South Park soon will be emitting smooth tunes again as the Lawrence City Band begins the 2011 season.

The local tradition will grace the bandstand in the downtown park starting Wednesday. The eight-week season, with music starting at 8 p.m. every Wednesday, is free and open to the public.

The tail end of the season features some of the most popular events, including the annual Children’s Concert on July 6 and the finale, which includes the 1812 Overture, fireworks and cannon fire on July 13.

The events are sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department and assisted by the Rice Foundation.