Even though the weather’s always hot — and surely will be again this year — one of our favorite outdoor events of the year is the annual patriotic concert at Barrett’s Landing in downtown Franklin.

The Downtown Franklin Association serves up the treat each year on the Sunday evening preceding the Independence Day weekend. That might seem like odd timing for a patriotic concert. Why not on the Fourth of July, you might ask. Actually, the timing is quite good. Many citizens travel out of town for the Fourth and would miss it if the concert were held then. Also, other area communities have popular events that day, including the Sedley Recreation Association’s hugely successful Independence Day parade and other festivities.

The weekend preceding the Independence Day weekend tends to be a quiet weekend when most folks are around and looking for something to do. If you’re in that category, head down to Barrett’s Landing on Sunday evening and take a lawn chair or blanket.

The U.S. Fleet Forces Wind Ensemble will begin playing patriotic tunes at 6. Always on the repertoire is a medley of service anthems, during which veterans and active personnel from the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard are asked to stand and be honored. It’s one of the highlights of a fun evening and will make you swell with pride as an American.