The first La Grange Country Music Jam made a vibrant debut at Gordon Park on August 10, attracting a steadily growing audience. The event, which was free to attend and organized by the Park District of La Grange, kicked off with a lively performance by local band Trailer Park Twisters.
Starting at 2 p.m., Trailer Park Twisters played a nearly two-hour set featuring classic country hits from legends like Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, and Waylon Jennings. “We are honored to open the first-ever Country Jam, and it was awesome,” said Connie Cipher, the band’s vocalist and rhythm guitarist. “Country has a special place in my heart, so I’m glad to be here.”
The band’s set included favorites such as Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” Waylon Jennings’ “Good Hearted Woman,” and John Mellencamp’s “Ain’t That America.” Early attendees, including Brookfield resident Kathleen Cecconi, expressed their appreciation. “I just saw Vince Gill in Nashville,” Cecconi said, referring to her recent experience at the Ryman Auditorium. “I love good music, and Nashville was just out of this world.”
Local resident Peter, who attended from La Grange Park, compared the event favorably to the now-discontinued Endless SummerFest. “This is kind of a pared-down version of that,” he said, adding that he enjoys a mix of country, rock, and blues music.
The crowd, which started at around 100 for Trailer Park Twisters, swelled to at least 1,000 by the time headliner Wildfire took the stage at 5:30 p.m. Wildfire delivered a range of country classics, including Alabama’s “Play Me Some Mountain Music” and Elle King’s “Ex’s and Oh’s.” The lively atmosphere persisted until the event concluded at 8 p.m., with music enthusiasts enjoying a day of diverse country performances.
