Centennial Sundays Have Park Rockin'

Folding chairs, classic rock music and people of all ages filled the lawn of Centennial Park, Sunday, July 28, for the final Sundays in Centennial, a free concert series and family fun activities put on by the Waukee Area Arts Council.

The event started with a puppet show from Jester Puppets. Children watched and interacted with the puppets before the concert.

After the puppet show, Brother Trucker, an American roots rock band began playing as people watched and children danced. 

Alicia Kennedy, of Waukee brought her law chair and said she enjoyed listening to the music.

"I've come every week," Kennedy said. "I think it makes for an awesome night. I've enjoyed every band."

Susan Fred came from West Des Moines with friends to listen to the music. 

"I'm a fan of the outdoor concerts where you can bring food and drink," Fred said. 

The Waukee Area Arts Council was given a grant from Prairie Meadows. Karen Dluhos, past president of the Waukee Area Arts Council, said she is thankful for the grant. 

"It's huge," Dluhos said. "We are pretty excited to have families here and to offer it free to the community. We want to give people to opportunity to experience the arts without leaving Waukee."

Joe Schaefer, of Ankeny, said he has been to all the concerts. 

"They do an excellent job of getting good performers that are mostly locals," Schaefer said. "It's a very nice and entertaining evening."

Tammy Stifels, of Waukee went to the event with her family and dogs. 

"It's a fun, great event where families can bring their kids," Stifels said.