Bristol Borough’s annual Doo-Wop in the Park concert is Saturday
By Samantha Bambino
The Times
As the sun sets this Saturday over Bristol Riverfront Park, its light glistening off the nearby water, the party in the Borough will just be getting started.
Beginning at 5 p.m., more than 10,000 locals and visitors from across the tri-state area will twist the night away during the 13th annual Doo-Wop in the Park — a longstanding concert tradition hosted by Bristol Borough Council that transports audiences to the unforgettable, simpler times of the ‘50s.
What began as a small-scale show for the community in 2006 to celebrate Bristol Borough’s 325th anniversary has exponentially grown over the years, today drawing thousands from Pennsylvania, New Jersey and even Connecticut.
“This annual event has morphed into the largest, single-day event in Bucks County,” said Ralph DiGuissepe, council president.
But after taking into consideration the event’s star-studded lineup, it’s easy to see why. Headlining 2018’s Doo-Wop in the Park are The Duprees, best known for their timeless hit “You Belong With Me.” Performances will also take place from Bobby “Brooks” Wilson, who will pay tribute to his legendary father Jackie Wilson, as well as Eddie Holman, The Knockouts, The Vogues and the high-energy girl cover band The Chiclettes.
Doo-Wop in the Park is a free, family-friendly concert. The only things attendees are encouraged to bring are lawn chairs and blankets for comfort. For early arrivers who want to secure a front-row spot by the stage, DJ Greg Whit, who is emceeing, will turn the park into a dance floor. As he plays classic doo-wop favorites, guests of all ages are invited to show off their best moves.
Of course, such a jam-packed evening of entertainment is bound to work up a few appetites. Food trucks will be on hand selling pizza, burgers and cheesesteaks to those who want a quick bite. Bristol’s ever-blossoming dining district, which boasts a number of restaurants within walking distance of the concert, will also have its doors wide open. At King George II Inn, Itri Wood Fired, Chuck’s BBQ, Jules @ Market and more, guests can enjoy everything from American to Italian and Mexican cuisine. The concert is an alcohol-free event.
For the thousands of concert-goers who hail from other towns (and states) and don’t have the luxury of walking to the show from their homes, free parking is available at the Lenox Building on the 1400 block of Radcliffe Street. Courtesy buses will begin at 3:30 p.m. and run consecutively until 11 p.m.
Anna Bono Larrisey, event co-chairperson and Bristol Borough tax collector, is also reminding attendees of the docks, which she said serve as the perfect spot to enjoy the show from the comfort of a boat.
According to Larrisey, this year’s Doo-Wop in the Park is expected to amass its largest crowd yet thanks to the area’s ever-growing national recognition as the winner of Deluxe Corporation’s Small Business Revolution. The concert is one of the many ways Bristol is keeping its SBR momentum going as it continues to show the world what a small but scrappy town can accomplish.
“It’s just one big festive afternoon into evening,” she said. ••
If you go…
Doo-Wop in the Park will take place Saturday, Sept. 15, at 5 p.m. A rain date is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 16, at 2 p.m. Parx Casino, PECO and Gilmore & Associates are the evening’s major event sponsors. Concert information is available at bristolborough.com, facebook.com/events/1729082677209681, or by calling Anna Bono Larrisey at 215–788–1600 during normal business hours. Go to visitbristolborough.com/dining for more on restaurant options.
Samantha Bambino can be reached at [email protected]
