Jonesboro, AR – JonesboroRightNow.com – Sunset sessions will be returning to the Bandshell at Craighead Forest Park starting in late May.

Jonesboro Parks and Recreation announced on its social media the return of the sunset sessions, in which area musicians put on outdoor concerts at the Bandshell at Craighead Forest Park. The sessions were first started by a Parks promoter who was a musician, which, after discussions with other musically inclined Parks employees, blossomed into something bigger.

Jonesboro Parks and Recreation director Jim Stearns said these sessions were previously held every week. This time, however, Stearns said the concerts would be held once a month. They are scheduled from May through September, with shows blocked off from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., with start times to vary.

The return of the sunset sessions follows recent renovations to the Bandshell. Improved seating and lighting, a new sound booth, and more have been installed.

“We’re just trying to get people to come out in the park and try something different. There’s so many activities at Craighead Forest, but we also want to include the activities that we have,” Stearns said. “The Bandshell’s incredible, the sound is great here, the stage is large. It’s really just a matter of getting people to remember that it’s out here.”

This month’s sunset session is set for May 23 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The dates for upcoming months are listed below:

  • June 20
  • July 18
  • Aug. 15
  • Sept. 19

The concerts will be free to attend, and for all ages; however, Stearns noted that the bands will have a bucket to collect donations.

Stearns said the goal was to have as many genres played as possible, including folk, blues, country, rock and more. Those interested in performing can reach out to the Parks office at 870-933-4604.

Heading into summer 2027, Stearns said he hoped the sunset sessions would continue.

“I think this is gonna be a staple of Craighead Forest,” Stearns said. “I think it’s gonna be something we’re gonna try to do every summer, just to get more people into the parks.”

Craighead Forest Park is located at 4910 S. Culberhouse Road, with the Bandshell located at Access 6.

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