Picnic with the Pops performs annual July 4th concert

HUNTINGTON -- Before seeing the "rockets' red glare" fireworks in Harris Riverfront Park in Huntington on Friday night, a number of locals made their traditional July 4th trip to the annual Picnic with the Pops concert.

Though cloudy weather forced picnickers into the Big Sandy Superstore Arena, families and friends met inside to watch the Huntington Symphony Orchestra and the Freeman Bluegrass Band perform in "Red, White & Bluegrass." The orchestra performed several classic patriotic songs and the bluegrass band followed suit with several bluegrass songs. Songs included "Turkey in the Straw," "Pizzin' and Grinnin'" and "On the Rebound."

Though he is unable to make many the orchestra's performances, Huntington resident Al Wilkins said he makes it a point to come to the July 4th concert every year. Wilkins said the annual concert gives the public an opportunity to meet with friends they haven't seen in a while and listen to beautiful music.

"Being able to listen to the music played by professional talent combined with the community aspects of the 4th of July, like seeing your friends and spending time with your family, makes it a great event," Wilkins said. "This is a nice way to celebrate a national holiday."

Ronald Hay, also of Huntington, said he makes the July 4th Picnic with the Pops concert a must for more than 20 years. Though this year's event was moved inside, Hay hopes that doesn't become the pattern for future July 4th celebrations.

"It's more fun outside because you can have the picnic outside, bring your own coolers and talk with your friends without interrupting the orchestra," Hay said. "It doesn't feel like a picnic inside."

Following the concert, picnickers headed to Harris Riverfront Park to watch the fireworks.