Groovin’ in the Gardens Summer Concert Series presented by the Center for Hospice Care returns June 25 for its fifth season at Wellfield Botanic Gardens. Last summer the series attracted more than 2,500 guests to Wellfield, a 36-acre private, not-for-profit located near downtown Elkhart at 1011 North Main Street.

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer this concert series with terrific regional music while allowing our guests to responsibly practice social-distancing across our large event area” said Eric Garton, the Robert and Peggy Weed Executive Director.

The series begins on Thursday evening, June 25 and continues weekly through August 20, featuring a range of musical styles. This year’s performances are highlighted by Memphis Underground, Paul Decker, the Tumbleweed Jumpers and includes returning crowd favorites Whistle Pigs and Darryl Buchanan.

This year’s music is complemented by delicious food and drink from Navarre Catering and Events, who will be onsite every evening serving a variety of food and cash bar with beer, wine, and spirits. Additionally, That Guy’s Gourmet Ribs will be onsite June 25, July 16, 23, 30, August 6 and 20. And while not normally permitted during general admission, picnics may be brought into Wellfield after 6 p.m. on concert evenings. Alcoholic beverages may not be brought into the Gardens but may be purchased onsite from the bar.

Ticketed guests are welcome to stroll the Gardens and visit Wellfield’s NEW Japanese-inspired “Island Garden”, which opened to the public in May after six years of construction and craftsmanship. The Island Garden is a spectacular addition to Wellfield’s beauty, a gift from Don and Jurate Krabill.

Gates open at 6 p.m. for the concerts, which are held on a stage under a large tent in the Event Garden. Concertgoers are welcome to bring blankets or chairs, though some limited chairs and tables are available first-come, first-served.

Garton added, “This is a very special year in many ways. Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, we’ve opened a new Japanese Garden, made necessary modifications to our visitation plan, and we’re extremely thankful for the support of our members and donors throughout. We look for the silver linings and are fortunate to have incredible spaces to be able to spread out and allow guests to enjoy music, food, and friends in a safe environment. Guests will notice changes to our entry protocols for everyone’s health and safety, but they can still expect the same great service and definitely a gorgeous evening at Wellfield.”

Tickets for the public are available at the gate: $10 per adult, $5 for children age 3 to 12 and free for children under age 3, but if you purchase in advance whether online or in person before the date of the concert, discount tickets are $8 per adult and $4 for children. Members receive even greater savings; season tickets are also available and are the best value if you want to see all of the concerts. Ticket pricing includes parking, admission to the garden, and this special opportunity to enjoy Wellfield after-hours. There are no ticket fees when purchasing online. Tickets can be purchased online at wellfieldgardens.org or in person at the Visitors Cottage located at 1011 N. Main Street, Elkhart IN 46514. Contact info@wellfieldgardens.org or 574-266-2006 extension 105 for more info.

This year’s lineup:

• June 25 – Memphis Underground
• July 2 – Paul Decker & The Real Deal
• July 9 – Hipposonics
• July 16 – Whistle Pigs
• July 23 – High Life
• July 30 – Tumbleweed Jumpers
• August 6 – Darryl Buchanan
• August 20 – Q Sonics

Click here for full concert information and important guest details related to COVID-19.