Here’s a warm memory of last summer’s fun at this concert near outer East Portland …
Hundreds of folks enjoy this, the final Portland Parks & Recreation “Summer Free for All” concert of the season in Woodstock Park.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The late–summer weather proved ideal on Saturday evening, August 29, as neighbors gathered for a Portland Parks & Recreation “Summer Free for All” Concert in Woodstock Park – the final concert of the 2026 summer season.
Families and friends spread blankets and set up beach chairs across the lush lawn in the northeast corner of the park, waiting for “Bridgetown Get Down” to launch into their first tune. The Parks Department reported an audience of about 830 for the show.
Introducing the concert is WNA Board Member and MC, Thatch Moyle.
Woodstock Neighborhood Association Board Member, and Land Use Committee Chair, Thatch Moyle said the concert was both a celebration, and a tool for neighborhood outreach. “We’re excited to be here,” he told East Portland News.
Moyle pointed out that the neighborhood association had contributed to the cost of the concert, and used that investment to highlight its work. “The WNA contributed $1,000 to this, to spread the word about our presence and what we’re doing in the community,” Moyle explained.
Celebrating with friends at the concert, “Birthday Queen” Sharon Wynde (second from right) proclaims, “Indeed, my 21st birthday!”
“Our main goal is to create a sense of place, and for folks to understand what we’re doing – from events, to our clean-ups,” Moyle went on. “The WNA is providing ‘value added’ for the neighborhood!”
“Bridgetown Get Down” delivered a vibrant mix of Yacht Rock, R&B, high-energy pop, and Soul covers. By their second number, some concert-goers were on their feet, dancing – while others were simply relaxing and taking in the show.
Working their musical magic on stage, it’s Bridgetown Get Down at the last Portland Parks & Recreation “Summer Free for All” concert of the season.
For Moyle, the highlight remained the human connections. “Personally, it’s seeing friends and families that I’ve gotten to know over the last 20 plus years – as well as seeing all these other folks show up, and enjoy themselves on a beautiful night.”
Look for the Portland Parks’ “Summer Free for All” events to return next summer to parks in Inner Southeast Portland.
© 2026 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News™
