What began as a rainout turned into a warm, neighborly evening in Delavan as the July 8th performance of the Pekin Park Concert Band was canceled due to inclement weather—but the music of conversation and laughter filled Veterans Park instead.

As the skies opened over Delavan, residents and visitors sought shelter in the Veterans Park pavilion, where they were met not with silence but with the sizzle of brats, the pop of popcorn, and the lively hum of conversation. What might have been a quiet disappointment blossomed into a community cookout—a gathering that showcased Delavan’s trademark hospitality.

Band Finds Shelter—and a Welcome Break

Though the musicians didn’t get to take the stage, members of the Pekin Park Concert Band enjoyed a respite under the shelter, waiting out the weather with hope—and ultimately joining the festivities. Their unexpected break transformed into an evening of relaxed conversation, shared stories, and smiles over dinner with the community they came to entertain.

Band Boosters Lead the Charge

Mark and Margaret Cunningham, longtime supporters of the band, quickly pivoted plans and made room for all guests inside the pavilion. Guests enjoyed free hot dogs, brats, chips, lemonade, iced tea, and Laurie Magan's famous cookies—generously provided by the Cunninghams. Popcorn was courtesy of the Bank of Pontiac, popped fresh on-site thanks to Mayor Adam White, who brought his personal popcorn machine and staffed it alongside his children, Atticus and Santiana.

Elected Officials Roll Up Their Sleeves

City officials—including City Clerk Tia Galloway and Aldermen Levi Birkey and Linda Slabaugh—joined forces with Delavan Township Trustee JoAnn Beymer at the food service table, making sure no guest went hungry. Grill duty fell to grill masters John Larimore and Duane Sutton, while Margaret Cunningham kept the operation smooth and swift. Mark Cunningham worked the crowd with enthusiasm, introducing neighbors and igniting conversations between strangers who quickly became friends.

A Rainy Day Reimagined

Though the band never played a note that night, the real performance came from the people gathered in the pavilion. Laughter bounced off the roof, stories were swapped over lemonade, and new connections were forged with the ease only small-town warmth can achieve. A cancellation became a celebration—proof that while the rain may dampen plans, it can never drown out community spirit.