Party in the Park to feature local talent

After hosting world-famous band Molly Hatchet at last year’s festivities, Party in the Park will be featuring local talent at this year’s July 1 event.

The Creston Parks and Recreation Board reviewed contracts from local musicians Tuesday at their meeting.

The Mike Walsh Band, Garrett and the Relics, Dustin Baird and Ridin’ Shotgun will be the performers for the event. Todd Kinkade said he continues to receive positive feedback from the community.

“I got some comments from people that are actually sponsors and everything that said they’ve been wanting to do this for a long time,” he said. “They said they’re real excited that we’re doing a local thing, trying it out anyway.”

In December, Kinkade approached parks and rec, suggesting the board use local bands and solo artists for the annual event. He said he has heard people wonder why the board spends money on a band and loses profit when the party is intended to be a fundraiser.

Mike Walsh, a Creston native, will open the show with his band. Featuring a mix of country and americana, the 27-year-old will also perform originals including “One More Beer” and “Tennessee.” The artist dropped his first album, “Losing Control,” this year.

“I am both excited and thankful to be performing at this year’s Party in the Park with many other great musicians and artists,” Walsh said. “The band has been rehearsing a new setlist that should be fun for everyone who attends.”

Garrett and the Relics is a rock and blues cover band led by 16-year-old Garrett Stephens of Creston. The band has performed at multiple local establishments including The Lobby and Hot Air Brewing.

With 12 events scheduled before Party in the Park, Dustin Baird is a seasoned performer. From 90s to early 2000s contemporary music, Baird performs a little bit of everything.

Ridin’ Shotgun is no stranger to Party in the Park, having opened for Molly Hatchet in 2022.

“We’re like southern rock and we do throw some of that country rock in there and we have some party songs thrown in there,” Kinkade said. “We’re like a party band.”

While the event may have to start earlier to accomodate the number of performers, parks and rec member John Kawa said he’s excited for the event to make some money this year with the total cost of performances being under $4,000.

The board plans to reach out to local restaurants for a variety of food options and support more local business.