Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) invites music fans to gather under the stars at the picturesque Dugas Pavilion for the much-anticipated 2025 Concerts in the Village series. From April 10 to June 12, every Thursday night promises memorable performances featuring renowned bands, tribute acts, delicious eats from local food trucks, and a new gourmet cheese tray catering option from Wine World’s Cheese Shop.
Gates open at 6 p.m., concerts start at 7 p.m. General admission is lawn seating. Bring blankets or low-back beach chairs and enjoy dinner from the featured food trucks.
Here’s a detailed guide to this season's lineup:
April 10: The Fabulous Thunderbirds – Kick off the concert series with The Fabulous Thunderbirds' signature blend of blues and rock. Famous for powerhouse hits like Tuff Enuff and Wrap It Up, their high-energy performance guarantees an unforgettable evening. Food Trucks: Curry in a Hurry, The Locals Rollin' Eatery
April 17: Journeyman: An Eric Clapton Tribute – Journeyman faithfully recreates the legendary Eric Clapton experience, delivering authentic performances of timeless classics such as Layla and Wonderful Tonight. Food Trucks: Spork, Raman Filipino
April 24: Yacht Rock Revue – Embark on a smooth musical journey with Yacht Rock Revue, bringing back favorite soft-rock hits from the '70s and '80s by icons like Hall & Oates, Steely Dan, and Christopher Cross. Food Trucks: Fuel, Soosh Plus!
May 1: Black Jacket Symphony: Journey's Escape – Experience Journey’s classic album Escape performed live, note-for-note by the acclaimed Black Jacket Symphony, including beloved hits like Don't Stop Believin' and Open Arms. Food Trucks: Curry in a Hurry, The Locals Rollin' Eatery, Repicci's Real Italian Ice & Gelato
May 8: Dear Amy: Amy Winehouse Tribute – Celebrate the legacy of Amy Winehouse with Dear Amy, whose captivating renditions of hits like Rehab and Back to Black are sure to resonate deeply with fans. Food Trucks: Spork, Raman Filipino, Dippin' Dots
May 15: Kickstand Jenny – Kickstand Jenny promises a rockin’ good time with high-energy performances and a dynamic setlist full of rock 'n’ roll favorites guaranteed to keep the crowd energized. Food Trucks: Fuel, Soosh Plus!, Repicci's Real Italian Ice & Gelato
May 22: The Molly Ringwalds – Transport yourself to the 1980s with The Molly Ringwalds as they ignite the stage with their energetic and nostalgic tribute to the decade’s biggest hits. Food Trucks: Soosh Plus!, The Locals Rollin' Eatery, Dippin' Dots
May 29: Petty Hearts: Tom Petty Tribute – Join Petty Hearts, one of America's top tribute bands, in celebrating the legendary music of Tom Petty with timeless hits such as Free Fallin' and American Girl. Food Trucks: Curry in a Hurry, Raman Filipino, Repicci's Real Italian Ice & Gelato
June 5: A1A - Jimmy Buffett Tribute – Embrace island vibes and Parrothead spirit with A1A, the official Jimmy Buffett tribute band, as they deliver beloved tropical hits and laid-back rhythms. Food Trucks: Spork, Fuel
June 12: Adrenalize: Music of Def Leppard – End the series on a high note with Adrenalize, bringing Def Leppard’s iconic rock anthems like Pour Some Sugar on Me and Love Bites to life. Food Trucks: The Locals Rollin' Eatery, Soosh Plus!, Dippin' Dots
New this season, enhance your concert experience with gourmet cheese platters from Wine World’s Cheese Shop in Destin. Medium trays ($59.99 +tax) include four cheeses and four salamis, and large trays ($99.99 +tax) offer five cheeses and five salamis with larger portions. Orders must be confirmed by 3 PM the day before the concert, but last-minute availability may exist if you call before noon on Thursdays. To order, call Wine World’s Cheese Shop at (850) 269-2902. Payment and confirmation required by phone.
Feeling lucky? Enter to win a rotating list of valuable raffle prizes donated from local businesses. Raffle drawing is either at intermission or after each concert. Available for purchase with cash or card.
General admission tickets are $35 per person, plus ticketing fees. Save $5 per ticket by purchasing in advance online at MKAF.org/events. A limited number of VIP tables seating eight remain for individuals and businesses. Call Deb Nissley at (850) 650-2226 to check availability.
Proceeds from all sales directly support MKAF’s ArtsReach initiatives, benefiting K-12 students and individuals with special needs, and active-duty military and veterans.
MKAF members enjoy early entry and free admission to every concert. For details on membership and tickets, visit MKAF.org or call (850) 650-2226.
