Today's the day for Road to Country Thunder

Join the “party before the party” as Florence hosts Road to Country Thunder.

Every year, the producers of Country Thunder, one of the largest country music festivals in the country, partner with the town to say thank you to the residents of Florence with a free one-day concert. Florence has hosted Country Thunder since 2003.

While the show may be a thank you to residents of Florence, Road to Country Thunder is open to everyone in the region.

Road to Country Thunder takes place from 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday, April 6 on Historic Main Street. Country Thunder runs April 11-14 at Canyon Moon Ranch, 20585 E. Water Way.

“Get ready to kick up your boots and join us on Historic Main Street for the Road to Country Thunder music extravaganza,” Florence Mayor Tara Walter said. “As we gear up for the Southwest’s premier country music event, our pre-festival bash promises an unforgettable experience filled with toe-tapping tunes, mouthwatering food, refreshing drinks and endless fun. Proudly presented by the town of Florence and Country Thunder, this celebration is not to be missed.”

Road to Country Thunder showcases up-and-coming country music artists, as well as state and local performers. This year’s lineup consists of Anthony Taylor Jr., Ryan Ralston, local favorites 10th & Main and headliner Lacey Rashea & The Young Guns.

While the producers of Country Thunder provide the pricey stage, sound system and lights, the town supplies the rest of the fun.

Guests will have the opportunity to ride a mechanical bull and Padilla Park will be transformed into a kid zone with a splashpad, inflatables and backyard games.

In addition, I Heart Radio Tucson will be on site hosting a raffle for Country Thunder tickets.

Food vendors will also be at the show. Food trucks include Rolling Dough Pizza, Sunshine Funnel Cakes, Pick Six BBQ and Churrolicious.

Along with food, other vendors will be offering an array of products and services, including Lasso & Lace Accessories, J Heart Designs and Hippie Bling Boutique. There will also be a voter registration booth.

Of course, some businesses and restaurants on Main Street will  be open before, during and after the  concert for locals and out of towners to enjoy.

Before you hit the road the town of Florence is asking attendeed to check out its parking and event guide. Parking is located at:

• P1 - The Viney Jones Library and Community Center, 778 N. Main St.
• P2 - Town Hall, 775 N. Main St.
• P3 - Heritage Park, 600 N. Main St.
• P4 - Dorothy Nolan Senior Center, 330 N. Pinal St.
• P5 - Quartz Lot, 231 N. Quartz St.
• ADA parking, McFarland State Park, 24 Ruggles St.

Entrances to the show will be at:

• Ruggles and Main streets
• Bailey and Sixth streets
• Main and Eighth streets

Items prohibited at the concert are:

• Glass containers
• Canopies
• Outside food and beverages
• Drones, unmanned aircraft devices and remote-controlled vehicles
• Alcoholic beverages and illegal substances
• Animals, except for service animals for guests with disabilities.
• Bottles, cans, thermoses and other beverage containers
• Fireworks
• Weapons, knives, box cutters, firearms, etc.
• No smoking (only in designated area)

We’d like to invite our readers to submit their civil comments, pro or con, on this issue. Email AZOpinions@iniusa.org. Janet Perez can be reached at jperez@iniusa.org.