As the sun finally made its appearance at the beginning of this summer, many businesses were forced to close their doors and families were encouraged to stay at home. The rising need for social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic put an end to the majority of large festivities planned for this summer.
Despite the gloom COVID-19 cast, many have used the damper restrictions put on well-laid plans to get creative and enjoy the summer in ways different than expected. Long closed businesses like Motor Vu Drive and other curbside facilities made a return to provide entertainment. And now, Manny Ibarra and his brother are bringing something completely new to Idaho Falls -- curbside concerts.
“I hadn't done a show in a long time. I actually stopped doing concerts once my son was born. The last time I had performed was four years ago at the Colonial Theater,” Manny Ibarra said. “I figured now was probably a good time to do something.”
By something, Manny meant organizing a concert in Idaho Falls and not just any concert, but one people could attend while comfortably social distancing. A few weeks ago, Manny successfully executed a concert in the parking lots of Grease Monkey and Abracadabras. Concert goers enjoyed everything from free merchandise (including masks, shirts and posters) to delicious tacos and rolled ice cream.
The event brought struggling vendors and Idaho Falls residents together to have a good time and regain a piece of the summer many had thought of as lost. Curbside concert fans can learn more about Manny Ibarra’s upcoming events by following his YouTube Channel.