Residents are invited to gather Sunday, July 5, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Linscott Park for the Swampscott Garden Music Gathering, a free afternoon celebrating music, art and community.

The Music Gathering is a reimagined version of the Garden Art Walk. Following the closing of ReachArts and the deaths of Garden Art Walk members Heidi Shear and Agatha Morrell, organizers simplified the event into a more casual community gathering.

“While this year’s event does not include the traditional garden stroll, it continues the Garden Art Walk’s spirit of bringing people together,” said organizer Pat Gorham. “The goal is simple: reconnect old friends, welcome new ones and continue cultivating the friendships and community connections that have grown through Swampscott’s gardening, music and arts community.”

Festivities begin at 1 p.m. with a community drum circle led by Philip Alexander, who will provide a variety of drums and percussion instruments for participants. No experience is necessary.

At 2 p.m., Tom Reid, Paul Todisco and Wendy Linkin, of The Boomerangs, will perform hits from the 1960s and 70s.

Mike Brison and Philip Alexander will follow at 2:30 p.m. with a mix of classic favorites.

Local musicians are encouraged to bring an instrument, play a tune or simply join the fun.

Gardeners are invited to take part in a surprise garden swap. 

“Bring a small tote bag containing a garden treasure – perhaps a plant, cutting, flowers, herbs, berries, or vegetables – and exchange it for another surprise from a fellow gardener,” Gorham said.

Attendees are also invited to sketch, write and relax. Guests are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket. A limited number of complimentary sketch pads, small journals and pencils will be available.

“Come relax, reconnect, create, and celebrate a summer afternoon where music, gardens, and friendship continue to bloom,” Gorham said.