Once on the chopping block due to budget cuts, Salem’s Concerts in the Park series is returning Friday to Riverfront Park.
Three bands will play at the free concert held at the Gerry Frank Salem Rotary Amphitheater from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The event will return to downtown Salem again on Sept. 13.
Due to proposed budget cuts, the concert series, along with Movies at the Park, splash pads and relay races, looked to be doomed earlier this year . A last-minute motion to use on-time funds ultimately saved the events, but the future remained uncertain for the concerts.
With a tight timeline and a reduced budget, two Salem businesses stepped up to bring the concert to life, said Salem’s events program manager Kathleen Swarm.
“Without the support from RiverCity Rock Star Academ y and Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre it would have been difficult to make this year’s concert series happen,” she said. “Their backing is providing A/V staff, equipment, event planning assistance, and most importantly positive, enthusiastic support of live music and fun events for our community.”