It was a perfect night to grab a blanket or a chair and hear some bluegrass music at Chestnuthill Park’s summer concert series, the one and only this summer. All ages were set up on the large field in front of the stage to listen to Big Valley Bluegrass.

The band is comprised of Paul Spriet, banjo and vocals,

Bill Parker, mandolin and guitar, from Rochester NY; Keith Kester, upright bass and vocals, raised in the Appalachian Mountains in Northeast Pennsylvania; Alison Gillespie, fiddle and vocals, from Coopersburg; and Tom Gillespie, guitar. They play about 70% covers and 30% originals, with some instrumentals. Some of the great covers include Bob Dylan’s “You Ain’t Going Nowhere” and “Gentle on My Mind” by Glen Campbell. Banjo player Paul Spriet noted that Robert Thomason’s “Vincent Black Lighting” is a favorite to play.

Chestnuthill Township Project Coordinator Steve Baade noted, “It’s been a few years since we had concerts. We hope to bring it back. Bluegrass is going to appeal to a lot of people in the community. It’s a beautiful day to get people out and enjoy the park before summer ends.”

Baade’s 3-year-old Alivia, three songs in, asked, “Is it over now?” The family appeared to be enjoying the concert.

The Buckley family of Saylorsburg, enjoyed the night out with 2-month-old Atlas and 4-year-old Rayna. Rayna happily danced throughout the evening. They enjoy coming to the park for walks and playing.

Mother Truckin Tacos was ready to serve up homemade tacos with flavors including “mango madness” and “Caribbean chicken.”

Owner Britney Dancho just started the business in March following years of cooking for large groups at local college cafeterias. Zoe Medina noted, “I love everything. The authentic taste and originality of the tacos. Everyone loves a good taco.”

The weather was perfect to grab a taco, a blanket or chair and enjoy the amazing bluegrass music.