Week four of popular summer music series is first of two big concerts this week with Hometown Radio Show returning on Friday night
After three weeks of packed crowds and diverse musical styles, Historic Folsom’s Twilight Concert Series continues Thursday night with a performance rooted in the landscapes, stories and spirit of California’s Gold Country.
Taking the stage June 25 at the Zittel Family Amphitheater is Wayward Buffalo, a roots-driven band whose music blends Americana, country and folk influences into a sound shaped by the foothill communities and winding backroads of Northern California. Known for honest songwriting, worn-in harmonies and storytelling that reflects everyday life, the group offers a performance that feels equally at home in a small-town gathering, an open-air festival or beneath the summer skies of Historic Folsom.
Presented by Bernau Development Corporation in partnership with the Folsom Historic District Association, the Twilight Concert Series continues its 13-week summer run with free Thursday evening concerts through Aug. 27. The series has once again drawn strong attendance throughout its opening weeks, bringing residents and visitors to Historic Folsom for evenings of live music, dining, shopping and community gathering.
While previous performances this season have featured classic rock tributes and high-energy dance music, Wayward Buffalo brings a different style to the stage. The band’s music is rooted in storytelling and shaped by themes familiar to many who call the foothills and rural communities of Northern California home. Their songs speak to lessons learned, mistakes made, relationships that matter and the decision to keep moving forward despite life’s inevitable challenges.
Drawing inspiration from the landscapes and communities of Gold Country, the band’s sound reflects dusty roads, small towns and the people who work hard, persevere and find meaning in family, friendship and connection. Their music combines elements of traditional Americana, country and folk while maintaining a distinctly California character.
At the heart of Wayward Buffalo is a belief that hard work and music belong together. The band embraces stories of people who put in long days, carry calloused hands and still make room for creativity, community and the simple joys found at the end of a hard-earned day. Their performances are less about spectacle and more about creating a shared experience through music and storytelling.
That approach has helped the band build a loyal following throughout the region. Audiences often describe Wayward Buffalo’s performances as authentic and relatable, with songs that resonate because they reflect real experiences and emotions. Whether performing original material or sharing stories between songs, the group creates an atmosphere that encourages listeners to slow down, listen closely and appreciate the moments that often get lost in the rush of everyday life.
The band’s appearance also marks another chapter in what has become one of Historic Folsom’s most cherished summer traditions. Each Thursday evening, the Historic District comes alive as visitors arrive to enjoy local restaurants, outdoor patios, specialty shops and live music in one of the city’s most recognizable gathering spaces.
Located in the heart of Historic Folsom, the Zittel Family Amphitheater has become the centerpiece of the weekly series, providing a unique setting where music, community and summer evenings come together. Concertgoers are encouraged to arrive early and enjoy the Historic District before the music begins at 7:30 p.m.
Following Wayward Buffalo’s performance, the Twilight Concert Series continues July 2 with Steelin’ Dan, followed by Lyric Michelle Band on July 9, Hipper than Hip on July 16, AKAlive Band on July 23 and LVVS on July 30. The August lineup features Dunsbar Road, Wayside Band and Daze on the Green before the season concludes Aug. 27 with Adam Aldama & The Aces.
Thursday’s free concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Zittel Family Amphitheater in Historic Folsom. For more information on the Twilight Concert Series and other Historic Folsom events, visit www.historicfolsom.org.
Hometown Country Radio Show returns Friday night
The music continues Friday night at the Zittel Family Amphitheater as the popular Hometown Country Radio Show returns to Historic Folsom for a one-night celebration of country music’s rich history and enduring influence.
Running from 7 to 10 p.m., the annual event blends the feel of a classic live radio broadcast with the energy of a modern concert. Presented by the Folsom Historic District Association, the production features a rotating lineup of performers rather than a single headliner, taking audiences on a musical journey through the many eras and styles that have shaped country music.
This year’s lineup includes internationally acclaimed violinist Carlos Reyes along with Aaron Gayden, Billy J. Walsh, Cynthia Renee, DJ ELO, Geoffrey Miller, Ian Cornell, Ivan Johnson, Joe Orlando, Melissa Corona, Michael Gregory, the Malekos Duo, Flying Eugene Flowers, Ian Worley, Jerry Verseput, Kevin Jachetta, Mark Wheeler and Michael Curtis Jr.
Backing many of the performances will be The Sky Kings, a group of veteran musicians known throughout Northern California for their versatility and ability to support artists from a wide range of musical backgrounds.
Throughout the evening, audiences can expect everything from the pioneering sounds of Hank Williams, Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash to contemporary country favorites and country-rock classics. Organizers say the show also celebrates the influence of Bakersfield country legends and Southern California country-rock pioneers who helped shape the genre through the decades.
Blue Iron Foundations and Shoring serves as the stage sponsor for Friday night’s production, while Folsom Times is proud to serve as a media and advertising sponsor of the event.
The Hometown Country Radio Show begins at 7 p.m. Friday at the Zittel Family Amphitheater, located at 200 Wool Street in Historic Folsom. Admission is free and attendees are encouraged to arrive early for the best seating. Low-back lawn chairs and blankets are recommended.
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