Ahhhh, summer. Birds chirp, bees buzz and music blares.

It's time for outdoor concerts and summer festivals to go on sale and music fans everywhere are beginning to take stock.

Smaller local engagements this year, which are generally free, include a set of concert series hosted by East Lansing.

Ami Field, community events coordinator for East Lansing, said the shows bring people downtown to discover restaurants and local businesses, and give community artists a place to display talent.

"We try to showcase Mid-Michigan artists," she said. "It creates a lively downtown atmosphere that's different.

"It's a great thing for families and students to do in the summer."

The Fountain Square Concert Series and Live! Ann Street Plaza often attract summer crowds each Friday and Saturday night during the warm months.

Jeff Corey, who's been working as the director of public relations for Palace Sports and Entertainment since before The Palace of Auburn Hills was born, has witnessed everything that comes with the summer events.

"We've pretty much seen everything come through," the spokesman said. "It's truly a crazy ride from Memorial Day all the way to Labor Day."

Beyond grass-throwing incidents, mud fights and drunken hill rolling, summer insights a different mood with concertgoers at DTE Energy Music Theatre and at the Meadowbrook Festival.

"For our area, there's probably only really three or four months of good weather," he said. "When we get that weather people really like to make the best of it."