After last year’s summer hiatus because of the pandemic, live concerts are coming back to Soldotna Creek Park starting in June.

The free concert series is sponsored by the Levitt Foundation, a family institution supporting local art, culture and education. Performances will kick off at 6 p.m. on June 2 and occur every Wednesday evening through August 25.

Soldotna Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Shanon Davis said the Levitt Foundation requires a diverse lineup, including “diverse genres” and a “good representation of [diverse] races.”

The series will kick off with performances by Zen Trembles and opener Shonathin Hoskins.

Davis said the bands must also perform 80% of their original music, and provide a family-friendly experience.

The last time the chamber hosted concerts in 2019, Davis said it wasn’t unlikely for upward of 2,000 people to gather in the park.

To limit the spread of COVID-19, Davis said she and her team have formulated various mitigation protocols. There will be hand-washing stations and new pod-operated picnic tables in the park, as well as a mask-only area by the stage for people to gather in closer proximity.

Davis said she’s looking forward to hosting social events once again.

“The feeling that you have while standing in that park in the summertime — it just is the best thing in Soldotna,” she said. “It’s wonderful.”

The concert series will also include options to dine with food vendors and at the beer and wine garden.

More information can be found at the Levitt AMP Soldotna Music Series Facebook page. Many artists also have their music available to stream on Spotify.

Reach reporter Camille Botello at camille.botello@peninsulaclarion.com.