Chamber concerts a big deal in small community

It looks simple enough. Musicians perform and food and beverages are sold. Vendors display their wares for sale. A cornhole tournament is held and activities for children abound.

It’s anything but easy, and the Belgium Area Chamber of Commerce pulls off hosting multiple Summer Nights Live events on Fridays at Community Park during the year’s warmest months.

“These events don’t happen without a tremendous amount of planning behind the scenes. Coordinating bands and entertainment, securing vendors, organizing the Kids Zone, working with sponsors, arranging logistics and ensuring there is something for every age group takes months of preparation,” Belgium Chamber President Chanel Schmidt said.

“We are fortunate to have incredible community support, including local sponsors who help fund entertainment and activities, as well as individuals like Roy Bichler, who generously donates and delivers the bounce house that is always a favorite attraction for families. We are incredibly grateful to our volunteers, sponsors, community partners and everyone who attends. Their support is what keeps these events growing year after year.”

The effort kicked up a notch this year when the Chamber decided to hold more Summer Nights Live events. In addition to last Friday, festivities will be held June 19, July 10 and 17 and Aug. 14.

“Summer schedules are busy, and we wanted to create additional opportunities for residents, visitors and families to gather throughout the season. By adding more nights, we can involve more organizations, showcase more local businesses, provide additional fundraising opportunities and create even more reasons for people to spend time in our community,” Schmidt said.

The initiative is more than a fun night out. Nonprofit organizations such as the Melvin Wester American Legion Post 412, Belgium Fire Department and Belgium Lions volunteer to work the event and raise money for their causes.

“One of the things that makes Summer Nights Live so special is that it is truly a community effort,” Schmidt said. “While the Belgium Area Chamber helps coordinate the event, it takes countless volunteers, ambassadors, sponsors, community organizations and local businesses working together to make each evening successful.”

Some events take on different themes. Restaurant night allows for area eateries to sell their specialties, and kickball and softball games have been held.

Summer Nights Live got a boost a few years ago when the Village of Belgium replaced the park’s shelter at the pavilion and added a concession stand and bathrooms.

“The setting itself is a huge part of what makes Summer Nights Live successful. Belgium Community Park has become one of the community’s greatest assets,” Schmidt said. “With the recent improvements to the pavilion and park facilities, it provides a beautiful gathering place where families can enjoy live music, great food, children’s activities and fellowship with neighbors and friends.”

The event was born out of a community brainstorming session in spring 2018. About 20 businesspeople, officials and residents participated in the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp.’s Connect Communities program designed to revitalize downtowns and historic districts across the state.

That summer, the first Summer Nights Live was held. It has only grown since, even surviving the pandemic.

“What began from a Wisconsin Main Street initiative and community conversations several years ago has grown into something that truly reflects the spirit of Belgium, a community that values connection, volunteerism, local businesses and family-friendly experiences,” Schmidt said.

“Summer Nights Live is much more than a concert series. It’s a celebration of community. Every event represents neighbors helping neighbors, local organizations working together, businesses supporting one another and families creating memories. That’s what makes Belgium such a special place to call home.”