Monday evenings in Aiken have reclaimed their melodic centerpiece as the city welcomes back the Hopelands Concert Series in Aiken. The annual tradition, which transforms the scenic backdrop of Hopelands Gardens into an open-air venue, has officially launched its 52nd season, promising a blend of local talent and regional favorites throughout the spring and early summer.
The 2026 season began with an energetic performance on April 6 by Whiskey Business, an Aiken-based rock cover band. The event drew an estimated crowd of 400 attendees, setting a high bar for the remainder of the series. For many residents, the return of the series marks a shift in the local cultural calendar, offering a consistent, family-friendly gathering point in one of the city’s most cherished green spaces.
Rebekah Mayfield, the tourism coordinator for Aiken’s municipal government, noted that this year’s kickoff felt particularly triumphant. She contrasted the outdoor success of the 2026 opener with the 2025 start, which was forced indoors due to inclement weather. “The band had everyone pretty lively. Some people were even dancing,” Mayfield said.
A High-Energy Start to the Season
The selection of Whiskey Business as the season opener was the result of a multi-year trajectory. The group first caught the attention of Hopelands organizers during a 2024 competition held at The Alley in downtown Aiken. After winning that “battle of the bands,” the group provided a demo and performed a live set in 2025, which solidified their place as the ideal choice to lead the 2026 series.
The band’s setlist reflected a broad appeal, bridging the gap between the soul-drenched sounds of the 1960s—highlighted by Wilson Pickett’s “Mustang Sally”—and the modern grit of the 2010s, including “Hold On” by Alabama Shakes. This versatility is driven by a six-member lineup with a diverse array of talents. Four members handle vocals: Tom Heath, Mike Gerard (who also manages percussion), Jason Johnston (guitarist), and the band’s newest addition, Kristen Anson.
The foundation of the group’s sound is rounded out by founder Julian Lockwood on bass and Dave Sherburne, who provides the melodic depth on keyboards and saxophone. Their ability to engage a large crowd in a public garden setting underscores the series’ goal of blending high-quality performance with community accessibility.
Community Support and Sponsorship
The sustainability of the Hopelands Concert Series relies heavily on local partnerships. The season opener was made possible through the sponsorship of Vicki Crossland and Brandi Cook, a mother-daughter real estate team with Meybohm Real Estate.
Beyond the initial kickoff, a broad coalition of organizations has stepped forward to bankroll the series. These include Security Federal Bank, Cumberland Village, Breezeline, and the Friends of Hopelands and Rye Patch. Other contributing sponsors include The Willcox, Women of Woodside, Overflow, Aiken Performing Arts, and Hearing Associates of South Carolina, reflecting a wide-reaching investment in Aiken’s local arts scene.
The 2026 Performance Schedule
The upcoming calendar showcases a wide variety of genres, ranging from classical brass and ballet to contemporary rock and jazz. This diversity ensures that the series appeals to a broad demographic of visitors, from lifelong residents to tourists exploring the gardens.
| Date | Performer |
|---|---|
| April 13 | Lady and The Gents |
| April 20 | Savannah Sunday |
| April 27 | Aiken Concert Band |
| May 4 | Heart and Soul |
| May 11 | The SureFires |
| May 18 | Savannah River Winds |
| May 25 | Aiken Civic Ballet |
| June 1 | Aiken Brass Band |
| June 8 | Chris Ndeti and Mama Says |
| June 15 | The Experiment and the I-20 Horns |
| June 22 | Shiloh Woods and Chris Reed |
| June 29 | Parris Island Marine Band |
Notably, the June 22 date will introduce newcomers Shiloh Woods and Chris Reed to the Hopelands stage, adding fresh energy to the latter half of the season. The series will conclude on June 29 with a performance by the Parris Island Marine Band.
Visitor Guidelines and Logistics
To maintain the atmosphere of the gardens, the city encourages a “picnic style” experience. Attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets. Well-behaved pets are also permitted to join the festivities. However, the municipal government maintains a strict policy that alcohol is not permitted on the grounds during the performances.
Given the outdoor nature of the events, weather can occasionally impact the schedule. For real-time updates and decisions regarding weather-related cancellations or venue changes, the city has provided a dedicated information line at 803-643-4661.
As the series continues, the focus remains on fostering a sense of community through the arts. The blend of local rock, civic bands, and professional ensembles creates a cultural tapestry that defines the spring season in Aiken.
The next scheduled performance will seize place on April 13, featuring Lady and The Gents. Residents and visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot on the lawn.
Do you have a favorite local act you’d like to spot at Hopelands Gardens? Share your thoughts in the comments or share this article with your fellow music lovers in Aiken.
