Granite City Days Kicks Off Wednesday with New Summertime by George Partnership

(KNSI) – Granite City Days returns Wednesday, June 24th, and this year, St. Cloud’s summer festival opens with something new, Summertime by George.

For the first time, the Wednesday night concert series at Eastman Park along the shores of Lake George is officially part of Granite City Days. The pairing comes through a new partnership with the Rotary Club of St. Cloud, who puts on the free summer concerts. Andy Austin opens the night at 5:30 p.m., with the Fabulous Armadillos taking the stage at 7:00 p.m. for their “What’s Going On” show, a tribute to music from the Vietnam War era.

Festival co-chair Alisa Schmitt told KNSI News that organizers approached the Rotary Club about bringing the two events together. “So, summertime by George is now officially part of Granite City Days.”

Schmitt said the addition helps restore the live-music feel the festival had been missing since its block party changed in recent years. Summertime by George is one of three new events on this year’s schedule.

Mayor Jake Anderson feels opening night will bring out some notable faces beyond the music. “St. Cloud State’s going to be there, too. So the president of the university will be there, and the hockey coach, the athletic director. So, it’s going to be a good time.

After Wednesday’s kickoff, Granite City Days continues through Sunday, June 28th, with events including the Paramount Center for the Arts and Wacosa collaboration, the Lemonade Art Fair, Park and Rock on Friday, the Granite City Days parade and the return of a fly-in pancake breakfast. A full schedule can be found by clicking here.

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