As the Hopelands concert series celebrates its remarkable 50th anniversary this year, we reflect on its rich history and enduring legacy, shaped by the dedication of the city of Aiken and its people. From its humble beginnings in 1974, guided by the visionary aspirations of numerous esteemed citizens of Aiken and city officials, this series has blossomed into a cherished tradition.

With just three events in its inaugural year and no stage in sight, the concerts were held amidst the serene beauty of the gardens themselves. It wasn’t until 1976 that the iconic stage we now cherish was finally built, marking a pivotal moment in the series’ evolution. The Friends of Hopelands and Rye Patch even spearheaded the request to rename the stage in honor of the city manager who helped create the concert series. This organization has also tirelessly secured funding and support for maintaining the stage and surrounding areas in pristine condition with the help of the city of Aiken, ensuring that the concerts can continue to be enjoyed by generations to come. 

Despite facing various challenges, including navigating the uncertainties of the recent pandemic, the concert series has remained steadfast, offering solace and joy to the Aiken community year after year. Each passing season has seen its growth, a testament to the enduring affection and support it receives.

Now, as we commemorate half a century of community, we invite you to join us for this special anniversary celebration. Immerse yourself in enchanting performances by talented local artists, perfect for the entire family. Gather with loved ones amidst the natural splendor of Hopelands Gardens, and let the music uplift your spirits. The series will kick off on April 1 at 6:30 PM and continue through June 24^th, with concerts held every Monday evening. It’s a time-honored tradition not to be missed—a celebration of music, community, and fifty years of cherished memories.

We are excited to unveil the lineup for the 2024 Hopelands Concert Series. Please note that performance dates and artists are subject to change.

• April 1, 2024, at 6:30 PM: Savannah Sunday Band, sponsored by Vikki & Brandi at Meybohm, The Aiken Homes Team 
  The Savannah Sunday Band brings together a talented lineup: lead singer, songwriter, and rhythm guitarist Robb Underwood, recognized as a 'Writer to Watch' by the Nashville Songwriter Association; bass guitarist Mark Rich, an Air Force veteran with a rich musical background; lead guitarist Reed Moseley, whose passion for music was ignited at the age of 10, influenced by legends like Johnny Cash; and drummer Brandon O'Neill, whose love for 60s and 70s music led him to pick up the drums at 21, inspired by "Hocus Pocus" by Focus. Don't miss their exciting performance at Hopelands Gardens this year!

• April 8, 2024, at 6:30 PM: Gavin Reily Band, Sponsored by Aiken Performing Arts

Gavin Reily has written and performed from Nashville to L.A., but he discovered his true voice and groove after settling in Aiken, South Carolina. Now, accompanied by his co-writer and bassist Jim Paczynaki, veteran musician Stuart Stahr on drums, harmonica extraordinaire Danny “Doc” Boon, and lead guitarist Canaan Peeples, Gavin Reily Band presents their original, toe-tapping, infectiously melodic music. So come groove along, enjoy the ride, and share in this unique journey with the Gavin Reily Band.

• April 15, 2024, at 6:30 PM: Wayne Hoey Big Band, sponsored by Cumberland Village
  The Wayne Hoey Big Band is an ensemble of twenty musicians, all from the Central Savannah River Area, who enjoy performing hits from the Big Band Era. We mix it up with arrangements of popular tunes.  

• April 22, 2024, at 6:30 PM:  Southern Elite Cloggers, sponsored by DayBreak
  A national award-winning team is ready to take the stage. Come see the Southern Elite Cloggers perform a variety of routines from ages 3 and up through senior adults.  They are under the direction of Kristle Golden, Rachel Blair, and Tori Solomon.  These ladies and gentlemen have won thousands of awards and put on a spectacular show.  So come out and enjoy Aiken's very own Cloggers with their hand-clapping and foot-stomping routines.

