Looking for an unforgettable summertime experience that combines world-class musical performances with breathtaking scenery? You need look no further than the Trailblazers’ Summer Concert Series at the O.C. Tanner Amphitheater in Springdale. Built in 1976, the Tanner is nestled in the shadows of Zion National Park, surrounded by the charm of Springdale with its many restaurants and shops. Since undergoing significant renovations including new sound and lights, this venue is ready to host a summer full of music, dancing, and fun.
The Trailblazers’ Summer Concert Series, sponsored by Dixie State University, kicks off again June 10, bringing country favorite Eric Dodge back to the stage to headline Country Jam. This multi-artist festival format will feature Dodge’s music as well as line dancing instruction provided by Miss Vickie. Other performers may be added as time permits.
Rock Fest will return to the Tanner on July 8 featuring headliner The National Parks. The National Parks, based in Provo, has enjoyed playing time nationwide and toured the U.S. to rave reviews promoting their two most recent albums. Joining them will be local favorite Many Miles. Led by Dave Tate and Victoria Lagerstrom, Many Miles combines incredible musicianship with infectious grooves that will get you out of your seat and on your feet.
And the Trailblazers’ Summer Concert Series is just getting started. The big news of the summer is the return of country superstar Collin Raye to southern Utah. Raye is a country music legend who has produced four platinum-selling albums and charted no fewer than 30 singles, four of which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Country Music charts. His hits include such immediately recognizable classics as “In This Life,” “I Can Still Feel You,” and “Harder Cards to Play.” Raye will perform at the Tanner Aug. 4.
Only one week after Raye takes the stage, the Tanner will welcome Nathan Pacheco with the Lyceum Orchestra Aug. 11. Pacheco is a graduate of BYU and is currently signed to Disney’s Pearl music label. He is touring to promote the release of his new religious album, “Higher.”
A little-known fact is that O.C. Tanner built the amphitheater more than 40 years ago specifically to provide a suitably breathtaking venue at which the renowned Utah Symphony could perform. It seems fitting, therefore, that Utah Symphony just announced that the Tanner will be the first stop on its “Great American Road Trip” tour beginning Aug. 29. Tickets will be free of charge to the public but will first be offered as part of a season ticket package that goes on sale May 1. Tickets will be required for entrance to the event and available through the DSU box office starting June 1.
The third annual Zion Matrix festival featuring sacred music performer and internationally renowned kundalini yoga and meditation teacher Aykanna will be held Aug. 9. Zion Matrix is a concert focusing on community, awareness, philanthropy, dance, and live music.
Breathtaking Zion National Park, which surrounds the Tanner Amphitheater, provides the backdrop for the Zion Canyon Music Festival the last weekend in September when the festival will once again fill the Zion Corridor with music, art, and fun. This festival, which began in 2009, was started with the intention of providing a variety of genres of music by local and national musicians. This year features the funk-rock band Groovement, one-man reggae hip hop sensation El Dub, southern Utah staples The Reals, country-rock bad boy Raven Cain, local legend DJ Lex, and more.
The event will feature local food vendors, handcrafted art booths, bounce houses and kid activities, and a beer and wine garden. The festival is a green event that emphasizes sustainability and education as two of its core principles. The Zion Canyon Music Festival, which is powered by solar energy and uses only recyclable products, is truly a one-of-a-kind event in southern Utah.
Season and individual tickets are on sale now. Visit the DSU box office, call (435) 652-7800, or visit dsutix.com to purchase your tickets now. Details regarding the series can also be found at octannershows.com.
