Parks and Recreation spotlights upcoming events

As summer continues, Hopkinsville Parks and Recreation is preparing to host a variety of events for music lovers and those wanting to beat the heat.

Sounds on the Square and Hoptown Idol will be taking over Founder’s Square in downtown Hopkinsville on Friday. Hoptown Idol is a singing competition that invites residents to show off their voices for the chance to win $500 and receive a two-hour recording session with Hip Hoptown Records.

Parks and Recreation Superintendent Toby Hudson says contestants have submitted singing auditions, and at the competition the eight finalists will sing in front of a panel of judges and a winner will be crowned.

During the competition, attendees can grab a bite to eat from local food trucks and vendors. The singing gets underway at 6 p.m.

For kiddos wanting to cool down, Parks and Recreation and the Hopkinsville Fire Department will be hosting the last Hoptown Hose Down of the season at 1 p.m. on August 12 at Joe Mumford Park.

Then to bid farewell to summer, Parks and Recreation will be hosting its ninth annual Summer Salute Festival on September 12 and 13. Hudson says day one will include performances by local band Saved By the Music and Earth, Wind and Fire tribute band Shining Star. Then day two will include performances by country music group The Frontmen and country artist Easton Corbin.

Carnival rides, bounce houses and merchandise and food vendors will also be taking over downtown Hopkinsville at this year’s Summer Salute. To learn more about Parks and Recreation’s upcoming events visit hoptownrec.com.