I am sorry to hear of the abuse directed at the volunteers of the Fourth of July Committee after the announcement that the concerts were being moved from Independence Park.

The members of the Fourth Committee work tirelessly year round, and apparently they felt that they were making the best decision for all.

However, it seems like the concerts had become too large for Independence Park. As I have heard it said, “You can’t put 10 pounds of potatoes into a 5-pound bag.”

Despite the efforts of the police and other first-responders to ensure public safety, the site could not safely contain the size of the crowds that have been seen in recent years.

But is there an option to return the concerts to their traditional size and character?

Gradually, the concerts have focused more on larger groups. For example, many of the groups invited to play in 2024 were large, non-local “high energy” groups with large followings (up to 10,000 Facebook followers for one group). What fans wouldn’t want to attend a free concert for their favorite group in a beautiful location? It saves the price of a $30 or so ticket, plus one can bring unlimited amounts of your own liquor and save even more!

Bands that attract large numbers of non-local followers also result in more traffic and more parking difficulty. These fans do not live close enough to come down the bike path, and they don’t know local streets or local people. They can’t even park in their cousin’s driveway! They have to come by car and are understandably clueless as to where to park. On the nights when the carnival is busy, it’s even worse.

To sum, the personal attacks that have been directed at the committee are never warranted.

But encouraging larger and larger crowds at Independence Park was never sustainable.

Independence Park is a beautiful venue that many can access without a car and the resulting parking and safety concerns. In fact, one of Bristol’s many charms is that it is known as a walkable town.

Is it an option for some of the larger bands to appear on floats in the parade? Can there be fewer large tribute bands and more musical variety at the concerts?

Judith A. Byrnes
Bristol