Downtown events include bands, movies, fireworks

Staff Writer

gjohnson@theeasleyprogress.com

EASLEY - Businesses want more crowd-attracting activities downtown and city leaders hope to satisfy residents' desires for more community entertainment.

And with rising gas prices, families are already planning summer vacations at home.

But what is there to do?

Attend the Summer Music Series, which kicks off Easley's 2008 community events.

Beginning May 2, the music series will play host to a number of bands, including Carolina beach music leader The Catalinas.

"Plans are moving extremely fast to kick off the opening program for the City of Easley Community Events Program," said event Chairman Scott Buckhiester, general manager of DunBurks Premier Events, which has been contracted to handle Easley's events.

"Bands are booked and vendors are in place to provide the community with an evening of music, fun and food."

Buckheister said he is repeatedly approached by people pleased with having more activities downtown.

The goal is to provide family focused fun to Easley residents and enhance the ongoing revitalization efforts. By expanding on the previous two festivals, four large festivals and six smaller evening events have been planned.

After The Catlinas, the series will continue every other Friday night through July with a variety of local and regional talent.

July Fourth is the first big event with Celebrate America, a large-scale festival featuring music, food, crafts and children's activities. Celebrate America culminates in a performance by local favorite The Flashbacks and an expanded fireworks display.

Downtown streets will be closed to accommodate the anticipated large crowds, Buckhiester said.

"This is another great way Easley offers the community top entertainment and celebration," he said. "The best part is all activities are free, and open to everyone."

The second-annual Outdoor Movie Series begins in the fall and will conclude with a two-day holiday celebration in December and a new First Night Festival.

DunBurks President Rhonda Duncan said a lot of work has gone into the designing of every event, large and small, with activities for everyone.

"Our goal is to create an atmosphere of family and community in the city where our small town appeal really begins to shine," Duncan said.

"Local businesses will have the opportunity to participate in sponsorship of the events to show their support for the community," she said. "It's a great way for businesses to support the events while showcasing their business. Easley will experience a great year of events and we are very excited to be able to be part of it."

For more information and to view the complete year line up visit www.easleyevents.com.