• April 29, 2024, at 7:00 PM: The SureFires (Jaycie & Brooke), sponsored by The Willcox

  The SureFires “Jaycie & Brooke” was formed after the two gals happily got hired together as back-up singers for the popular “Goin’ South” (A Tribute To Southern Music) and has headlined shows at notable places like The Miller Theater, The Riverfront Amphitheater & Lexington Icehouse to name a few. Once they saw the response to them joining forces as a harmonious female duo, they knew they had something special. They are thrilled to perform their acoustic stylings of popular songs (and maybe a couple of originals in between)!

• May 6, 2024, at 7:00 PM: Aiken Concert Band,

The Aiken Concert Band is a non-profit organization created to promote musical entertainment and enjoyment to the citizens of Aiken and the Central Savannah River Area. The band is presently composed of over 70 talented musicians from the Aiken area. The band is currently under the leadership of Music Director and Conductor Mr. Todd Jenkins.

• May 13, 2024, at 7:00 PM: Preston & Weston, sponsored by Aiken Horse Realty
  An Aiken favorite, Preston & Weston offers spirited renditions of R&B classics, shag, beach, and pop music. Their mix also includes jazz standards, reggae, blues, and even some country. Preston and Weston have lots of vocals, lots of laughs, and lots of fun. 

• May 20, 2024, at 7:00 PM: Savannah River Winds, sponsored by W.O.W.
  Formed in 2001, Savannah River Winds is composed of music teachers, high school and college band directors, professionals, and college students. The group is currently under the direction of Richard Brasco, and their performance will feature Broadway hits, big band classics, and marches.

• May 27, 2024, at 7:00 PM:  Aiken Civic Ballet Company, sponsored by Friends of Hopelands Gardens & Rye Patch, LLC

  The Aiken Civic Ballet Company is South Carolina’s longest continuously-operating dance company. ACBC produces original ballets and contemporary dance works under the direction of Artistic Director, Diane Toole Miller. 

• June 3, 2024, at 7:00 PM:  Aiken Brass Band, sponsored by Aiken County Farmers Market
  The Aiken Brass is made up of six members and has been performing for over 20 years at church services, weddings, festivals, and parties. Members of the group often perform with many other organizations throughout the community.   

• June 10, 2024, at 7:00 PM: Heart & Soul, sponsored by Security Federal
  Heart & Soul is made up of seven local musicians who perform together each year for the Aiken Women’s Heart Board benefit at the USCA Etheredge Center. In addition, they often perform for local parties, festivals, and weddings throughout the community.

• June 17, 2024, at 7:00 PM:  The Experiment & the I-20 Horn, sponsored by HASC
  The Experiment and the I-20 Horns are a group of 7 Musicians from the Aiken, North Augusta, and Augusta areas. The group consists of 2 trumpets, tenor sax, trombone, guitar, bass guitar, and drums. The diverse backgrounds of all the performers allow the group to play all genres of music for all occasions.

• June 24, 2024, at 7:00 PM: Parris Island Marine Band, sponsored by The Screenprint

• Factory and Friends of Hopelands Gardens & Rye Patch, LLC
  The Parris Island Marine Band has been a part of the Hopelands Concert Series for over 30 years, performing patriotic staples like John Philip Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever.” This crowd favorite completes the series on a high note.

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for comfortable seating. While picnic dinners are allowed, please note that alcohol is not permitted. This family-friendly concert series is free for all to attend. In case of inclement weather, the performance will move to Gym 2 at the Odell Weeks Center, located at 1700 Whiskey Rd.

 
Parking for the event is located across the street from Hopelands Gardens at the Green Boundary Club, 780 Whiskey Road. Handicap parking spaces are conveniently accessible at Rye Patch on Berrie Road and at Hopelands Gardens on Dupree Place.

For more information, please call 803-642-7631 or visit www.cityofaikensc.gov or www.facebook.com/VisitAikenSC.

In the event of inclement weather, the rain-out hotline is available at 803-643-4661, you can follow the City of Aiken PRT social media accounts @aikenparksandrec, download the City of Aiken Explorer App for instant notification of any changes (you will need to sign up and enable notifications), or text “AIKENRAINALERT” to 91896.