The Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill has kicked off the ninth season of its popular end-of-the-workweek celebration called “Fridays on the Front Porch” and the July lineup includes Ted Walters Band (July 1), Mel Melton & The Wicked Mojo (July 8), Big Fat Gap (July 15), Mick Mixon and The Franklin Street Band (July 22) and The Gravy Boys (July 29).

Live bluegrass music creates the perfect atmosphere for kicking back, relaxing and getting a jump on the weekend. Each Friday from 5-9 pm, The Inn offers a picnic menu with beer, wine and drink specials, and plenty of comfortable seating under the shady oaks and magnolias on the Inn’s front lawn. There is no cover charge or reservations for the event.

As part of its ongoing efforts to feature local products, The Carolina Inn has partnered with Carolina Brewery to serve the Sky Blue Golden Ale (silver medal at World Beer Championships) throughout this year’s schedule. Other Carolina Brewery beers currently on the regular menu include the Flagship IPA (Gold Medal Great American Beer Festival) on tap inside at the Crossroads Bar. Carolina Brewery’s Firecracker Pale Ale will be served as a summer seasonal offering.

2011 Schedule

July 1 – Ted Walters Band

July 8 – Mel Melton & The Wicked Mojo

July 15 – Big Fat Gap

July 22 – Mick Mixon and The Franklin Street Band

July 29 – The Gravy Boys

August 5 – Ted Walters Band

August 12 – The Gravy Boys

August 19 – Big Fat Gap

August 26 – Mel Melton & The Wicked Mojo

September 2 – The Gravy Boys

September 9 – Big Fat Gap

September 16 – Mel Melton & The Wicked Mojo

September 23 – Lizh and The Big Band

September 30 – The Morning After

October 7 – Mel Melton & The Wicked Mojo