La Cygne 'Blast' a laidback evening of music, fireworks

The fireworks show at Saturday's Blast in the Park in La Cygne provided a lively finale to an evening of listening to music, hitting the food trucks, browsing the vendors, and visiting with friends. (Photos by Roger Sims/Linn County Journal)

The heat of a 90-plus-degree day still lingered as La Cygne's "Blast in the Park" event got under way on Saturday, July 6. But as the live music revved up, the shadows got longer and more people flowed into the La Cygne Community Park, the crowd was able to enjoy a pleasant evening.

There was plenty to do with a couple of bounce houses for the kids, food trucks for the hungry and thirsty, and about two dozen vendors selling everything from pet items to photography services to wine coolers and cookies.

Kayla Milliron, right, and Bailee Fleming help a customer at the Kayla's Cookie Co. booth.

Frendly Warning, a area band that frequently plays at Lucy's Bar and Grill on the eastside of the city, opened with an hourlong acoustic set at 6 p.m. before heading to Lucy's for their other gig.

Cole Fired took the stage shortly thereafter with a set list that included rock, pop and country favorites. With Cole Holler on guitar, William Swisher on drums, and James Beltz on bass guitar, the band played until dusk.

Cole Fired band members include, from left, drummer William Swisher, Cole Holler on guitar and vocals, and sitting in on bass, James Beltz.

Four-year-old Ainslee holds the hand of her sister Arlee, 2, as they slide out of one of the bounce houses.

La Cygne Fire Department Assistant Captain Thomas Capp help 3-year-old Bryson hold a hose steady on target while his 4-year-old Shawn awaits his turn.

Groups of friends and families set up lawn chairs in groups around the parking area, visiting with each other as they waited for the fireworks display.