BIDDEFORD — Looking for a “swinging” way to welcome the first day of summer? Look no further than downtown Biddeford as the Heart of Biddeford kicks off its free series, Music in the Park on Wednesday.

Rites of Swing, which plays jazz and, of course, swing music will perform from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Shevenell Park.

Led by vocalist, guitarist and pianist, Tom Whitehead, the Rites of Swing ensemble also features Michael Arciero on guitar, Kris Day on upright bass and Don Whitney on drums. The band’s sound evokes the smooth, acoustic feeling of gypsy jazz, but with a distinctly American flavor of vocal standards from the 1920s, 30s and 40s, according to HOB Executive Director Delilah Poupore.

Music in the Park gets people to come together on summer nights, said Poupore. “It turns out Shevenell Park is one of the breezier spots around, so it stays cool while more than 100 people gather and listen to great music.”

Guests are encouraged to pick up dinner from a nearby business, and bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets. Music in the Park will take place rain or shine, with the rain location located at 40 Main St. in Biddeford’s Pepperell Center.

The Coteries, a Coloradan Americana band stopping in Biddeford on their national tour, will perform June  28. 

Music in the Park is held every Wednesday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in Shevenell Park, 147 Main St., Biddeford. The music is always free and family-friendly. Music in the Park brings a variety of genres to the community, with local and touring bands each week through Aug. 9.

For more information and band updates, check out the Heart of Biddeford on Facebook and Instagram.