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Summer in the City
New York City’s Best Summer Concerts and Festivals
The summer season is officially upon us, and with the higher temperatures come sundresses, outdoor brunches, endless rosé, Central Park picnics, and a wide array of options and adventures. There is always an intangible and exhilarating feeling during summer in the city, and New York always brings the world’s best in music and entertainment. With free line-ups and unforgettable venues, there are seemingly limitless concert events and offerings to match every musical taste and potential mood for tourists and locals alike. Whether you prefer the hard beats of hip hop and electronic music or the smooth sounds of classic jazz, there is truly an option for everyone. We have highlighted some of the biggest and most-anticipated concert events for the summer, so put on your dancing shoes, pour the rosé, and prepare partake in one of New York’s most quintessential summer traditions.
SummerStage
Arguably the biggest and the best of all of the offerings, this summer will celebrate the 32nd year of this acclaimed series. Backed by The City Parks Foundation, the outdoor summer concert has become renowned for presenting top shows across all five of the New York City boroughs. This year, the lineup includes more than 100 shows in 16 parks. Kicked- off in June and running through August, this month will feature music legends including Judy Torres, Mr. Cheeks, Frankie Negrón, Queens duo Capone-N-Noreaga, and many more. And the best part is that it’s all free!
Dates: Now Through August 27th
Address: Varies.
For the complete music lineup and details please visit the official event website (here)
Broadway in Bryant Park
This concert series is definitely for musical lovers only. Set in picturesque Bryant Park and moments from The ROW Hotel, Broadway in Bryant Park allows patrons to enjoy the sounds of Broadway and talents of its biggest starts without the big Broadway price tags. Once a week, through mid-August, the park will come alive with legendary songs from such award-winning Broadway as Kinky Boots, Chicago, Waitress, Avenue Q, Miss Saigon, the newly opened Anastasia, and many more.
Dates: July 27th, August 3rd and August 10th
Address: Bryant Park is between 40th and 42nd Streets & Fifth and Sixth Avenues
For the complete show lineup and details please visit the official event website (here)
The Today Show Citi Concert Series
For those brave enough to wake up before the sun rises to secure a spot at Rockefeller Plaza, the Today Show will play host to the world’s biggest music stars in the Citi Concert Series. With a summer lineup that includes Hailee Steinfeld, Chris Stapleton, Fitz and the Tantrums, DNCE, Brett Eldredge, and Jason Aldean, this series unquestionably has the most star power. We think this one has all of the marks for a worthy bucket list check, so set your alarm early and get prepped for your potential television cameo!
On weekdays, the live show starts at 7 a.m., but it is recommended to join the line before 6:30 a.m. for a better chance to secure the best place in the crowd. On Sunday the show starts at 8 a.m. and it’s recommended to arrive by 7:15 a.m.
Dates: July 28th, August 4th, August 7th, and August 25th
Address: Studio 1A is located in midtown Manhattan in New York City, on 48th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues
For the complete show lineup and details please visit the Today Show website (here)
Katz Concert Series: Queens Symphony Orchestra
Currently in its 63rd season, Queens Symphony Orchestra (QSO) is the borough's only professional orchestra and is the oldest and largest professional arts organization in Queens. The Orchestra is comprised of professional musicians who also perform on Broadway, with the New York City Ballet, and various prestigious orchestras. This group comes together as an orchestra for the people to present at least 25 concerts throughout the year, making classical music accessible to everyone. They will be performing August 2nd from 7:00pm -8:30pm on the lawn at St. John’s University. So, take a moment in the bustle of the city to savor the timeless beauty of orchestral music alongside someone special. Grab a blanket and a bottle of wine for the ultimate romantic date.
Date: August 2nd
Address: 8000 Utopia Parkway Queens, NY 11439.
For additional details and concerts visit the Queens Symphony Orchestra website (here)
Summer on the Hudson: Amplified Sundays
Amp up your Sunday Funday with Summer on the Hudson, a weekly event that brings a different flavor of music throughout July. With a lineup that includes every genre from soul to flamenco, reggae, and more, this concert series combines international culture and a view of the city’s most spectacular sunsets over the Hudson River.
Dates: July 30th
Address: Pier 1 in Riverside Park South at West 70th Street, Manhattan
For additional details and concerts visit the Riverside Park website (here)
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