While music coming from Covered Bridge Park isn’t a new concept, Elizabethton Parks and Recreation is working to continue the trend — but with an extra twist.

Kelly Kitchens, programs and special events coordinator with Parks & Rec, recently announced the department will hold the inaugural “Battle at the Bridge” competition on Saturday, May 12, from 4 to 8 p.m. in downtown Elizabethton.

Parks & Rec, Carter County Drug Prevention Coalition, Northeast Community Credit Union, Sound Asylum, Ambrose Sound and Campbell’s Morrell Music are all partnering to offer a battle-of-the-bands for local musicians between 13 to 19 years old.

Kitchens added the event is free and open to any performer and band that wants to participate. Any family-friendly musical style is eligible for the competition.

“The competition is open to any amateur bands or solo acts,” Kitchens said. “We’re asking any musician or band to sign up to compete. We’ll be selecting between four or five acts for the day-of to compete for the grand prize.”

According to Kitchens, the winner of the competition will receive eight hours of studio recording to produce one original track courtesy of Sound Asylum in Johnson City, $250 in Ticketmaster gift cards, a first place trophy and other prize donations. Runner-up bands will also receive a trophy for their efforts.

Since assuming the position of coordinator, Kitchens indicated the goal moving forward is to continue the list of projects offered by the department and expand it out to different demographics in the community.

During the day, other activities available will include vendors, an urban art display and the potential for a professional bmx/skateboard demonstration.

“We’re setting this up as a festival of sorts for the teenagers in the community,” Kitchens said. “We really want to incorporate all ages and demographics of our community with our events.”

Registration is underway for the Battle at the Bridge. For more information for potential sponsorship opportunities or to participate, email kitchens_kelly@outlook.com, call (423) 547-6441 or visit the City of Elizabethton website.