If the Rose City of Portland is now better known as 'Portlandia' because her residents are constantly striving to "Keep Portland Weird," then one of its natives, Scott Pemberton, is doing his part.

Pemberton, the namesake and frontman/lead guitarist of the Scott Pemberton Band, will headline the first evening of 10 consecutive concerts on historic North Front Street in downtown Yakima as part of the Downtown Summer Nights series, which kicks off this Thursday evening (June 15).

The series of live music, food and drink, is free of charge and open to all ages every Thursday night through Aug. 17 from 5:30-9.

Opening the first night musically will be Yakima's own Entice The Mice, who will hit the stage at approximately 6 p.m.

Here's a sample of Entice the Mice:

And here's Pemberton:

The free Downtown Summer Nights concert series is presented by Stewart Subaru and Downtown Association of Yakima on North Front Street between Yakima Avenue and Staff Sgt. Pendleton Way. Chinook Fest powers the music, while Legends Casino Hotel sponsors the stage.

While the music plays, enjoy a number of food options as well as a beer and wine garden.

Virginia Mason Memorial provides a cooling station complete with a misting tent. Regional Health hosts an interactive, safe and fun kids area, and MOD Pizza -- with help from Arts on the Move -- oversees all of the weekly activities. U.S. Cellular even offers cellphone charging stations for when you've drained your battery taking photos and videos.

More From KMGWFM