Asked to summarize the Live & Uncorked experience for someone who’s never been, Abby Oldenburg’s six-word response seems destined for a T-shirt.

“Good vibes all the way around.”

The Fox Valley Park District’s popular summer concert series, Live & Uncorked returns Thursday to Blackberry Farm for its 12th season of on-stage performances that start with sunsets and finish under the stars.

“Live & Uncorked is like a mini Ravinia – a little more intimate with smaller crowds,” says Oldenburg, Blackberry’s facility manager. “But a great social gathering time.”

Beginning June 5 through July 24, Live & Uncorked plays every Thursday at the Performance Pavilion and picnic area of Blackberry, located at 100 S. Barnes Road on Aurora’s far west side. Gates open at 6:15 p.m. and shows run from 7-9. Tickets cost $10 online and $12 the day of concerts; a Season Pass for all eight can be purchased for $64.

“We’ve really streamlined our entry process, so it’s an easy, flowing wait line to get guests inside,” Oldenburg says. “Everyone stands in the same line, but if you purchased your ticket in advance, we’ll scan it on your phone and get you right into the park.”

Guests must be 21 years of age and provide identification for entry into “Live,” which is a BYOB event where local music fans often load wagons with chairs, blankets, coolers and snacks to tug to their favorite spots on the lawn. Blackberry’s Summer Kitchen will also be open for grab-n-go items like hotdogs, cheeseburgers, fries, ice cream treats and freshly squeezed lemonade.

“People come out and host birthday parties, company picnics, and other celebrations with big groups,” Oldenburg said. “It’s a cozy set-up, but with plenty of space to spread out. And the music is really, really good.”

Last year, a total of 4,868 fans enjoyed seven concerts before Mother Nature wiped out the finale.

Here’s a look at this summer’s lineup in order of appearance:

  • Bon Journeyed (the ultimate Bon Jovi/Journey experience) – June 5
  • Disco Circus (next level disco/funk 70s tribute) – June 12
  • 90s Pop Nation (biggest pop hits, one-hit wonders and sing-alongs from the 90s) – June 19
  • Semple (70s rock to modern pop) – June 26
  • Billy Elton (legendary songs of Billy Joel and Elton John) – July 3
  • Breakfast Club (rock-dance 80s tribute) – July 10
  • Brady Lee (bringing a sonic sound to country music) – July 17
  • Dancing Queen (a salute to all things ABBA) – July 24

“We focus on creating a lineup that has all sorts of different genres,” says Oldenburg, who begins building the playlist and securing bands the previous December. “We’re always listening to feedback and ‘reading the room’ at shows to help determine what’s working. Last year, for example, we saw our audiences trend a bit younger with people coming out to take advantage of that Thursday night out, so we sprinkled in some more 90s pop.

“It’s an awesome mix of music overall, and just a fun, festive environment that people use to get a jump on the weekend.”

Thank you to Earthmover Credit Union, the presenting sponsor for Live & Uncorked.