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The City of Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department is thrilled to unveil a month-long schedule of free community events that promises something for everyone to residents and visitors of all ages. Packed with fun activities, live performances, and more, August is set to be an unforgettable month in Elizabethton!

Kicking off the month in style, the First Friday Concert at the Park, sponsored by Carter County Bank, will take place on Friday, Aug. 4, at Covered Bridge Park from 7 to 9 p.m. This event will feature an incredible performance by Joey’s Van, a pop punk cover band from East Tennessee that wants to make you feel like you’re in middle school again. “Like many millennials, we were all very into the pop punk scene growing up. Today, that’s the type of music that we go back to when we’re craving that nostalgic feeling. Since most cover bands only play country and classic rock, we started this band to appeal to our demographic. Our sets are fun and upbeat, but still have a way of hitting you in the feels. Our unique, high-energy shows have established a guarantee for a good time in areas like Downtown Knoxville, throughout the Tri-Cities, TN, Western NC, and the Southwest VA regions.” In addition to live music, enjoy food trucks throughout the evening.

The excitement continues on Saturday, Aug. 5, with “The Splash,” a free admission day at Franklin Pool from 12 to 5 p.m. featuring inflatables and music. It’s the perfect way to beat the summer heat, and beat those back-to-school blues!

Music enthusiasts are in for a treat with the return of the much-loved Covered Bridge Jams. Thanks to the generous sponsorship from Eastman Credit Union and Northeast Community Credit Union, there will be two opportunities to enjoy live performances in August. On August 5, My New Favorites will take the stage, and on August 19, Hollow Ground will showcase their musical talents. Both events will be held at Covered Bridge Park from 7 to 9 p.m. and are sure to create an electric atmosphere. Food trucks will be available for service all evening.

For the rock ‘n’ roll aficionados, “Rockin’ on the Doe” is a can’t-miss event! Sponsored by Tour Carter County, Elizabethton Chamber, and Carter County Bank, this event will feature the popular band Barracuda, America’s Heart Tribute Band. Mark your calendars for this event on Saturday, Aug. 26, beginning at 7 p.m. The performance will be held on E. Elk Ave. beside Covered Bridge Park. Several food trucks will be on hand selling concessions all evening.

Calling all Pokemon Go enthusiasts! On Sunday, Aug. 27, Covered Bridge Park will transform into the ultimate gaming arena for Pokemon in the Park, during Niantic’s Pokemon Go Fest. With activities and challenges aplenty, it’s a chance for players to catch ’em all and share the thrill of the game with fellow trainers from 2 to 5 p.m. Food trucks will be on site serving all afternoon! This event wouldn’t be possible without the Carter County Drug Prevention Coalition and the Elizabethton/Carter County Public Library, who are co-hosting this event.

Bringing the month to a close, the Party at the Park at Walter Curtis Park on Thursday, Aug. 31, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., promises a memorable time for attendees of all ages. Sponsored by Tour Carter County, Elizabethton Chamber, Eastman Credit Union, Northeast Community Credit Union, and Carter County Parks and Recreation Board, this event will feature live music in the gazebo and a free hotdog lunch (while supplies last). This event is in partnership with the Elizabethton Chamber’s Prepare for Care session, held at the Elizabethton Senior Citizens Center, to prepare adults caring for aging parents.

August will also close out submissions for the Elizabethton Youth Business Fair sponsored by Carter County Bank, so if you or someone you know is between the ages of 7-18 and has their own business or is interested in creating one and participating in our single-day market during Covered Bridge Days, request an application, or for more information, email Kelly Kitchens at kkitchens@cityofelizabethton.org.

“We are delighted to present this diverse lineup of free community events for August,” said Kelly Kitchens, the Programming & Special Event Coordinator of the City of Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for families and friends to come together and create lasting memories in our beautiful city.”

The City of Elizabethton Parks and Recreation extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the event sponsors for their generous support, making these events possible.

For additional details and updates about the August events, please visit Elizabethton.org or follow Elizabethton Parks and Recreation on Facebook.

About the City of Elizabethton Parks and Recreation:
The City of Elizabethton Parks and Recreation is committed to providing exceptional recreational opportunities, maintaining beautiful parks, and organizing engaging events for the community to promote a healthy and active lifestyle.