Rockin' Out in Downtown Westminster

Written by Missie Wilcox

It’s July in Downtown Westminster, which can only mean one thing – LIVE music!  If you’re looking for something to do that’s fun and different, take a stroll downtown to hear the sounds of jazz, rock, Irish and other great music! Even better, these live concerts are free! So grab a blanket and a beverage and join in the fun! During the week of July 7, there are five incredible concert venues, spanning four days – there’s simply no excuse not to get your groove on!

THURSDAY: SONGS AT 6:30

Every Thursday evening through the end of July, come to the stage at the Westminster Library and check out the Songs at 6:30 concert series.  The next concert is July 11 at 6:30 with Ray Owen.  Owen is a Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter, singing folk/country/bluegrass infused with comedy and some classic tunes. The concert series continues with Ron Zuskin & Friends playing on July 18, and The Flying Faders rocking out the library stage on July 25.  The concert series is sponsored by the City of Westminster and Coffey Music.

SATURDAY: Common Ground on the Town

Since 1994, McDaniel College and Carroll County Farm Museum host the award-winning Common Ground on the Hill, a two-week program featuring workshops, musicians, artists, writers, actors and dancers. Last year, Downtown Westminster and the Chamber of Commerce partnered with the event coordinators to create “Common Ground on the Town.”  This new event brought live music into four downtown venues. Given last year’s success, the event is returning again!  On Saturday July 13, Common Ground on the Hill once again becomes Common Ground on the Town.  Three downtown venues will host free, live music for your listening pleasure! The Eastman String Band will be on the Library stage. The Paul McKenna Band will be at O’Lordan’s Irish Pub, and Professor Louie and the Christopher James Band will be playing at Johansson’s Dining House.  All concerts begin at 9pm. This great event is sponsored by the Aquino Financial Group, the City of Westminster and Carroll County Chamber of Commerce.

SUNDAY: Month of Sundays

Ah, the weekend.  A great time to relax and unwind. And perhaps the best way to cap off a terrific summer weekend is to come to City Park on Sunday nights in July to take in a concert during the “Month of Sundays”. These free concerts, held every Sunday evening in July, are coordinated by the Human Services Programs of Carroll County.  Admission is free but guests are asked to make a donation of personal care or cleaning items. On Sunday July 14, enjoy some great classic rock by Problem Child.  Bootleg plays on July 21, and Dean Crawford and the Dunn’s River Band close out the concert series on the 28th. 

It’s a fun way to rock out the week!  See you around Downtown!  Like us on Facebook!