Amur Plaza in downtown Grand Island is the site for Hear Grand Island events, (Carol Bryant, Central Nebraska Today)
GRAND ISLAND – Hear Grand Island is entering its eighth consecutive year.
A news conference about Hear Grand Island occurred May 3 at the Visit Grand Island office on Third Street.
Hear Grand Island has enlivened the historic downtown district of Grand Island, drawing more than 3,000 enthusiastic attendees weekly to Amur Plaza located right in the heart of the Railside District in downtown Grand Island.
Hear Grand Island partners with Nebraskaland Distributors, featuring a curated selection of ten local breweries alongside an exclusive beer collaboration with Zipline Brewing Company. Attendees can drink the finest brews while reveling in the melodic performances that define the Hear Grand Island experience.
Returning for its third consecutive year, the 4th Street Festival promises an immersive celebration of diversity and culture. With live entertainment, eclectic street vendors, and tantalizing cuisine options, this event invites attendees of all backgrounds to come together.
Brent C. Lindner, co-founder of Hear Grand Island, said he is “super excited” about this year’s Hear Grand Island.
Brent Lindner, (Carol Bryant, Central Nebraska Today)
“As each year goes by, we’re getting better talented bands,” Lindner said.
Hear Grand Island is offered over a 10-week period, and also includes the 4th Street Festival. Lindner said approximately 3,200 people attend each concert. Last year, there were seven concerts. The 4th Street Festival attracted 19,000 people over two days, Lindner said.
He is praying for no rain on concert dates this year “so we can get out and have shows.” Lindner noted there is no cover charge for the shows, which occur at Amur Plaza on Third Street in downtown Grand Island.
T.J. Roe of Lincoln is the managing director and talent buyer for Hear Grand Island. He is from Grand Island.
T.J. Roe, (Carol Bryant, Central Nebraska Today)
“We try to cast as wide of a net as we can” to get bands, Roe said. Bands that have appeared at Hear Grand Island include country, rock, hip hop, and rhythm and blues. Bands come from locations ranging from Grand Island to San Diego.
Danielle Skorniak, Hear Grand Island marketing director, is going to use innovative social media and marketing strategies to expand Hear Grand Island’s reach.
Brad Mellema, executive director of Hall County and Grand Island Convention and Visitors Bureau, emphasized the importance of community festivals like Hear Grand Island.
Jamie Parr, executive director of the Nebraska State Fair, unveiled the “Fairest Band of All” State Fair event in partnership with Hear Grand Island.
