A relatively cool evening greeted festival goers at Sundown Salute in downtown Junction City Friday evening.

Police Chief Dan Breci estimated the turnout at approximately 4,000 people for the activities. That include a country music performance by the Phil Vandel Band, Motown, Funk and Soul by the Funk Syndicate, and a performance by Boogie Wonderland.

Breci said late Friday evening the crowd was fantastic, everyone was behaving and having a good time. He praised the performing groups. “I think the groups are great. They’re really fantastic. I ‘ve been saying for the last three hours I thought this place would be packed tonight just because the weather is so nice.”

Vendor Coordinator Sam Niemcyzk noted there are 12 food vendors and more than 25 craft vendors selling items ranging from toy and clothing to chain metal outfits. “They’ve actually got a Wonder Woman chain metal outfit over there. That looks really neat.”The number of craft vendors is a big increase from a year ago.The food vendors range from those selling funnel cake to chicken on a stick.

Junction City Commissioner Phyllis Fitzgerald enjoyed seeing all the people up in front of the audience during the concerts that were dancing. On her favorite activity, Fitzgerald said, “My favorite thing to do down here is to walk around, visit with people I know, meet new people, enjoy the music and just really try to have a good time down here.”

Sundown Salute is scheduled to continue Saturday beginning with a car show from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m.  Activities in Heritage Park will range from the All Star Stunt Dogs Challenge at 11 a.m. to Keith Leff the magician at 1:15 and 3 p.m.

The Saturday evening concert lineup includes Battle of the Bands at 5:30 p.m. followed by Goddesses of Rock at 7 p.m. and Thunderhead – A Tribute to Rush at 9 p.m.