Summer Jazz and Fun in San Gabriel City

Elliot Caine Quintet (Photo – elliottcaine.com).

Looking for fun, free, family activities? Look no further than the City of San Gabriel’s “Parks After Dark” and “Summer Nights Music and Movie” nights that run through August 23.

By Cheryl Cabot

Jazz Nights at the Mission Playhouse Plaza begin Thursday, June 21^st with the Elliot Caine Quintet. Inspired by “60’s Blue Note” style of jazz, as well as by the music of Tito Puente and Mongo Santamaria, the Elliot Caine Quintet plays original compositions as well as the works of Lee Morgan, Hank Mobley, Donald Byrd, et al.

Always a crowd favorite, Louie Cruz Beltran and his Jazz Ensemble return to the Playhouse Plaza on July 5^th.  His Afro-Cuban rhythms always get people up and dancing.

The jazz continues on July 26^th with Yuko Mabuchi Trio and on August 23 with Kiki Ebsen and the Jeff Colella Quartet finishing the season.

All concerts start at 6:30 pm, but you can begin your evening with live music and Happy Hour and/or dinner across the street at The Pizza Place.

Chairs are provided, but for maximum comfort, bring your own lawn chair. There is plenty of parking in the Mission Playhouse parking lot.

Parks After Dark

For family fun, enjoy “Parks After Dark” entertainment on Tuesdays at Marshall Community Park, 311 West Marshall Park and Thursdays at Vincent Lugo Park on the corner of Wells and Ramona Streets. Activities, crafts and music run from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm with free movies at 8 pm. Bring a blanket and picnic dinner for added fun.

For a complete listing of all Summer activities in San Gabriel, check Parks After Dark and Summer Nights.

Cheryl Cabot lives in San Gabriel. She’s a retired school teacher, free-lance writer, political activist, grandmother and avid lawn bowler.