Live music with a picnic is back on the menu as the popular Summer Bands programme returns to two Basingstoke parks again this year.

Kicking off on Sunday 19 July, the free outdoor performances will bring a line-up of talented local brass, silver and concert bands to Eastrop Park or War Memorial Park every Sunday from 3pm to 5pm until the final event on Sunday 6 September.

Visitors are invited to bring a picnic, unfold their deckchair and relax while enjoying music in two of the borough’s most-loved green spaces.

Date	Location	Band
Sunday 19 July	Eastrop Park	Rushmoor Concert Band
Sunday 26 July	Eastrop Park	The Tadley Band
Sunday 2 August	Eastrop Park	4 in a Bar
Sunday 9 August	The War Memorial Park	Cove Brass
Sunday 16 August	Eastrop Park	Basingstoke Silver Band
Sunday 23 August	The War Memorial Park	Sax n Trax
Sunday 30 August	The War Memorial Park	East Woodhay Silver Band
Sunday 6 September	The War Memorial Park	Camberley and District Silver Band

Eastrop Park is a popular town centre park with Green Flag status. Alongside a boating lake, paddling pool, play area and tree trail, the River Loddon runs through the park.

A short walk from Top of the Town, The War Memorial Park is a historic Georgian park that provides a scenic backdrop for the live performances with its historic bandstand, mature trees and garden features.

Cabinet Member for Sports, Leisure and Culture Cllr Kerry Morrow said: “There is something special about listening to live music outdoors on a summer afternoon and we're delighted to be bringing the Summer Bands programme back for another year.

“These free performances are a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors, support talented local musicians and spend quality time with loved ones. Whether you’re packing a picnic, getting together with others or simply looking for a relaxing afternoon in the sunshine, we’d love to see people making the most of these special summer events.”

The full programme of performances can be found on the council’s website at www.basingstoke.gov.uk/SummerBands