NEDERLAND — Looming gray clouds threatened rain on the night of the first of the Summer Concert Series, but as the music elevated the crowd, the clouds parted and the sun kissed the community a final time, inviting them to dance, to twirl, to outwardly express the freedom of the Nederland spirit. 

On Saturday, June 6, starting at 4 p.m., Chipeta Park became the town’s destination for good fun and good vibes, as the main lawn became the perfect outdoor concert venue, with Clay Rose and Adam Perry and headliners The Alcapones gracing the stage as the series opener. 

Nederland locals and visitors alike were invigorated by the music and fresh air.

Photo by Christopher Kelley

The 2026 Summer Concert Series is the third iteration of the annual event, created by the Nederland Downtown Development Authority (NDDA).

Sweetwave Audio, the production company for the series, was hired for the third year in a row by the NDDA back in November for their audio engineering expertise, equipment and talent management, and experience with local events, including Nedfest and Frozen Dead Guy Days.

Thanks to Sweetwave Audio’s expertise and the NDDA’s support behind the scenes, the first of six summer concerts was a great success, as the sound from the bands seemed to stay within the park, infusing the crowd and creating an intoxicating mood. 

There may have been more than a handful of curious tourists who came upon the scene, but it was clear from the very energy emanating out of the park that this event was something special for locals—perhaps a much needed spiritual catharsis, a release, with that energy exchanged for the positivity that only local art, music, and nature can cultivate.

The people of Nederland brought blankets, chairs, coolers with drinks and snacks. Some even tailgated the event along Lakeview Drive, sitting in their truck beds and sliding-door vans. Kids ran through the field with water pistols and bubble makers. Dogs sat patiently with their owners, enthralled by the goings-on around them, excited to sniff and play as other dogs approached them.

Those in the know were sure to bring provisions and supplies.

Photo by Christopher Kelley

For the first time in a long time the community came together not for any specific purpose or mission other than to enjoy a free concert in the park. And with the amazing lineup provided for the kickoff concert of the series, the crowd was treated to some of the best vibes of the Peak to Peak area.

Openers Clay Rose and Adam Perry brought the crowd down home with some real feet-in-the-dirt rock and bluegrass. Headliners The Alcapones celebrated 14 years together as the popular ska-rock fusion band by putting their hearts and souls into getting the crowd up on their feet.

The Alcapones brought the perfect vibe for the opening of the concert series.

Photo by Christopher Kelley

Those who may have missed the fun this past weekend have no reason to stress, as the 2026 Summer Concert Series is just getting moving and grooving, with acts such as Shakedown Street, Link&Chain, and Tierro Band with Bridget Law set to perform throughout the summer. 

The next concert is on Saturday, June 13, in Chipeta Park, from 4 to 7 p.m., and will feature Hazel Miller and The Collective, along with the Ryan Benthall Band.