Parkston Wins Prestigious Levitt Music Grant: Amplifying Community Spirit Through Live Music
Parkston, a small community in South Dakota, recently won a prestigious Levitt Music grant competition, making it the top vote-getter in the nation. The Levitt Foundation announced that Parkston is one of the recipients of the grant, thanks to the support of the entire state and the efforts of town leaders. With a population of 1,500, Parkston hosts Amphithursdays every Thursday, where the park's amphitheater is filled with music. The Parkston Commercial Club raised funds to build the amphitheater and now sponsors the bands that perform.
The Levitt grant awarded to Parkston provides $28,000 per year for three years, allowing the community to expand its concert series. The 2026 lineup already includes local bands like Mogen's Heroes, Wakefield, and Surfing Safari, with three open dates for additional acts. The extra funding will enable Parkston to bring in more diverse and original artists to perform at the amphitheater, similar to the offerings at the Levitt in Sioux Falls.
To apply for the grant, the Parkston Commercial Club needed a non-profit corporate sponsor, which Avera St. Benedict stepped in to provide. The CEO of Avera St. Benedict, Lindsay Weber, expressed their commitment to supporting community growth and partnerships. AmphiThursdays have become a special tradition for Parkston, offering residents a chance to come together, socialize, and enjoy live music in a communal setting.
The success of Parkston's Amphithursdays is a testament to the community's dedication and support. Despite initial skepticism, the live music events have thrived, bringing joy and excitement to residents. Organizers are grateful to the thousands of South Dakotans who voted for Parkston in the grant competition. The future looks bright for Parkston's music scene, with the Levitt grant opening up opportunities for new and diverse acts to perform at the amphitheater.
In conclusion, Parkston's win in the Levitt Music grant competition has brought new opportunities for the community to enjoy live music and come together in a shared experience. The support from residents, town leaders, and corporate sponsors has paved the way for the growth of Parkston's concert series, showcasing local talent and attracting a wider audience. The success of AmphiThursdays highlights the community's spirit and determination to create a vibrant cultural scene in a small town setting.