'Band Blast' returning to New Kensington's Memorial Park

Many events were canceled last year because of the covid pandemic. The annual Band Blast at New Kensington’s Memorial Park had the distinction of being canceled not once, but twice.

It’s scheduled to come roaring back this Sunday, with 11 bands scheduled to take the stage from noon to 8 p.m. Gates open at 11:30 a.m. at the park off Route 56.

The 11 bands cover a wide variety of music genres, including rock ‘n roll, alternative rock, metal, southern rock, country, contemporary Christian and doo-wop.

About a half-dozen acoustic acts also will be playing all day at the nearby pavilions, said Lou Downard, a member of New Ken/Arnold Social in the Park, which hosts the event.

“We try to put on a show where there’s something for everybody,” Downward said.

Admission is $5.

The New Ken/Arnold Social also sponsors “Rockin’ Roosevelt,” which was held in Arnold’s Roosevelt Park in June. Proceeds from the event help to maintain Roosevelt Park and keep it open for the public to enjoy.

The first Band Blast in Memorial Park was held in 2014, and it usually raises $3,000 to $3,500 that goes toward the upkeep and improvement of Memorial Park. The last was in 2019.

“It’s a nice way to give back,” Downard said.

Last year’s event was canceled first in August and then again in October, Downard said.

Not being able to hold the event in 2020 “hurt a great deal,” Downard said. “We had zero dollars to contribute to the park.”

It also was a let-down for the bands, who volunteer their half-hour sets.

“The musicians were just champing at the bit,” Downard said. “Some of them travel from the Pittsburgh area. They don’t get paid a dime. They do it because they love to play live and because they love to help people. There was nowhere for them to play.”

In addition to music, Band Blast will feature food vendors, attractions, community groups, children’s activities, and a 50/50 raffle. Those attending can bring lawn chairs or blankets.

Downard said they encourage attendees to wear face masks and maintain social distancing.

“We’re just glad to be back,” he said.