Be There: Rhythm on the River brings free fun

WHAT: Rhythm on the River concert series featuring Angela Easterling and the Beguilers and The Dawn Key Shotguns

WHEN: Saturday, May 2, 6 to 9 p.m.

WHERE: West Columbia Riverwalk Amphitheater, 121 Alexander Road, West Columbia

Roll out a blanket or unfold a lawn chair for the Rhythm on the River concert series at West Columbia’s Riverwalk Amphitheater. The series kicked off last week and runs every Saturday until June 13. This week’s concert feartures Greer native Angela Easterling and the Beguilers and local West Columbia duo The Dawn Key Shotguns.

This week’s concert is part of the 13th annual Rhythm on the River concert series, which was started by the River Alliance in 2002. The Greater Cayce West Columbia Chamber of Commerce partnered with the alliance two years later.

The series began as a way to “showcase how the amphitheater is used,” according to chamber president Gregg Pinner. Now, it attracts musicians from across the Southeast.

Upstate Americana band Andrea Easterling and the Beguilers headline Saturday’s event, which will also have food from 2108 State and beer, wine and soft drinks available for purchase.

The Vibe

Rhythm on the River is a great outing for adults and families alike, Pinner said. The outdoor amphitheater has ample green space for kids to play safely near the water, with a park ranger always present. Guests can also win door prizes during breaks in the set.

“The riverwalk is just beautiful,” Pinner said. “It’s a place where kids can hang around the river. People bring their pets, too.”

The Verdict

A free concert in a calm outdoor environment is a fun way to spend a Saturday night in May, especially while the humidity and mosquitoes of the Midlands summer are still at bay.

“Everyone’s just there to chill out and have a good time,” Pinner said. “And, hey, you can’t beat free.”

Amanda C. Coyne

This story was originally published April 29, 2015 at 2:18 PM with the headline "Be There: Rhythm on the River brings free fun."