Martinsville, Virginia

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Celebration 2013 Promises to Really Rock

 

One of the most revered and enduring rock bands of the 1980's - Night Ranger - will headline Celebration 2013 at Martinsville Speedway on Wednesday, July 3.

Night Ranger crashed into the rock scene in 1983 with their multi-platinum album "Midnight Madness" which included mega-hits "Sister Christian," "When You Close Your Eyes," and "(You Can Still) Rock in America."

"When we found out Night Ranger was available on July 3rd, we let them know immediately we wanted them for Celebration 2013," said Martinsville Speedway President Clay Campbell. "We think it is huge to get a band of their magnitude here for Celebration. It's going to be a great show, a great night for everyone."

This will be the 15th consecutive year for Celebration at Martinsville Speedway, and as has been the case every year, the entire night is free, from the music to carnival rides to games. All concession items will be sold at reduced prices.

According to Jeb Bassett, who is in his fifth year of leading fund-raising efforts for Celebration, fundraising has reached "about the 60 percent mark" for the show. "All the sponsors acknowledge how fantastic the Celebration events have been over the years...and how their employees, their friends and their families all look forward to the event.  It's become a tradition," added Bassett.  Sponsors are still needed, however, and any donations will be accepted. 

Like no other rock band, Night Ranger epitomized the sound and style of the 1980's, and that remains true today. They continue non-stop touring, playing to sold-out crowds around the world, including stops in Europe, Mexico, Canada, Japan and the United States.

Over the years, the band's music has made notable contributions to and been featured in many different areas of media and popular culture. Night Ranger's songs can be heard in the Rock Band and Guitar Hero video games; Rock of Ages hit Broadway musical and film; the Oscar-nominated film Boogie Nights.

In addition to the concert, there will be more than a dozen children's carnival rides and the evening will culminate with the largest fireworks' display in the area.  The children's rides will open at 5 p.m. and remain open until 11:30 p.m. The concert will begin at 8 p.m. followed by the fireworks. The entire event, including the rides, will be free of charge.