The Downtown Development Authority kicks off its 10-week concert series from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Thursday at the First National Bank & Trust Downtown Stage on Iron Mountain Street, across from the Dickinson County Library.

“We are looking forward to another great season with some returning favorites along with some new groups,” DDA Event Coordinator Katherine Mentel said. “Come and enjoy a midweek break with us at the stage to hear some great music and enjoy good food, while gathering with friends and family.”

Local band 141 North will open the free outdoor summer concerts series Thursday.

“We are excited to welcome one of the area’s popular groups first to the downtown stage,” she said.

Mike Caruso, right, will return as the 2026 Out to Lunch emcee. Caruso is shown with Tim McCauley, Downtown Development Authority program coordinator, at last year’s event. (Contributed photo)

The variety country music band features Matt Harvath on lead vocals and acoustic guitar, Gerry Pirkola on vocals and guitar, Robert “Hoss” Hostettler on guitar and vocals, Brian Whitens on bass and vocals, and Brent Hostettler on drums.

Back from last year is The Make-Believe Spurs of Marquette, offering a variety of alternative-folk and Americana music June 18.

On June 25, the five-piece group of the Marquette area Groove Candy will play a mix of funky R&B, soul, dance and rock covers music.

“This is the first time at OTL and the community can also catch them at Music in the Park in Norway on June 18,” Mentel said. “We can’t wait for them to bring their high-energy show to the downtown.”

Mark Young & The Happy Enchiladas returns for a midsummer show on July 2, with a mix of folk, rock, classic oldies, heavy metal and Woodstockian music.

The Downtown Development Authority recently received a Spark Good grant from Walmart to support the Out to Lunch program. From left are DDA Event Coordinator Katherine Mentel; Walmart representatives Brittany Rose, Ty Counter and David Deyo; and DDA Program Coordinator Tim McCauley. (Contributed photo)

“They can get the crowd dancing and singing along to the classics,” she said.

The Kind of Blues Band will deliver all the classics, from B.B. King to Stevie Ray Vaughan, on July 9.

“This group of talented U.P.-based musicians who are school educators always brings an energetic performance to the stage,” Mentel said.

The Kaleidoscope Jos will perform a mix of soulful folk music and originals July 16.

“They are semi-new, as Carolyn Jo has joined us in the past with her powerful vocals. Now she comes to us as a female duo with Joni Clare,” she said.

OTL welcomes Datura on July 23. The guitar, violin and cello trio, featuring Thomas Niebrydowski of the local area, offers classical Celtic, Eastern European and other selections from around the world.

On July 30, Safe Sax featuring Michael Prusinsky of Port Washington, Wis., on sax and vocals will take the stage, offering a diverse range of musical genres.

Bringing all the favorite classics Aug. 6 will be the five-piece band Victorious, featuring Vicky Bourassa of the Amberg, Wis., area.

Once again closing out the 2026 live summer music program will be the DayDreamers of the Marquette area Aug. 13.

Mentel noted they are always a hit with the audience. “They play a great list of music that gets everyone moving — you won’t want to miss this show,” she added.

The DDA will again have rotating food vendors each week for the OTL program.

Taking part will be Crispigna’s Italian Market, Sliced & Stacked, Sugar Jets, Millie’s Market, LaCatrina and Curious Pig.

This year, they have added two beverage vendors — 906 Pop Culture and Billies — offering a large variety of dirty sodas, bobas, lemonades, and more.

“Each week they will alternate to bring those tasty drinks for everyone to enjoy during hot summer day,” she said. “It’s also a fun addition for the kids.”

Concert-goers also are encouraged to patronize of the downtown restaurants. “We have several amazing places to stop in for take out,” she said.

New this year, attendees that are 21 and older can take advantage of the “social district” in the downtown. Individuals who purchase beverages from a participating Social District establishment are allowed within the commons area of the Social District.

A complete list of businesses and rules are listed on the Downtown Iron Mountain website, https://downtownironmountain.com/.

She noted that Mike Caruso will return for another year as the Out to Lunch emcee.

The DDA will conduct a weekly raffle as well, with tickets available at the event.

The Dickinson County Library will again partner two offer special activities near the stage for the summer program.

The DDA thanks the First National Bank & Trust for being the stage sponsor this year.

But she added, “We currently do not have an official 2026 season signature sponsor for Out to Lunch. It’s a great opportunity for local businesses interact directly with the community.”

Anyone interested can contact Mentel at the DDA office.

The DDA recently received a Spark Good grant from Walmart. “We are very grateful for their help to bring the free program to our community members,” Mentel said.

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating and an umbrella for shade on hot days.

Iron Mountain Street in front of the stage will be closed to traffic each week during the concert.

In case of inclement weather, concerts will take place in the Braumart, 106 E. B St. in Iron Mountain except the week of the Missoula Children’s Theater performance, when the event will be moved to the main enclosed pavilion at City Park in Iron Mountain if needed.

“It’s going to be an exciting year, we are looking forward to getting starting this Thursday,” she said. “We hope everyone comes down to spend an afternoon with us.”

More information on OTL, weekly vendors or sponsorship opportunities go to downtownironmountain.com.

This year’s lineup includes:

June 11 — 141 North, sponsored by Mouw & Celello, P.C.;

June 18 — The Make-Believe Spurs, sponsored by Iron Mountain Foundry;

June 25 — Groove Candy, sponsored by Linnea & Kristine;

July 2 — Mark Young & The Happy Enchiladas, sponsored by First National Bank & Trust;

July 16 — The Kaleidoscope Jos, sponsored by Jim’s Music;

July 23 — Datura, sponsored by Erickson Jewelers;

July 30 — Safe Sax, sponsored by Kenneth James Salon;

Aug. 6 — Victorious featuring Victoria Zippier, sponsored by First Bank; and

Aug. 6 — DayDreamers, sponsored by Iron Mountain Area Tourism.