Who Remembers Q-106.5 Block Parties at the Augusta Civic Center?

As the Augusta Civic Center celebrates its 50th anniversary, I got thinking about a fun tradition that made each concert into a party.

How Is the Civic Center Recognizing the Anniversary?

On Tuesday evening, the folks at the Augusta Civic Center will hold an anniversary celebration as they recognize 50 years of fun and educational events. The public is invited to stop by, between 5 and 8 pm, to stroll through displays of photos and videos depicting artists and events from the past, while they listen to the music of singers who have performed there. A variety of events are being held, to recognize the anniversary, and that list can be found on the facility's Facebook page.

What Was a Q-106.5 Block Party?

As I read about the anniversary, I started remembering the Q-106.5 block parties that we held in my early years with the station. For anyone who doesn't remember these, let me explain. The station worked with the Civic Center to reserve one full section of seats for our listeners. Each person who sat in the 'Block Party' was given a Q-106.5 t-shirt that they were required to wear during the concert. We'd play games and give away silly little prizes, and just generally make our section the loudest, rowdiest group in the building.

Have Big Names Performed There?

It's amazing when I think about all the artists I've seen at the Augusta Civic Center. I met George Strait there, as well as Tammy Wynette. Wynonna, Clint Black, Hank Williams Jr. (with rockers Twisted Sister opening the show), and even the Beach Boys. Alabama was a personal favorite, and I saw them there many times, including one show that was especially stressful. Four people in our block party forgot their tickets, so I had to convince the staff that they were supposed to be in the concert. It all worked out, but not without a lot of convincing.

Happy Anniversary to the Augusta Civic Center. Thanks for 50 years of amazing memories.