Montpelier’s Parkapalooza Returns for One Day of Music, Fun, and Community
On Saturday, August 23rd, Hubbard Park will come alive from 4–8pm with Parkapalooza, a FREE, one-day celebration at the Old Shelter and Stage. Enjoy live local music, tasty treats, and family-friendly fun, all while supporting Montpelier’s parks and music scene.
Music kicks off at 4:30 PM with D. Davis & Marc Gwinn, followed by headliners Slap Happy Jack from 6–8 PM. Led by guitarist/vocalist Joey Dorwart Crane, the nine-piece band blends rock, big band, blues, and swing for a high-energy evening.
This year’s event grew from the friendship between Joey and Josh Jackson of Timber Homes of Vermont. The two met over a decade ago when their wives were pregnant at the same event, and their shared love of music kept them connected. When Josh learned the annual summer series wasn’t happening, he teamed up with Joey to bring Parkapalooza back — securing sponsors, booking musicians, and keeping the tradition alive.
A longtime musician, Joey has played in wedding bands, bar bands, garage bands, and more since high school, eventually forming Slap Happy Jack with his wife Andy (of Blossom Wellness), who also sings in the band. Originally from Colorado and California, the couple traveled and camped in Vermont before settling in Montpelier. Last year, they wowed audiences with their Slap Happy Santa Christmas Spectacular, and now they’re bringing that same spark to Hubbard Park.
Beyond the music, enjoy raffle prizes benefiting Montpelier parks, sweet and savory crepes from La Bonne Crepe Cart, and a selection of non-alcoholic drinks. Sponsors include Timber Homes, Blossom Wellness Center, Onion River Outdoors, and the City of Montpelier.
“I’m always amazed at how many unbelievably good musicians live here,” says Joey. “It’s intimidating to a degree, but it’s also an honor to play with them and bring everyone together for something special.”
Grab your friends, family, and blankets, and join us at Hubbard Park on Saturday, August 23, 4–8 PM for this free, family-friendly celebration.