News Summary
Nags Head will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Jockey’s Ridge State Park with a four-day event from June 5-8, featuring a concert by The Connells. The celebration includes activities such as kite festivals, nature programs, and a drone show, culminating in a performance by award-winning singer-songwriter Mojo Collins. Attendees can enjoy free tickets for these events at jockeysridge50.com, marking a significant milestone for both the park and the local community.
Nags Head will host a special celebration to mark the 50th anniversary of Jockey’s Ridge State Park from June 5-8. Highlighting the festivities will be a concert by the well-known band The Connells, a septet based in Raleigh, scheduled for June 6 at 7 p.m.. This year marks a significant milestone for the park, known for its stunning sand dunes and outdoor recreational offerings.
The anniversary celebration will take place at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, located at 300 West Carolista Drive. The concert by The Connells will feature their most popular songs, allowing fans to enjoy nostalgic melodies rather than seeking to introduce their music to a new audience. The performance is expected to attract many long-time followers of the band, who have been performing in the area for decades.
The Connells, founded in 1984 by brothers Mike and David Connell, have released a total of nine full-length albums. Known for their melodic pop sound, the band has had the distinction of collaborating with notable producers such as Don Dixon and Mitch Easter. Their music has gained recognition both on MTV and various radio stations, establishing a diverse fan base.
Some of the band’s most recognized tracks include “’74-’75,” “Fun and Games,” and “Scotty’s Lament.” Musical influences for The Connells include iconic artists such as The Beatles, The Clash, and The Cure. Lead guitarist Mike Connell notes their focus on creating catchy three-to-four-minute pop songs, which has profoundly shaped their musical output.
The band has a rich history of performing at famous Outer Banks venues like Atlantis Beach Club and Kelly’s Restaurant and Tavern, both of which are now closed. Their connection to the community has been strengthened through these performances, and their concert at Jockey’s Ridge is poised to rekindle fond memories for their supporters.
Following The Connells’ performance, attendees can look forward to a Sky Elements Drone Show, marking it as the first-ever such show in the Outer Banks. This innovative display will enhance the celebratory atmosphere and create a memorable experience for those present.
In addition to the concert and drone show, the celebration will feature a range of activities for visitors of all ages. Highlights include a kite festival, ranger-led nature programs, hang-gliding demonstrations, a sandcastle contest, sunrise yoga, trivia games, and a disc-golf tournament. These events aim to promote outdoor enjoyment and appreciation for the natural beauty of Jockey’s Ridge State Park.
The festivities continue on June 7 with additional performances by Mojo Collins and Triple Vision. A special moment will include the raising of the North Carolina flag, followed by the national anthem, which will be sung by Betsy Robinson. Mojo Collins, an award-winning singer-songwriter, will perform his composition “Shining Star Over Jockey’s Ridge,” originally written for the park’s opening ceremony in 1975.
For those interested in attending The Connells’ concert and the accompanying drone show, tickets are free and can be obtained at jockeysridge50.com. This anniversary celebration promises to be a significant event for both the park and the local community, commemorating five decades of outdoor experiences and memories.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Press: The Connells at Jockey’s Ridge Celebration
- Wikipedia: Jockey’s Ridge State Park
- The Coastland Times: Southern Shores Police Department Blotter
- Google Search: The Connell Band
- Flashbak: 1980s Snapshots of New York City
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Outer Banks
