Concert in the Park Fills St. Francis with Music, Community, and Celebration

St. Francis came alive on Saturday, September 6th, as Concert in the Park once again delivered an evening of music, food, and community spirit at the City Park. Thanks to the dedication of Larry and Terri Finley, who started this tradition seven years ago, the night was filled with unforgettable moments.

A Local Voice to Start the Night

The evening opened at 6:00 p.m. in the shade of the park with local favorite Janelle, whose name was proudly displayed on t-shirts throughout the crowd. Armed only with her acoustic guitar and a voice that carried effortlessly across the lawn, she sang a wide-ranging setlist — from Stevie Nicks classics to Gnarls Barkley and more. Her nearly two-hour performance had people tapping their feet, swaying in the grass, and reminding everyone just how much talent can be found right here at home.

The Long Run Takes the Stage

As the sun lowered and the crowd shifted toward the bandshell, the much-anticipated Eagles tribute band The Long Run from Colorado took the stage at 8:00 p.m. The group opened with a rock-style version of the Star-Spangled Banner, and the entire park seemed to pause. Conversations stopped, kids set down their volleyballs, and every heart turned toward the flag in a moment of pride and unity.

From there, it was nothing but music magic. The Long Run’s first set featured Eagles hits that had the crowd singing along word for word. Dancers quickly filled the space in front of the stage, creating a party-like atmosphere under the September sky. Their second set expanded into classic rock favorites, keeping the energy high and the smiles wide until the final notes rang out.

Food, Fun, and Family

Before and during the music, the park buzzed with activity. Local organizations and food trucks lined the streets offering everything from barbecue and steak skewers to phiilly steak sandwiches, tamales, cotton candy, and homemade desserts. Ice cream and shaved ice made the rounds, and for the first time this year, the popular Whiskey Wagon rolled into town, offering mixed drinks, wine, and beer at affordable prices.

Meanwhile, families and friends filled the open areas with volleyball and cornhole games, while others caught up with neighbors and enjoyed the beautiful weather that hovered in the low 70s.

Giving Back to the Community

Prior to the music kicking off, Larry and Terri Finley addressed the crowd, thanking the many sponsors who make Concert in the Park possible. A special photo opportunity took place with the Cheyenne County Kansas Community Foundation, which donated $2,000 toward the event. To keep the tradition going strong, a donation jar was also passed around, with generous contributions already helping to fund the 2026 Concert in the Park.

A Night to Remember

With perfect weather, incredible music, and the support of an entire community, this year’s Concert in the Park proved once again why it’s a highlight of the St. Francis calendar. As Larry Finley said in an interview on RockIt 102.5 just before the show, events like this prove there’s plenty happening in Northwest Kansas when people come together to celebrate.

Concert in the Park 2025 was more than just a show — it was a reminder of the power of music, community, and hometown pride.