and continue until that large fiery ball in the sky sinks below the lake on the horizon.

"We are anticipating a summer of awesome music and delicious food — all with the irreplaceable sunsets of Lake Erie as a backdrop," says Jon DeMarco, executive director of Presque Isle Partnership. And this year, it seems that the Sunset Music Series will be bigger and better than ever.

"Each Wednesday enjoy two live bands, extended swimming hours, hula hoop playshops with Jennifer Dennehy, and weekly raffle drawings," DeMarco explains. "Our weekly raffle drawings feature exclusive prizes for hotspot activities and eateries around Erie, including a dinner for two at the Bayfront Sheraton Grille, tickets to tour the Presque Isle Lighthouse, and a 90-minute sail aboard Flagship Niagara League's Lettie G. Howard."

If that's not enough to whet your appetite for some great summer fun, your mouth will be watering at the food truck lineup which will also be stationed at the beach for your masticating pleasure. The rotating roster of edible delights will feature Erie's finest food trucks, which, if you know anything about these mobile culinary units, range from vegan food to barbecue, and tacos to Indian fare. Connie's Ice Cream and J's Mainstreet — serving up hot dogs and ice cream — will be there each Wednesday.

"The UPMC Sunset Music Series is a perfect opportunity for the Erie community to experience our local musical talent along with Presque Isle's world-class sunsets and Lake Erie's beautiful shores," says DeMarco.

Speaking of music, each week, expect to indulge not only in summer delights, but seasonal treats of the aural variety. Two bands will play at every event, as follows:

June 5: DangerBird — Edgy, offbeat, classic rock and blues cover band

Jeff Fetterman Band — Raw, exciting, and intense blues, with spontaneous set changes and true character

June 12: The Rooftop Project Band — Fun, collaborative pop, jazz, blues, and funk music.

The Goats — Veteran local musicians with a broad repertoire from country to jazz and everything in between.

June 19: Re•Issue — Outstanding rock, roots, and Americana with exceptional harmonization and vocals.

SIRSY — Charismatic and sassy sounds that will get everyone dancing, peppered with anecdotes guaranteed to prompt a laugh or two.

June 26: The Acoustic Jukebox — Acoustic, high-energy tunes presented by two young lads

Lucky Dog — Copious, crowd-favorite covers presented by talented local musicians.

July 10: Six Year Stretch — Soulful, infectious melodies that will get you up and grooving.

Daddy Longleg's Homegrown Revival — Rich, genre-hopping jazzy sounds described as "Santana meets Lenny Kravitz with hints of Green Day, Fela Kuti, and Red Hot Chili Peppers."

July 17: Jamie B. Gallagher — Folk rock and pop presented by a feisty young artist.

The Breeze Band — 9-piece outfit with sonic versatility, talent, and a roster of Motown, blues and classic rock numbers. — Miriam Lamey

5:30 p.m. // Beach 1, Presque Isle // Free // discoverpi.com/events/upmc-sunset-music-series