Tarentum Recreation Board touts exciting summer lineup

Tarentum Recreation Board has released its summer lineup, with a schedule of events aimed at drawing people to the borough’s riverfront park and beyond.

“They have something for everyone,” resident Cathy Fajbik said.

“The fact that it’s free helps a lot, but, really, to look out at the boats and listen to good music, it’s just a nice evening.”

The rec board will kick off its lineup with a May 5 scratch-off bingo for senior citizens. It will begin at 1 p.m. in the marina beneath the Tarentum Bridge.

Most other activities will be in Riverview Memorial Park at Carl Magnetta Jr. Memorial Amphitheater.

The schedule includes seven concerts that will hit the stage at 7 p.m. on various Thursdays throughout summer. The series kicks off May 25 with favorite oldies band, American Pie.

The borough will host Up the River on June 9 and The Jentz on June 30.

Fajbik said the shows cover a range of music from rock and country to blues and Christian.

Audience members can visit the Snack Shack starting at 6 p.m. before each show for fare that includes nachos, hot dogs and chips.

“The favorites are the French fries and the sausage sandwiches,” said Carrie Fox, recreation board president.

Benches are available at the amphitheater, but guests are welcome to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on the grass.

She said the concert series does a great job of drawing large crowds from across the area.

“It’s a fantastic event for all ages,” Fox said.

“The selection of bands is picked for the enjoyment of all crowds.”

The park setup along the river is a perfect venue, Fox said, for the audience and the musicians.

She said several band members have complimented the atmosphere over the years.

“They love playing here,” Fox said. “We’re always proud that we have the ability to provide these events and bring people in to showcase our town.”