We started with the band America in 2001 and ever since, WMGK has been rockin’ into the 4th of July holiday with the best in classic rock. Over the years, we’ve had Peter Frampton, Cheap Trick, Paul Rodgers of Bad Company, Heart, Pat Benatar and so many others to help us celebrate. This year, the studded lineup includes Don Felder, Styx and Foreigner.
Thursday, we’ll get the party started along the riverfront. The music begins at the pre-party held at Wiggins Park from 2 p.m.-5 p.m. with MGK DJ Andre Gardner’s live broadcast and live music from former MGK Houseband The Sofa Kings. This part of the day is a free, family friendly event and a great way to get going before the main festivities begin next door at The Susquehanna Bank Center.
Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with The Cherokee High School choir (from Marlton, N.J.) will greet the throngs with classic rock songs. They got the most votes in an MGK contest and will get to provide the backing vocals on stage with Foreigner during their song “I Want to Know What Love Is.”
Current MGK Houseband Musician Impossible hits the stage at 6 p.m. and you don’t want to miss them. They are followed by ex-Eagles guitarist Don Felder at 7 p.m. I’ve seen his setlist and it is driven by your favorite Eagles songs and some stellar guitar playing. Styx will take the stage at 8:15 p.m.and will do an hour plus set and then it’s Foreigner topping the bill at 10 p.m. We’ve had both Styx and Foreigner at previous MGK Let Freedom Rock Fests and I can assure you that it’s a high energy experience through and through.
Other highlights include the group Pledge of Allegiance led onstage by MGK Morning Man, John DeBella with troops in uniform participating as well as the National Anthem sung by Samantha Johnson from the USAF.
Schedule of events
Musician Impossible 6 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
Don Felder 7 p.m.-7:45 p.m.
Styx 8:15 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Foreigner 10 p.m.-11:15 p.m.
Tickets: $20 for lawn (plus fees) (kids under 9 are free on lawn)
$49.50-$109 (plus fees for reserved seats)
Purchase at livenation.com
A portion of ticket sales will benefit local veterans.
