Patriotic Pops Concert to return to ONU

Jacob Espinosa, The Lima News, Ohio
·2 min read

Jun. 27—ADA — Ohio Northern University's Patriotic Pops Concert will return at 7 p.m. Sunday on the lawn in front of the school's McIntosh Center.

ONU Music instructor Kirsten Osbun-Manley said that the event will be a much-needed opportunity for the community to come together to celebrate America's founding.

"We couldn't do this without the generosity of area businesses and organizations," she said. "It's a wonderful way to celebrate our nation's birthday and to come together as a community for a family-friendly event."

Over 1,600 Ada residents attended the event last year, bringing lawnchairs and picnic baskets to hear the Lima Symphony Orchestra's renditions of patriotic music. The University is also offering pre-ordered box meals for purchase if ordered in advance of 5 p.m. Thursday. The cost for the lunches is $15 each.

Osbun-Manley said that the event will showcase the best part of being in a community.

"Patriotic people with flags gathered together as a community enjoying a beautiful evening and a fabulous orchestra for free is what it's all about," she said. "Ohio Northern is wonderful because we provide the venue and even if we have to go into the Kinghorn Center due to inclement weather, it's fine. But it's more magical when you're outside. It's Americana at its best and, frankly, I think we need more of that."

The event brings people, not just from Ada but also from Lima, Findlay and Wapakoneta to enjoy the patriotic celebration.

"It's a wonderful time for those who deeply love the United States," Osbun-Manley said. "It's a wonderful way to come together at a great event."

This year's Patriotic Pops Concert will be the eighth annual rendition of the event.

To order a box meal, call 419-772-2500 or email innonu@onu.edu.

Gates will open for the event at 6 p.m. There is no ticket required as the event is free. For more information, visit the Lima Symphony Orchestra's website at limasymphony.com.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Lima Symphony Orchestra Patriotic Pops concert

WHEN: 7 p.m. Sunday

WHERE: McIntosh Center lawn, Ohio Northern University, Ada.

The event is free to attend and premade box lunches are available for advance purchase for $15.

Reach Jacob Espinosa at 567-242-0399.