Summer concerts are back in Wittenberg

Open Tab performs for 30 to kick off 2021 WOWSPACE series
By: 
Luke Reimer
Reporter

Music was in the air as Walls of Wittenberg held its first of three summer concerts on June 8 at the Art Park, next to the WOWSpace.

The Oshkosh-based band Open Tab played for approximately 30 Wittenberg area residents. The music played ranged from pop to rock, with songs including Britney Spears’ “Toxic” and The Animals’ “House of the Rising Sun.”

The concert was free and visitors were welcomed to take a bottle of water as the temperature rose above 90 degrees at the start. An ice cream truck was also on site as another way to cool down.

WOW President Elaine Knab said the organization has been holding concerts in the park for over 10 years.

The night drew a small crowdthan the approximately 100 who usually attend, she said.

“I am sure that the high heat has deterred people in the community from coming out tonight,” Knab said.

This concert was sponsored by the Doris and Irving Hanson Memorial Fund, Incredible Bank, Crossroads Community Theatre, and Walls of Wittenberg. Knab said that the community plays a part in putting these concerts on.

“We get some donations that are used exactly for these concerts,” said Knab. “What we do is we go around and we look for bands to play.”

Knab said that the concerts have become increasingly popular even through the COVID-19 pandemic last year, with one of the concerts bringing in 125 visitors.

Knab believes that holding an event like this for the community brings some variety to summers.

“It gives the community members an event to go to during the week,” said Knab. “It also brings out the kids. This allows parents to come out and relax while the kids run around and play.”

Outside of Wittenberg, Knab said that she occasionally sees people from the Wausau area in attendance.

“We don’t really see anyone from too far outside of the community,” said Knab. “Unless they are here visiting someone.”

Knab also views these concerts as an opportunity to publicize Walls of Wittenberg.

“You would be surprised to see how many local people don’t even know that we exist,” said Knab.

According to Knab, the concerts in the park have been well received.

“I think people enjoy these concerts,” said Knab. “People say, ‘Oh yeah, we will be back, I will tell my friends and bring my cooler and chair.’ People have been very receptive towards it.”

Concerts will continue to run through the summer. Quarry Road is set to perform July 13, while the Drovers are slated for Aug. 17.

lreimer@newmedia-wi.com