Hempfield cancels summer concert series, movies in the park

Hempfield’s new amphitheater will sit empty this summer after township officials canceled their annual concert and movie series.

“We do not feel we could adequately meet the social distancing requirements and large group gatherings that are currently in play and we do not want any additional expenses on us at this time,” said Aaron Siko, director of parks and recreation for the township.

The regulations, which cap outdoor events at 250 people and indoor events at 25 , were put in place to help curb the spread of the coronavirus.

The township’s summer concert series began last year with the opening of the Hempfield Smail Auto Group Amphitheater in Hempfield Park. Several local bands performed in five concerts throughout the summer, and food trucks attended the events.

Movies in the park were slated to begin this month, after the start date was delayed as township officials worked to comply with covid-related regulations. Siko originally planned to have people register for each event, which would have been limited to 250 people. The viewing area would have been roped off with entry and exit points.