Photo: Contributed

Penticton duo Aidan and Mandy will open the 'Rock the Sun' concert series at Gyro Park on Friday.

Rock the Sun, a free, family-friendly concert series at Penticton's Gyro Park, is returning this summer beginning on Friday.

Folk country pair Aidan Mayes and Mandy Cole, who go by Aidan and Mandy, will be on the bandshell stage from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Their performance will be the first of seven shows between Friday and August 31.

"This event screams summertime in Penticton,” Mayes said. "What could be better than enjoying a perfect summer evening, listening to free live music with crowds of supporters — local and visitors alike."

The concert series is hosted by the Downtown Penticton Association, who note the music genres will include country, rock, pop and others.

"Folks are invited to simply head downtown with their lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the fabulous performances and music," the DPA said in a news release.

"Also for convenience, food trucks will be on site making it easy to buy something to eat or drink throughout the evening."

The DPA is also hosting Live at Lunch at Nanaimo Square, with music performances from noon to 1 p.m. every weekday during the summer.

A full list of Rock the Sun performers this summer can be found here.