The unofficial start of summer has come and gone, and now it’s time to have some fun New York. After a brutal winter, anyone who complains about how hot it gets must be sent to the Arctic. But let’s not go to extremes. Let’s enjoy the summer for what it is, and all the free concerts it has to offer, eh?
That’s right--it’s time to get out and get active. This summer
is a great time to explore new acts, celebrate our legends, and pump it up to
musicians we enjoy so greatly—the artists that are currently the soundtracks to
our lives. And this summer, you can do so from only a few feet away.
If you want to get out and go to a concert this summer that is
free of charge, there are a few things you need to know. First off get there
early. At least an hour early when the
doors open. Bigger stars require earlier
entries. Also, know what you can bring, and check the site for further
instructions. Flickety-flicks and video are great in some concerts and frowned
upon in others. Know where to go by checking the links below.
If you have a review, or pics, feel free to @GirlBlueSTL on Twitter for a retweet!
And have some fun—it’s well-deserved.—GB
*More shows will be featured and updated when announced.
*End times are approximate
*End times are approximate
CELEBRATE BROOKLYN:
What it's about: Run by BRIC Performing arts, Celebrate
Brooklyn showcases music dance and theater at Prospect Park Bandshell. Come out
and support the first show of the summer, the fabulous Janelle MonĂ¡e, on
Wednesday, June 4. Feel free to get close to the stage with the standing room,
or layback behind the scenes and have a picnic in the park, and take in the
pleasant sounds!
Where: Prospect Park Bandshell
Check out more: CELEBRATE BK
TODAY TOYOTA CONCERT SERIES:
What it's about: Get a bunch of bigwig music stars together on
a NYC corner on a Friday morning and what do you have? Today Toyota Concert
Series. This year is sure to be one of the best with performances by for
Pharrell Williams, Aloe Blacc, and Ariana Grande, just to name a few. This one is for the early birds.
Where: TODAY's Window on the World Studio, located at 49th Street and
Rockefeller Plaza in New York City
Check out more: TODAY
CITY PARKS FOUNDATION/ SUMMERSTAGE:
What it's about: Summerstage is the best in music dance art
and film. All showcasing artist from all
different genres including a wide variety of Latin performances, Opera,
R&B, altenative, hip-hop, advanced open dance classes, comedy, stuff for
the kiddies, and more. Expand your horizons,
for these are some shows you do not want to miss.
Where: Various, NYC and the boroughs
Where: Various, NYC and the boroughs
Check out more: CITY PARKS/
SUMMERSTAGE
MLK JR CONCERT SERIES:
What it 's about: Hosted by Borough President Marty Markowitz,
this Monday Night concert series is in it’s 32st year. The show mostly
showcases hip-hop, R&B, and soul artists that tickle our fancy. They give
props to the seasoned cats and the youngin’s alike. Can’t wait to see what they have
in store for this year.
Where: Wingate Field, Brooklyn
GOOD MORNING AMERICA CONCERT SERIES:
What it's about: Get a behind-the-scenes look at a television
taping and enjoy some of the biggest most widely known act in music, at the
same time! Cock-a-doodle-doo says the rooster crowing (because that’s how early
you have to wake up to partake in this fun morning fest)!
Where: Rumsey Playfield in Central Park
Check out more: GOOD MORNINGAMERICA
RIVER TO RIVER
What it's about: It’s music dance theater and visual
art--everything comes into play with River-To-River's summer event
schedule, showing in Governors Island, Rockefeller Park and more from June 19 to June 29.
Where: Various
Check our more: RIVER TO RIVER
THE LOWDOWN HUDSON BLUES FESTIVAL:
What it's about: Two days of the best of blues, then and now.
This year Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings take the stage at Brookfield Place for
stint downtown that you’ll never forget.
Where: Brookfield Place (formerlyWFC--220 Vesey Street btwn West
Street and the Hudson River
Check out more: LOWDOWN HUDSON
BAM RHYTHM AND BLUES FESTIVAL:
What it's about: BAM is an eclectic mix of culture, making for
a free one hour show, usually at noon, in the heart of Brooklyn.
Where: Metrotech Commons, (Flatbush and Myrtle Ave cross-street)
Check out more: BAM RHYTM AND
BLUES
VILLAGE VOICE 4 KNOTS MUSIC FESTIVAL
What it's about: Radkey, Nude Beach, the Julie Ruin and more
take on this years Village Voice 4 Knots music festival, showcasing the sound
of the city. Plane, train, car, boat, or bike, just get there. Free for all
ages
Where: South Street Seaport, Pier 17
Check out more: VV 4 KNOTS
RIVER ROCKS CONCERT SERIES:
What it's about: three magic concerts by the pier.
Where: Pier 84
Check out more: RIVER ROCKS
BROADWAY IN BRYANT PARK:
What it's about: if you love Broadway, then you might want to
come see your favorite actors and actresses sing your favorite Broadway tunes
to your favorite Broadway musicals. Can you imagine? It will be your “favorite”
time of the summer.
Where: Bryant Park Lawn, NYC
Check out more: BWAY BRYANT PARK