Antigo’s Music in the Park returns with sausage and song

ANTIGO — Take in the sounds of summer — starting with sizzling sausage and a familiar country tune.

Langlade County’s Acclaimed Music in the Park is back for another year, returning to Antigo City Park, 220 Aurora St, Antigo, on Monday at 5 p.m. with food and desserts, with music to follow at 6 p.m.

“The first question is who’s doing the food,” said Nick Salm, Music in the Park planning committee member. “People know when there’s a concert in the park, the food’s gonna be good.”

The first event features sausages and quarter-pound beef franks from Salm Partners in Denmark, Wisconsin, who produce more than 15% of all sausage in the U.S.

“I may have somewhat of an inside track because I’m their brother,” Salm said.

He was headed down to pick up the sausages, which the company was donating to the event. The Antigo Community Band will serve the sausages, along with baked beans, root beer floats, desserts, pies and ice cream.

Not bad.

The first performers, Lovin’ Country, have just as many fans — if not more — as the sausage company.

“Even though it’s a small local group, people love their music,” Salm said.

The duo, a couple, plays a wide variety of music, performing all backup sounds needed to get the crowds on their feet.

“People love to dance to their music,” Salm said.

The Northernaires will round out the week’s events with their Thursday concert, along with pizza, desserts, pies and ice cream sold by Of Chorus.

He said community support plays a big part in the concerts. Sponsors, whether businesses or individuals, have already paid for this year’s slate.

“People enjoy supporting these community groups and supporting the music,” Salm said.

Food vendors donate 20% of their net proceeds to the city. For the first event, the Antigo Community Band will use the money raised for music programs and scholarships.

“All money raised during these events goes back in the community,” Salm said.

Sharon Gibson, treasurer, said she loves music and doing things for the community.

“I know that the people really enjoy it,” Gibson said.

She said she tries to get a few new acts each year. This year will include acts such as: Elvis John, who plays Elvis tunes; Hip Pocket, which draws a big crowd; Stone Soup, a gospel feature; the Antigo Community Band; Rocker, which plays old-time rock and roll; Jim Pekol Polka; MLC Blues; The Blue Notes, which feature contemporary blues and Texas-style swing; and Red Higgins Freedom Train.

Salm said the planning committee takes pride in seeing the events come together.

“We’re having fun doing this,” Salm said. “We’re all volunteers.”

People who want the Music in the Park schedule and want to see what’s happening in Langlade County can visit alcinfo.com.

See the complete list of performers on sidebar.