Smithfield’s Olden Days festival kicks off Friday with oldies and beach music favorite Ocean Breeze.

The concert starts earlier than usual, at 7 p.m. June 24 on the gazebo stage in downtown Smithfield. The earlier concert time was initiated by Isle of Wight Tourism, which funds the Olden Days opening concert.

The concert is free. Bring a chair or blanket for added comfort.

Ocean Breeze calls itself a fun, party-style dance band with lots of energy, playing everything from romantic slow dance numbers to the best of Motown.

This is the Summer Concert Series’ 30^th season. Sponsored by The Smithfield Times and the Isle of Wight Arts League, the event provides free entertainment each Friday from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Next up is the Peninsula Concert Band with a patriotic theme on Friday, July 1.