Description

The opening concert in the series will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. at Mardi Gras Park, located at 109 Government Street. Gates open at 5 p.m., and attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets and enjoy an evening of rock and reggae in one of the city’s signature downtown gathering spaces. The lineup features two nationally recognized acts. Reggae collective Easy Star All-Stars will take the stage at 6:15 p.m. Known for their reggae reinterpretations of classic albums, such as Dub Side of the Moon (a reggae version of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon) and Radiodread (a version of Radiohead’s OK Computer), the group has built an international following by blending roots reggae with creative tributes to iconic rock records. Headlining the evening at 7:30 p.m. is alternative rock band Letters to Cleo. The Boston-based group rose to prominence in the 1990s with hits like “Here & Now” and “Awake,” and they are widely recognized for their appearances on the soundtracks of films including 10 Things I Hate About You. The event will be emceed by local favorite Levi Sims alongside DJ Blayze. Gulf Coast Grooves is designed to bring residents and visitors together through live music and community energy. In addition to the performances, attendees can enjoy food trucks and vendors throughout the evening. Admission is free and open to the public.