LEWISTOWN — A new weekly concert series is bringing live music, local talent and community spirit to Victory Park in Lewistown this summer as part of the celebration of America’s 250th birthday.

Beginning July 2 and continuing every Thursday throughout the summer, the Nation’s 250th Birthday Summer Concert Series will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at Victory Park along the Juniata River. The free event is open to the public and aims to provide an outlet for local musicians while expanding arts programming in the community.

The idea for the series came from local musician Steen Petersen, who sings vocals and plays rhythm guitar for the band Exit 1 Mile. Petersen approached borough officials with the proposal and was encouraged by their response.

“I approached the borough about doing a free music concert every Thursday at Victory Park throughout the summer, which they were excited about since it was one of the arts not being addressed in the borough,” Petersen explained. “My intention is to get anyone that would like to play to perform on any of these Thursdays.”

Unlike a traditional concert series featuring a predetermined lineup, the Thursday evening events are intended to be open to musicians of all ages, genres and experience levels. Whether performers play country, rock, folk, blues, gospel or original music, Petersen hopes they will take advantage of the opportunity to share their talents with the public.

“Years ago, a gentleman hosted music in the park at Kish Park, and I played a few times,” Petersen added. “I always thought it was a neat thing to do. Just a great way to bring the community back together and, with the way society is today, a way to put our differences aside with music.”

Petersen is no stranger to the local music scene. He performs with Exit 1 Mile, a band known throughout the region for its energetic live performances. Rounding out the band are Pyper Petersen on lead vocals and upright bass, Dave Hatton on vocals and lead guitar, and JD Hesketh on drums. Petersen said his involvement in music inspired him to create additional opportunities for area performers. Exit 1 Mile will perform this Thursday in the opening concert.

The concert series is designed to be family-friendly and welcoming to everyone. Residents and visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy an evening by the river while listening to local musicians. Victory Park’s scenic setting along the Juniata River provides an ideal backdrop for the weekly gatherings.

In addition to showcasing musical talent, organizers hope the series will encourage community involvement and provide a space where neighbors can connect and celebrate together. As communities across the country begin commemorating the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, the Lewistown concerts offer a local way to participate in the historic milestone.

Musicians interested in performing or residents seeking additional information about the concert series can contact Petersen at 814-207-5666.

The Nation’s 250th Birthday Summer Concert Series will take place every Thursday throughout the summer from 6 to 8 p.m. at Victory Park in Lewistown. Admission is free, and all are welcome to attend.