This evening Jazz in the Park kicks off with the Gary Davis Band at Cathedral Square Park.
Jazz in the Park rates high on my list of favorite summer activities here in Milwaukee. Not only because of the great music, but also because it’s a great chance to either pack a picnic or pick up something on the go from your favorite restaurant or marketplace.
While some people opt for the standard chair, blanket and a bottle of wine, I have seen others go all out with small tables, china, and silverware to go with their meal. Last year I even spotted a beautiful floral centerpiece and some tiki torches. Talk about glam!
Provided we don’t get hit with thunderstorms, I may take the easy way out tonight and pick up an antipasto platter from Mimma’s and some beverages, then stake out a place somewhere close to the stage.
If I was feeling really industrious I would pick up a loaf of bread at the Milwaukee Public Market or Peter Sciortino’s over on Brady Street, then head to Glorioso Bros. to pick up some the other items needed to make this super easy muffuletta. (Sure, you could get the other fixings at the Public Market too, but I love any excuse to go to Glorioso!) I’d throw in some chips and some Sprecher Root Beer, for a little local flavor, and there you go. A great picnic.
Should you decide to go, here are a few tips that may seem obvious, but are certainly worth noting if you are visiting or new to town:
--Arrive a little early. Not paparazzi-stalking kind of early, but early enough to find parking and stake out your spread.
--Take a light jacket or sweater. Temps are always cooler near the lake and if you are cold-natured like me you may be glad to have another layer.
--Bring something good to eat. Good music demands good food!
I'm getting hungry. Let's get summer started!
Posted by: Dave | June 07, 2007 at 05:22 PM
is it kosher to bring a bottle of vino to jazz in the park or river rhythms?
Posted by: Jim | June 08, 2007 at 08:37 AM
Don't know the official answer to that Jim. Just reporting what I observed last year at Jazz in the Park. ;-)
Posted by: Audra | June 08, 2007 at 11:06 AM
Jim, not only are you allowed to bring beer, wine or whatever else you want to drink, I would say that 90 percent of the people there are partaking in some adult beverages. You will find lots of bottles of wines being poured among friends.
How many people would actually come and watch terribly bland smooth jazz ala 93.3 FM without alcohol?
Posted by: Jeff | June 13, 2007 at 09:17 AM
Thanks Jeff.
Posted by: Jim | June 17, 2007 at 03:18 PM