OAKLAND — Music is a great way to get people together, and cities and towns have traditionally organized popular events such as music concerts on the lawn.
But how about music on the porch instead?
The historic town of Oakland not only likes that idea, but has made it an annual traditional. That’s why the town in West Orange County has kicked off its 4th Fridays Music on the Porch: Summer Series.
So where will you be on Friday evenings?
What Is the Fridays Music On the Porch Series?
The Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center has teamed up with the Town of Oakland and HAPCO Music Foundation for this engaging summer concert series, an opportunity to enjoy live music in a town known for its charms and beautiful surroundings.
This summer’s 4th Fridays Music on the Porch kicked off on Friday June 24 at the Heritage Center’s building, 126 W. Petris Ave. and continues this month and in August. These shows are free and open to the public, with food trucks available during the evening.
Coming up, David Alan Bruce and Eighteen 87 will play on Friday, Aug. 26 from 3-6 p.m. Bruce, a resident of Oakland, is a guitarist, singer and songwriter who has headlined Gazzarri’s on the Strip, the Troubadour and other Los Angeles clubs, and is now a solo artist.
Show up a bit early, and enjoy the Heritage Center’s history and its ongoing art exhibitions, “Old Town Road” and “Land, Water, Air,” which will be open during the performance. You can find out more about this series by visiting www.oaklandfl.gov/artsandheritage.
Who is Sponsoring the Music on the Porch Series?
Oakland is one of the most historic towns in Central Florida, one that dates back to 1887, but has remained free of heavy over development. In addition to the town’s picturesque downtown, Oakland attracts visitors for its parks and trails and the recreational activities they provide, including Pollard Park, Speer Park, and VanderLey Park.
Oakland also hosts the Jake Voss Pier overlooking Lake Apopka and the West Orange Trail.
HAPCO is devoted to arts and music programs that enable young people to learn how to use their artistic and musical talents through camps, clinics, master classes and private instruction. The kids are taught by industry and community professionals, and the program strongly encourage artistic expression.
The Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center is committed to preserving Oakland’s past, present and future, and supports the mission of Healthy West Orange, a grassroots movement to inspire west Orange County to become the healthiest community in the nation.
For more information, visit www.oaklandfl.gov/artsandheritage and www.facebook.com/HWOAHatOakland.
Michael Freeman is an Orlando journalist, playwright, and author of the book When I Woke Up, You Were All Dead. Contact him at Freelineorlando@gmail.com.
