Kevin Ray sees a lot of good reasons to get excited about the summer concert series at the Legislative Plaza.
The lawn is plush, there are plenty of trees, Red's Old 395 Grill is handing out free popcorn during the performance and the Mile High Jazz Band is the first band scheduled to appear.
But ask Ray, the special events coordinator for the Carson City Convention and Visitors Bureau, and he'll tell you why it's exciting.
Because it's free.
"People get excited about these concerts because they are a good family environment and there's no cost. We want people to bring their blankets and refreshments, come out early and scope out their spot and enjoy themselves," Ray said.
The Sunday Concerts in the Park series runs from 5-7:30 p.m. for the next six Sundays. A variety of bands, including Playa Papaya, 5 Alarm and Long Shots are scheduled to play.
"We start with the Mile High Jazz Band because they are a crowd favorite, and they kickoff the series well. Plus they are an 18-piece band, and we usually only have four-piece bands on the stage," Ray said.
The band will feature Reno jazz singer Jakki Ford, a frequent performer in area showrooms and special events who is currently completing her own album.
Ray said the series is designed to coincide with other free events taking place throughout Carson City this summer, including the Friday night concerts on Third Street and several new events taking place at the Carson Mall.
"We are planning a big luau for the mall in September and people can look forward to new events every week throughout the summer," Ray said.
The mall is hosting a cruise night in advance of the Silver Dollar Car Classic, which takes place early next month. More than 75 classic cars will be on display in the parking lot on Thursday night.
• Contact reporter Jarid Shipley at jshipley@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1217.
If you go
WHAT: Sunday Concerts in the Park series kick-off with the Mile High Jazz Band
When: 5-7:30 p.m. Sunday
Where: Carson City Legislative Plaza