For the first time ever, the Village of Palmetto Bay is hosting a summer concert and beer garden on July 14, from noon to 5 p.m., at Ludovici Park. Admission and parking are free.
The concert will feature the sounds of a popular local band with a special connection, The Fire Brigade, whose members are Miami-Dade County Fire Fighters. The high-energy rock and roll group was formed in 2004 between emergency calls at Firehouse 16 in Homestead.
The event will include an antique car show, a Peterson Harley Davidson booth, a beer garden (ID required), and fun rides for kids. Food and drink will be available for purchase.
Mary S. Fernandez, special events supervisor for the village, explained their goal for the precedent-setting concert event.
“We are staying in tune with residents’ requests for high quality seasonal programming all year long,” Fernandez said. “We have pulled together several elements to what we believe will be a popular summertime event for our vil- lagers. There’s really something for everyone at this event.”
The car show, organized by “Benefit Car Shows,” will feature a showcase and openballot competition of 30 cars, all pre-1977. If you vote for your favorite car you are automatically entered in a drawing to win exciting giveaways, including a champagne brunch provided by 94th Aero Squadron, free oil change provided by Cutler Auto Repair, a powder coating service provided by Bullseye, as well as other prizes.
Food vendors will offer a variety of favorite items, according to Fernandez, who suggested a picnic approach to the event.
“We wanted to dish out iconic summer fare such as hot dogs, frozen lemonade, kettle corn, shaved ice and, of course, icecold beer,” Fernandez said. “Don’t forget to bring lawn chairs, beach blankets and plenty of sunscreen.”
JJ Catering will sell skewers, hot dogs, burgers, frozen lemonade, french fries, and other items. Kona Ice will sell refreshing shaved ice with a choice of flavors. Incredible Kettle Corn will sell colorful popped-on-site kettle corn. Dadeland-based “World of Beer” will offer a wide selection of cold beer available for purchase.
Peterson Harley Davidson will provide a complimentary jump bike for riders for photo ops or anyone who just wants to sit on a Harley. There also will be face-painting, a bounce house, and a unique special guest.
“We are thrilled and honored to host a special appearance by famed Tuskegee airman Lt. Col. Eldridge F. Williams,” Fernandez said. “He’s 94 and lives right here in South-Dade.”
Sponsors for the event include Sunstate Bank and Bullseye Powder Coating, and Palmetto Bay Village Center is allowing the event to use their parking lot.
If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the event will be postponed to Sunday, July 21. For more information, contact Mary Fernandez, Village of Palmetto Bay at 305-234-6383.
