Citrus Heights’ “Backyard Bash” Signals a Shift Towards Community-Focused Events
Citrus Heights is gearing up for a spring filled with free, open-air concerts at the Marketplace at Birdcage, kicking off April 3rd with the “Backyard Bash” series. This event, featuring bands like Aces, Department of Rock, and Hack Attack, represents a growing trend: a deliberate move towards accessible, community-driven entertainment.
From Brew Fests to Backyard Bashes: A Cost-Conscious Evolution
The “Backyard Bash” series emerges following the cancellation of the annual “Brews in the ‘Burbs” event, which ran from 2019 until last year. Sunrise MarketPlace Executive Director Katihlynn Carpenter explained that the brew fest had become “extremely expensive” due to the costs associated with hosting dozens of breweries and requiring an entry fee. This shift highlights a broader industry challenge: balancing revenue generation with community accessibility. Many cities and business districts are re-evaluating event models to prioritize inclusivity.
Interestingly, a previous attempt at a “Backyard Bash” last fall was postponed due to a scheduling conflict with the Sunrise Recreation and Park District’s 75th anniversary Jubilee celebration. This demonstrates the increasing competition for community event dates and the demand for careful coordination between local organizations.
The Rise of Sponsorship-Funded Community Events
The “Backyard Bash” is financially supported by sponsorships from Republic Services and State Assembly Member Josh Hoover, illustrating a key element of the new event model. Carpenter emphasized that the business district aims to provide free events to boost awareness for local shops and businesses, with expenses covered by sponsorship funding. This reliance on sponsorship is becoming increasingly common as municipalities and business improvement districts seek to deliver value without placing financial burdens on attendees.
This model isn’t unique to Citrus Heights. Across the country, cities are actively seeking corporate and community partnerships to fund public events. For example, many summer concert series in parks are now presented “by” a major local employer, demonstrating the symbiotic relationship between community engagement and corporate social responsibility.
What to Expect at the “Backyard Bash”
Attendees can glance forward to three Friday evenings of live music, running from 6 to 9 p.m. Behind Jamba Juice at 6061 Sunrise Blvd. Beyond the music, the event will feature a variety of local food trucks and a beer and wine garden hosted by the Rotary Club of Citrus Heights. This combination of entertainment, food, and beverages creates a holistic community experience.
The inclusion of a beer and wine garden hosted by a local service organization, like the Rotary Club, is a smart move. It provides a revenue stream for the club while adding an amenity for attendees, further strengthening the community ties.
The Future of Local Events: Accessibility and Community Focus
The “Backyard Bash” series exemplifies a trend towards more accessible and community-focused events. The emphasis on free admission, local vendors, and sponsorship funding suggests a move away from large-scale, expensive festivals towards smaller, more intimate gatherings that prioritize community building. This approach is likely to become increasingly prevalent as cities and business districts seek to create vibrant, inclusive spaces for residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for the “Backyard Bash” series? The series will be held on April 3rd, April 17th, and May 1st.
What time does the “Backyard Bash” start and end? The event runs from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM each night.
Where is the “Backyard Bash” located? It’s located behind Jamba Juice at 6061 Sunrise Blvd, in the Marketplace at Birdcage.
Is there a cost to attend? No, admission is free!
Who are the sponsors of the event? Republic Services and State Assembly Member Josh Hoover are sponsors.
Will there be food and drinks available? Yes, there will be local food trucks and a beer and wine garden hosted by the Rotary Club of Citrus Heights.
Did you grasp? The “Backyard Bash” is taking place in the space previously used for the “Brews in the ‘Burbs” event.
Stay tuned for more local event updates and community news. Share this article with your friends and neighbors and let’s support local businesses and events!