The Star Spangled Spectacular commodores have announced The Pork Tornadoes as its 2024 headlining band from 8-10 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3 at the Sunset Park Band Shell.
Putting their own spin on an eclectic mix of songs from Taylor Swift to Chris Stapleton and Phil Collins, the band has been named one of Iowa’s most versatile music groups. Their debut EP peaked on the Apple iTunes Pop charts at #20, and the band has more than 20 million views on their videos. The Pork Tornadoes recently achieved viral success with the fourth most- viewed cover of “Tennessee Whiskey” on YouTube and an impromptu performance of “In the Air Tonight” with a drum line featured in Rolling Stone.
Holly Schipper and Liz Smith, 2024 Star Spangled Spectacular commodores, say the turnout was so great last July 3 and after the band’s performance at a RAGBRAI event, that they wanted to re-book them for 2024. “We like that they perform songs spanning from five different decades, so they meet all types of genres for our diverse audience,” says Schipper. “We know their venues sell out quickly, because it’s always a party when the Pork Tornadoes play,” added Smith. “We can’t wait to have them in Storm Lake again.”
Paving the way for The Pork Tornadoes will be DJ Nick from 6:30-7:30—his second opening for the band. With more than 20 years of spinning mastery under his belt, DJ Nick is set to ignite the night with an explosive fusion of beats, rhythm, and pure musical adrenaline. According to Nystrom Productions, “DJ Nick possesses an unparalleled knack for selecting the perfect tracks that send crowds into a frenzy of euphoria. From pulsating basslines to infectious melodies, his seamless transitions and uncanny ability to read the room ensure that every set is an unforgettable journey through the realms of sonic bliss.”
DJ Nystrom and The Pork Tornadoes will take the stage following the Storm Lake Municipal Band during Wednesday evening’s celebration at the lakefront Sunset Park. Additional musical acts for Thursday, July 4 will be announced in the coming weeks.
The commodores encourage attendees to bring a lawn chair for music beginning at 5:30, enjoy the food, and even bring a cooler of their own to the concert which will wrap up around 10 p.m. Family-friendly entertainment will remain a focus for the 2024 events with the Classic Car Cruise, Kiddie Parade, balloon art, Peter’s One-Man Danger Circus Spectacular, and airbrush tattoos and face painting throughout the evening. A full schedule can be viewed at www.starspangledspectacular.com/schedule.
The Star Spangled Spectacular is still accepting Grand Marshal nominations for the Big Parade as well. Nomination forms are available to pick up in the Storm Lake United Office and for download at www.starspangledspectacular.net and are due by May 1. Parade entry registration will begin in May.
About the Star Spangled Spectacular
A favorite Northwest Iowa tradition, Storm Lake’s annual Star Spangled Spectacular celebrates Independence Day along the City’s beautiful shores. The family-friendly event is held July 3-4 and welcomes fresh entertainment and returning favorites such as The Big Parade, food and shopping vendors, a classic Car Cruise, the Ride-Run, fireworks, a Patriotic Ceremony, a Kiddie Parade, and more. Visit www.starspangledspectacular.net.
