The summer sun has finally started to set, and the day’s cooling down. Just across the street, the late afternoon breeze splashes waves against the beach. And in Austin Park, live music’s playing. When they recently remodeled the park, the City of Clearlake committed to bringing live music to town. So they put in a covered stage on the corner of Olympic and Lakeshore Drive, and this summer started hosting concerts. The city couldn’t have placed it better. The swoop of the stage’s covering swoops with the mountain and lake, framing the picture. And as the sun sets behind Mt. Konocti, it turns the park shades of pink and purple, backlighting the musicians.
People spread out through the park; those early to arrive spread out in the shade, coolers next to them. Some sing along while others dance in front of the stage, lost in the music. Others laugh, chat with their friends, and enjoy a beautiful evening in Lake County. Off to the side, Our Tiny Diner’s cooking up great food and Helena Welsh from the Lake County Winery Association’s pouring glasses of wine.
The concerts in Clearlake began on the 4th of July when the park filled with people ready to dance and watch fireworks. And they’re winding up the season on September 11th, when they host Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers, a ZZ Top tribute band. They put on a great show, and, yes, the beards are real.
You may have missed some of the other concerts in Austin Park this summer, but this is one you definitely don’t want to skip. Labor Day’s over, and Lake County’s slowly starting to quiet down for the winter. That makes September concerts some of my favorites. So grab a blanket and a few chairs, a cooler, and an umbrella. It’s still summer, but the evenings now bring a hint of Fall’s chill air. Then settle back for a few hours and listen to some great music as you watch the day end.
Austin Park is located at 14077 Lakeshore Dr, Clearlake, CA 95422. Their final concert of the 2021 season is September 11th at 6pm.
@BeerDrinkersHellRaisers
