Two of Chattanooga’s favorite concert series kick off this weekend, and a free doughnut could be in your future. Here’s what to know.
* Concerts on the Lawn: Chattanooga Theatre Centre, 400 River St., will welcome Rick Rushing & the Blues Strangers to open this three-week series on Thursday. Doors open at 6 p.m. for happy hour, and the concert begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for students. theatrecentre.com
* National Doughnut Day: Krispy Kreme and Dunkin’ will give away free doughnuts Friday. At Dunkin’, you’ll get a free classic doughnut of your choice with the purchase of a beverage. No purchase is necessary at Krispy Kreme, and you can double your freebie if you show proof of a COVID-19 vaccination.
* Nightfall: The Top 3 finalists from the Road to Nightfall competition – William Casey, Fantastic Confabulation and Off the Left – will perform Friday in the first show of the long-running summer concert series, produced by Chattanooga Presents. Music starts at 7 p.m. at Miller Plaza, 850 Market St. Across M.L. King Boulevard at Miller Park, artisans, lawn games and family friendly activities will offer additional entertainment. Admission is free. nightfallchattanooga.com
* Area 61 Gallery, 721 Broad St., Suite 100, will feature encaustic artists Nadine Koski and Janet Campbell Bradley at a first Friday reception. Other artists from the gallery’s roster will be on hand for the mix-and-mingle, set for 6-8 p.m. The featured works will be on view through July 5. area61gallery.com