GET READY TO ROCK, DANCE, AND SING ALONG AT THE 30TH ANNUAL MKAF CONCERTS IN THE VILLAGE SERIES

Smash Mouth, Iconic Tribute Acts, and Spring Nights Under the Stars Celebrate a Milestone Season at the Dugas Pavilion

DESTIN, FLA — Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) invites music lovers to celebrate a major milestone with the 30th annual Concerts in the Village series, returning to the scenic Dugas Pavilion from April 9 through June 11, 2026. This beloved Thursday-night tradition features 10 weeks of live music, showcasing premier national musicians and tribute bands performing everything from classic rock and disco to yacht rock, pop, and ’80s nostalgia.

The milestone season kicks off on April 9 with Smash Mouth, the chart-topping pop-rock band behind All Star, Walkin’ on the Sun, and Then the Morning Comes. With multi-platinum albums, Grammy nominations, and countless film and television appearances, Smash Mouth brings a high-energy, feel-good opening night worthy of the series’ 30th anniversary.

On April 16, Black Jacket Symphony delivers a note-for-note recreation of Van Halen’s legendary 1984 album, pairing musical precision with theatrical flair for an electrifying concert experience that has earned national acclaim.

Smooth sounds take the stage on April 23 with Yacht Rock Schooner, an eight-piece Atlanta-based tribute sailing through the mellow hits of the ’70s and ’80s by artists such as Kenny Loggins, Toto, and Michael McDonald—transforming the Pavilion into a high-energy “dance party on the high seas.”

Fleetwood Mac fans won’t want to miss Rumours ATL on April 30, an authentic tribute capturing the magic, harmonies, and mystique of one of rock’s most beloved bands with classics including Dreams, Go Your Own Way, and The Chain.

The horn-driven hits of Chicago take center stage on May 7 with Brass Transit, whose powerhouse musicianship and dynamic vocals bring timeless favorites like 25 or 6 to 4, Saturday in the Park, and You’re the Inspiration vividly to life.

On May 14, The Turnstiles celebrate the enduring catalog of Billy Joel, performing beloved songs from Piano Man to Uptown Girl with spot-on arrangements that honor the Piano Man’s legendary career.

Disco fever arrives on May 21 with Boogie Wonder Band, one of the world’s top disco and funk tribute acts. With colorful costumes, nonstop energy, and hits from Earth, Wind & Fire, Kool & the Gang, and more, the evening promises a full-on dance party under the stars.

The ’80s roar back on May 28 when The Molly Ringwalds return with their signature blend of music, fashion, and fun, delivering what fans call the ultimate ’80s experience.

On June 4, The Return: A Beatles Tribute transports audiences to the height of Beatlemania with uncanny recreations of the sound, style, and spirit of The Beatles, including music from the iconic Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album from 1967.

The season closes on a laid-back, island-inspired note on June 11 with A1A: The Official Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band, the only tribute officially licensed by Buffett himself. Parrotheads can expect a night of tropical anthems, beach vibes, and Margaritaville magic.

Gates open at 6 p.m., with concerts beginning at 7 p.m. General admission is lawn seating. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or low-back chairs and enjoy dinner al fresco from local food trucks while gathering with family, friends, and colleagues for this must-not-miss spring tradition.

Tickets are $40 per person (including ticketing fee). MKAF members enjoy early entry and attend concerts free. Learn more about MKAF membership at MKAF.org.

Proceeds benefit ArtsReach, MKAF’s community education initiative supporting local K–12 students, individuals with disabilities, and military service members and veterans throughout Northwest Florida and the Southeast.

For tickets, membership information, or sponsorship opportunities, visit MKAF.org or call (850) 650-2226.

ABOUT MATTIE KELLY ARTS FOUNDATION Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) is a non-profit arts organization with a mission to champion arts and culture for all. Since its inception in 1995, MKAF has inspired more than 420,000 children in more than 100 schools and partner agencies. Through its community education initiative, ArtsReach, dynamic programming serves K–12 students, people with special needs, and the military community along the Emerald Coast. As a presenting organization, MKAF’s Concerts in the Village series showcases the Southeast United States’ most vibrant performing artists and bands to more than 15,000 patrons each spring. More than 100 artists convene in Destin each fall for the Festival of the Arts—one of the preeminent arts festivals along the Gulf Coast. MKAF has long partnered with multiple regional non-profits and school districts in the communities it serves to ensure access to the arts for all.

GET READY TO ROCK, DANCE, AND SING ALONG AT THE 30TH ANNUAL MKAF CONCERTS IN THE VILLAGE SERIES

| Mattie Kelly, matty kelly |
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