This weekend is for Rock the South, but next weekend is for local music lovers who don’t mind a little free entertainment, thanks to Hanceville’s new concert series — headlined next Saturday by Alabama-bred variety trio Three on a String.

The family-friendly show introduces Hanceville to a three-concert lineup this summer at the city’s Veterans Park, with next weekend’s admission-free outing offering plenty in addition to the music: paddle boats, rock climbing, a mechanical bull, train rides, food vendors, games, and more.

Holly Pond’s Jesse Priest will open for Three on a String, a longtime bluegrass, Americana and comedy group with strong north Alabama roots who’s cultivated a loyal following through the decades. 

The group greets the start of Hanceville’s new family-oriented concert lineup this summer, which consists of one show each month from June through August.

On July 20, The Natchez Trace Band and Another Hero will play at Veterans Park at a $5 per-person concert sponsored by Bud Light (alcohol will be sold at this event with inside-the-venue restrictions). 

Then on Aug. 24, North Carolina-based gospel singers the Kingsman Quartet will perform at the city’s civic center at a dinner event where $10 gets you access to the concert, and another $10 allows you in early for the pre-concert meal.

As for next weekend’s show, the only cost is the money you spend on food and activities. Jesse Priest gets things going starting at 4 p.m., followed by Three on A String, who’ll wrap up sometime around 9 p.m. Organizers encourage guests to bring lawn chairs and blankets, and make plans to stay at the park through the whole evening.

For more information about Hanceville’s 2019 Summer Concert Series, check out the City of Hanceville’s Facebook page.

Benjamin Bullard can be reached by phone at 256-734-2131 ext. 145.