NORWICH — The annual free NBT Bank Summer Concert Series is back. This July, the weekly concerts in East Park will return after a year long hiatus.

Concerts will take place every Thursday evening at 7 p.m. through July and August, and feature several popular artists. However, because of COVID-19 guidelines, the eight scheduled concerts will come with some rules.

"Current guidelines pertaining to public health will mean things will look a little different this year, but everyone felt like it was worth a little inconvenience to be able to bring the music back," Chenango Blues Association officials announced.

Due to the pandemic and ever-changing guidelines, Chenango Blues Association officials have stated that the events will only be open to those who are vaccinated.

"To meet NYS Department of Health regulations, only those who have received COVID-19 vaccinations will be able to attend. Children 16 and under who have not yet had a chance to be vaccinated can attend with a vaccinated adult," said officials. "Unfortunately, regulations meant either do it their way or don't do it at all."

Chenango Blues Association representative Eric Larsen said that they must submit a plan to the health department stating how they will keep the event safe.