preloaddefault-post-thumbnail

It just isn’t summer without an outdoor concert to enjoy under the warm breeze, and this summer, New York City has you covered with free concerts throughout the Big Apple.

Whether you’re into the top 40, hip hop or classical music, you’ll find a freebie that will satisfy that summer concert craving. Check out these five free concert series being held in NYC this summer.

Central Park Summerstage

Central Park has been home to free outdoor summer music festivals for decades, and the most noteworthy experience is Central Park SummerStage at Rumsey Playfield. This year, the music starts on May 20 and includes performances by Beck, Neon Trees, Counting Crows and Toad the Wet Sprocket.

Good Morning America

GMA’s Summer Concert Series kicks off May 23 with a live performance by Lady Antebellum, followed by a summer packed with artists like Robin Thicke, Keith Urban and Paramore. Concerts are held in Central Park’s Rumsey Playfield every Friday morning through Aug. 29.

Toyota Concert Series on TODAY

Rockefeller Center will host free concerts on most Fridays throughout summer during the NBC Today Show’s annual summer concert series. Concerts will be held through early September and feature popular artists like Maroon 5, Usher, Pharrell and Fall Out Boy.

New York Philharmonic: Concerts in the Parks

You don’t need to spend big bucks to check out the famed New York Philharmonic this summer: Just pack a picnic and head to select parks throughout New York to enjoy music under the stars. This year, five free concerts will be held in July.

Broadway in Bryant Park

Any fan of the theater will make Broadway their second home while visiting the Big Apple, but you can catch popular stage performances for free in the summer during Broadway in Bryant Park. Performances are held throughout July and August.

 

(All images: NYC & Company)

About the author

Marissa WillmanMarissa Willman earned a bachelor's degree in journalism before downsizing her life into two suitcases for a teaching gig in South Korea. Seoul was her home base for two years of wanderlusting throughout six countries in Asia. In 2011, Marissa swapped teaching for travel writing and now calls Southern California home.

Explore more articles