A new summer tradition is set to debut in downtown Guthrie as the Guthrie Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Wonderfolk Distillery and local sponsors, launches Guthrie’s Downtown Downbeat on Saturday, July 11.
The event will serve as a new community celebration leading into the annual Fireworks a Poppin’ fireworks show, filling the downtown district with live music, food trucks, vendors, family activities, and entertainment.
The Downtown Downbeat was created after organizers of Red Brick Nights announced the retirement of the longtime event following a successful 10-year run. Looking to continue offering a large-scale downtown music experience, Guthrie Tourism Director Justin Forney approached the Chamber of Commerce about developing a new event tied to the city’s popular fireworks celebration.
“We felt like there was an opportunity to create something new while still partnering with the amazing fireworks show that Fireworks a Poppin’ puts on every year,” Chamber President and CEO Brittany Timmons said during a recent episode of the Chris Evans Podcast.
The name “Downbeat” comes from the first note of a musical composition. The branding also pays homage to a smaller music series previously held downtown several years ago.
Activities will begin at 5 p.m. around the Shoppes at Oklahoma Avenue and the Wonderfolk Distillery campus. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and spend the evening enjoying live entertainment, food vendors, and shopping opportunities before the fireworks show begins.
Opening the musical lineup will be Guthrie-based band Joker to the Right, a popular local group known for energetic performances and crowd-favorite cover songs. Headlining the event will be Tulsa singer-songwriter Jolene Brown, an emerging country artist whose career continues to gain momentum across Oklahoma and beyond.
“We’re really excited about both acts,” Timmons said. “Joker to the Right brings a lot of fun and energy, and Jolene Brown is an incredible talent.”
Wonderfolk Distillery has signed on as the presenting sponsor of the inaugural event. Distillery Manager Darren Vincel said supporting community events remains an important part of the company’s mission.
“We know how important an event like this is to Guthrie,” Vincel said. “It’s one of the best fireworks shows in Oklahoma, and we’re honored to be the presenting sponsor.”
Wonderfolk will offer a special outdoor cocktail and mocktail station during the event while also welcoming visitors inside its tasting room throughout the evening.
In addition to live music, the festival will feature food trucks, local vendors, shopping opportunities, and a free kids zone sponsored by Integrated Electric Heat & Air. Inflatable Playground will provide free inflatables for children.
Other event sponsors include Experience Guthrie, Vance Auto Group, Guthrie Brewing Company, F&M Bank, and several community partners.
Organizers hope Downtown Downbeat becomes more than a one-night event and can eventually expand into additional music-centered experiences throughout the year.
“Our hope is that Downtown Downbeat can grow into something that means music and community in downtown Guthrie,” Timmons said. “This is just the beginning.”
When the music concludes, attention will shift to Jelsma Stadium, where Fireworks a Poppin’ will launch its annual fireworks display in celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
The free Downtown Downbeat event begins at 5 p.m. Saturday, July 11, in downtown Guthrie. Fireworks will follow later that evening.
Be the first to comment on "Watch: Chamber launches new ‘Downtown Downbeat’ ahead of firework show on July 11"