New Providence 'Family Fun Concert' Series Returns Thursday

The popular Summer Concert Series is returning to New Providence this summer at Centennial Park with three bands residents know well. 

Sponsored by the New Providence Business Community, the first of the three free concerts will kick off Thursday with Elefante Family Band.

On July 18, Tim Gillis Band will perform and The 1910 Fruitgum Company will follow on July 25. Each concert will begin at 7:30 p.m., rain or shine, and community members can bring blankets and lawn chairs. If rain puts a damper on the outdoor performance, it will be moved inside in the municipal gym.

“It’s fun for everybody,” says Jimmy Vardas, owner of Prestige Diner who organized the concert series with Al Elefante, owner of Elefante Music. “We have great music that is appealing to the adults and the kids, and we also compliment it with the face painting and the magician on site, as well as the free hot dogs and ice cream.”

Free hot dogs will be provided by Prestige Diner, while the free ice cream will be provided by Zita’s Ice Cream.

Concert series sponsors include: Braunschweiger Jewelers, Creative Wallcoverings and Interiors, the Downtown Improvement District, Elefante Music, Lassus Whereley & Associates, New Providence Lions Club, Prestige Diner, Prudential New Jersey Properties, Dr. Robert T. Robinson, DDS, and Zita’s Ice Cream.

Vardas said he estimates about 300 to 500 community members will attend each concert.

“We have seen an increasing attendance, we have seen people looking forward to it. It’s very important for us to see people visit and explore the downtown, and the merchants as well as have a great time at the beautiful Centennial Park,” Vardas told Patch. “This is a free event for the residents, provided and supported by the local business community and sponsors. We welcome everyone to attend. It’s a guaranteed fun, family night.”

Business Community Spokesperson Michelle Brugger encourages community members to visit the downtown prior to each concert this month.

“This free community event, sponsored by New Providence Business, is made possible because of generous donations from our local businesses,” Brugger said in a press release. “Why not enjoy dinner out before the concerts or pick up a pizza or other foods from our local restaurants and have a picnic, or even take the opportunity to come downtown a bit earlier and do some shopping before the concerts.  We want people to support New Providence businesses as much as the businesses support the community.” 

Elefante says this series is meant to be an evening out for the whole family.

“The featured bands appeal to adults, but are also kid friendly,” Elefante said in a press release. “Our hope is that the whole family will come out to enjoy top quality entertainment, grab a hot dog or ice cream, and have some fun. We want everyone to feel welcome, from kids to seniors.”