The Onset concerts are back, louder than ever and at a new venue this year: the Onset VFW.

Each year, the Onset Bay Association hosts the “Summer of Love” concert series, which brings a variety of local bands to perform outdoor concerts every Wednesday night.

In the past, the series has been held at the Onset Bandshell, which is currently under construction. 

That meant the association had to find a new venue for the shows. The VFW has served as a rain location in past seasons, so it was the obvious — and only — choice for this season.

“It was either this or nothing,” said Kat Jones, the executive director of the Onset Bay Association. 

On July 7, the crowd seemed eager for the show — a performance by Thee Midnight Society — to start. 

“This has become a real beloved event,” Jones said. 

Jones conveyed her love of these concerts and how important they are to her. 

“Music is a real powerful messenger and now more than ever people need live music back in our lives,” she said.  

The concerts are open to people of all ages. 

“We have every walk of life that's able to come and enjoy,” Jones said. “This is a safe environment, where everyone is welcome.” 

Jones expressed her gratitude towards her volunteers.

“I couldn’t do this without them,” she said.

In addition to the music, the events feature different vendors, raffles and food. The VFW operates a cash bar during the concerts and serves a $10 meal until the food is sold out. Bar food is sold until about 8:30 p.m.

Concerts are held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. each Wednesday night at the VFW, located at 4 Gibbs Ball Park Rd. 

For more information on the concerts, head to the Onset Bay Association’s website at

https://www.onsetbay.org/event/13th-annual-onset-summer-love-concert-series/