ST. JOSEPH, Mich. – St. Joe Today is inviting the community to celebrate all things Southwest Michigan during Love Local weekends this summer.

Love Local weekends will be held the third weekend of each month from June through September.

The goal of the event series is to promote shopping locally and supporting area restaurants and businesses.

“Businesses will be offering everything from extended shopping hours, free gift wrapping, new products, featured menu items, specials and more!” said Amy Zapal, Executive Director of St. Joe Today.

During Love Local weekends, extended hours will be as follows:

• Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Sunday: Noon to 4 p.m.

Click here for a full list of Love Local participants.

The Friday Night Concert Series will coincide with the Friday nights of Love Local weekends. These free, hour-long concerts will be held at the John E.N. Howard Bandshell.

The following bands will play at the concert series:

• June 18
  • 7 p.m.
  • PastTime
• July 16
  • 7 p.m.
  • Lake Effect Jazz Big band
• August 20
  • 7 p.m.
  • Jared Knox & The Hager Bombs
• September 17
  • 7 p.m.
  • The Backups

Both bench and lawn seating will be available for concertgoers. Guests are also encouraged to bring food to enjoy at the event.

For more information on what’s happening around St. Joseph this summer, visit St. Joe Today’s website.