A long-standing Howard County tradition will continue on Saturday, July 25. The 63rd Annual Roanoke Band Concert begins at 7 p.m. from the historic Roanoke Bandstand. While listening to various band pieces that will set toes tapping, attendees will enjoy ice cream, homemade cake, and bottled water, which will be available for sale beginning at 6 p.m. In recent years, the concert has been canceled due to heat. Keep an eye on the newspaper’s website and Facebook page for updates.

There is no charge for the concert. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. All proceeds from the ice cream and cake sales go to the upkeep of the 119-year-old bandstand, which just received new steps.

The concert is free, and donations are welcomed. Jordan Perry will conduct the Moberly Community Band. All area musicians are welcome to join in.

The historic bandstand was constructed in 1906, where the Roanoke Military Town Band played weekly concerts for many years. As life changed, especially after World War II, the band was no longer in existence.

In 1961 the Roanoke Band Association was formed to raise funds to preserve the landmark, with an annual concert played every fourth Saturday in July.

The bandstand is located in Roanoke near the Howard-Randolph county line, at the intersection of Highways 3 and 129.