As the sun started to peek over the tree lines, it cast its bright rays on hundreds of blankets laid out in anticipation of an evening filled with music and fireworks.
Early birds were up and at it, staking their claim to a good spot, around 5:00 Friday morning when the park opened. Concertgoer Paul Prusha said he has been coming to the free show for years and loves getting to spend the evening surround by friends ."It's just such a good party. We have a whole bunch of friends coming tonight, so it's just a great family event and such a good time."
Starting this year, Metro Credit Union, along with Baxter Volkswagen, Woodmen Life and NewsRadio 1110 KFAB, took over the sponsoring duties after the previous sponsor decided not to keep up on the tradition. Prusha says, as a customer, he was excited to hear that Metro would be taking over hosting duties. "They're a great organization. I was actually thrilled when I saw that they were gonna sponsor this and keep it going, cause it's a party for 70,000 people. Can't let it die, so I was thrilled."
Jayne Ball says she has been coming down to set up early for decades and it has become a bonding tradition. "Sometimes we're a little bit grumpy, we're like 'Why are we up this early?' but my two daughters came to help set up. My granddaughter, can't believe that, she got up early to come. We got a text from my son, 'Are you ladies there yet? Ready to rush Memorial?' so yeah, it is kinda a bonding thing."
The concert runs from 6:00 to 10:00 PM and will be followed by a fireworks finale. Omaha band the Confidentials will open the show followed by Bostyx and Starship.
To check out more details on the concert click here.