Putting the funk back into Fridays
‘Funky Fridays,’ the weekly summer concert series on the front lawn of the historic Hood Mansion in Kenwood, returns June 7 with the five-piece wall of Blues, R&B and soul that is Levi Lloyd & Friends.
“We’re excited to launch our seventh year of Funky Fridays!” said Bill Myers and Pavlak, who co-founded Funky Fridays in 2013. “This year guests will see new improvements at the Hood Mansion site, including permanent displays about the fascinating history of this area. We also have a terrific band line up. Funky Fridays just gets better every year!”
The series runs through August 30. Future shows include:
June 14: The BluesBurners
June 21: The Big Fit
June 28: Volker Strifler Band
Followed by: Poyntlyss Sistars Band, Dylan Black Project, Gator Nation, Soulshine, Rock and Roll Rhythm Revue, Jami Jamison Band, Soul Fuse and Stax City. The popular Funky Dozen will close out the season.
New this year, Palooza Gastropub will be the exclusive beer partner. No outside alcohol is permitted at the venue, and concert-goers are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy foods from the on-site vendors – featuring Picazo Café, Tri-Tip Trolley, Phat Salads, and Rainy Day Chocolates.
The $10 admission goes to Sonoma County Parks.
“Thanks to the generosity of Funky Fridays founders Linda and Bill, we have made a variety of improvements to Regional Parks in the Sonoma Valley,” said Melissa Kelley, executive director of the nonprofit Sonoma County Regional Parks Foundation.
So far, Funky Fridays proceeds have repair fire damage to the Hood Mountain fire road, supported volunteer park projects, provided transportation for preschool-aged children to visit Sonoma Valley Regional Park, protected wildlife and park visitors by installing ‘bear boxes,’ and much more.
Funky Fridays gates open at 5:30 with 7-9 p.m. show time. Adult admission $10. Children 18 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or in advance. Parking is free.
The complete band schedule, volunteer sign-up, advance ticket sales and more details about the event are available at www.funkyfridays.info.
