Dothan Civic Center Announces Free Big-Band Concert with The Moonlighters on June 18

On Thursday, June 18, the Dothan Civic Center invites the community to a free, family‑friendly big‑band night under the stars. At 7 p.m., the lively rhythms of The Moonlighters will fill Porter Park, a downtown green space at 126 N. Saint Andrews St. The event promises an evening of swing, jazz, and classic standards, and the organizers encourage everyone to dance along.

The Moonlighters are a local big‑band ensemble that has long been a staple at Dothan’s community venues. Their repertoire blends the high‑energy swing of the 1930s, the smooth lines of classic jazz, and the timeless appeal of popular standards that have delighted crowds for decades. With energetic arrangements and a nostalgic feel, the band has performed at Solomon Park, other city parks, and neighborhood festivals, turning each appearance into a celebration of sound and movement.

Porter Park, the chosen venue, is more than a green space; it is the heart of downtown Dothan. Situated on Saint Andrews Street, the park sits among civic buildings, restaurants, and residential neighborhoods, making it an accessible gathering spot for residents of all ages. Its open lawn and comfortable seating areas have hosted holiday celebrations, summer festivals, and seasonal concerts, and the setting is ideal for an outdoor big‑band experience that invites listeners to sit, sway, and soak in the music.

The Dothan Civic Center itself is a 3,100‑seat, multi‑purpose arena that hosts sporting events, concerts, and community programs. Its community outreach division has long coordinated free and low‑cost events to promote cultural engagement across the city. The “Big Band in the Park” series, part of the center’s ongoing effort to provide accessible entertainment, showcases a range of musical styles—from jazz nights and folk festivals to dance recitals. According to the center’s website, the series aims to bring live music to residents in a relaxed, outdoor setting.

Big‑band music has deep roots in the southeastern United States, and Dothan has a proud tradition of supporting local musicians. The Moonlighters’ participation in the Porter Park concert continues that legacy, offering residents a taste of classic swing and jazz in a setting that feels both historic and contemporary. The evening’s timing—late afternoon into the night—allows attendees to unwind after work or school, turning the concert into a communal respite from the summer heat.

Admission is free, and the event is explicitly family‑friendly. The Civic Center encourages residents to bring family and friends, providing an inexpensive option for summer entertainment that also fosters community connection. With no cost barrier and a lineup that appeals to a broad demographic, the concert is positioned as a highlight of the city’s summer calendar.

Looking ahead, the Dothan Civic Center’s schedule suggests that additional events will follow throughout the remainder of the summer. The success of the “Big Band in the Park” series is likely to inform future programming decisions, reinforcing the center’s commitment to cultural enrichment and community engagement.

The concert is confirmed for June 18, 7 p.m., at Porter Park, and the Dothan Civic Center welcomes all who wish to experience a night of music, dancing, and shared enjoyment in the heart of the city.