Gazebo Nights — hot summer, hot music

On Thursday evening, July 9, 2026, the Gazebo Nights free summer concert series kicked off its 14th season at Normal Park.
Despite high temperatures, a big crowd turned out to soak up the hot sun and some live music.
Evan Garski opened the show, and The Cougars followed with an energetic performance. The six-piece rock band from Green Bay with three female lead vocalists had some attendees singing along with recognizable hits from the last several decades.
Luther Memorial Church had concessions available on-site, the Masons were selling popcorn, and many of the kids took advantage of the playground as they enjoyed the music.
Merrill’s next Gazebo Nights concert is set for this evening, July 16. Tonight’s opening act is Mark Robl, and he will begin playing at 5 p.m. The Dweebs will headline the show, beginning their high-energy, interactive performance full of stage antics at 6 p.m. The Dweebs is a family party band known for performing Top 40 hits from the ‘60s through today.

Thorogood, a division of Weinbrenner Shoe Company, is the season’s main sponsor, joined by this week’s weekly sponsors Brickners Park City, Merrill Lions Club, Erickson Law Office and Nicolet Bank.
The Lions Club will be offering concessions in the permanent stand this evening, and both the Merrill Ice Reflections and the Aspirus Merrill Auxiliary will have baked goods and sweet treats for sale. The Masons will be selling popcorn, and the Lincoln County Humane Society will be the beneficiary of the evening’s 50/50 raffle.
Mark your calendar for all the concerts in this 2026 summer Gazebo Nights series so you don’t miss any of the entertainment.
• July 16 — The Dweebs
• July 23 — Jay Stulo Band
• July 30 — Rising Star
• Aug. 6 — No concert - enjoy the music at the Lincoln County Fair
• Aug. 13 — Road Trip
• Aug. 20 — Blindside
• Aug. 27 — Red Higgins
Donations to the account at Crossbridge Community Bank are still being accepted and will help fund future seasons to ensure Gazebo Nights can continue each summer.