Free Outdoor Concerts Return to Downtown Beginning on June 26
The Summer Sound Series of weekly concerts returns to Downtown New Bedford on June 26, bringing crowds and free entertainment on Friday nights through the beginning of September.
Organized by AHA! New Bedford, presented by Mayor Jon Mitchell, and sponsored by Explore New Bedford, WPRI Channel 12, The Black Whale, Candela Cucina, National Club Mexican Cantina, The Whale’s Tail, and New Bedford Light, the 2026 Summer Sound Series brings an eclectic mix of genres with new acts and returning favorites.
“The Summer Sound Series is one more reason to look forward to summer in New Bedford,” Mayor Mitchell said. “The concerts and block parties energize Downtown and support a variety of small businesses.”
“There is something truly magical about watching generations come together, complete with dancing in the streets! The joy and camaraderie are palpable on these summer nights,” said Kim Goddard, executive director of AHA! New Bedford. “It is such a privilege to produce the Summer Sound Series. We are so grateful for this devoted community that makes it all come alive.”
This year’s Summer Sound Series also coincides with the NB250 celebrations on July 3, which promises to be a fun evening of family-friendly activities and music culminating with the annual fireworks display over the harbor at 9 p.m. More information on the NB250 celebration on July 3 is coming soon.
This year’s Summer Sound Series also takes place in collaboration with two other popular Downtown festivals:
- The Groovalottos will help kick off the NB Roots and Branches Festival with some funk, thump, and soul music on Friday, July 17. Now in its fourth year, the two-day event is an entirely free festival celebrating music, art, and creativity with primarily acoustic performances in and around local businesses.
- Jammin’ will fill Downtown with reggae tunes on Friday, Aug. 21 to start the 3rd EyE Open annual hip hop festival. It will feature live music, dance exhibitions and battles, live street art, interactive activities, and community programmers.
For more information on the 2026 Summer Sound Series, visit ahanewbedford.org and explorenewbedford.com.
All concerts run from 6:30-8:30 p.m. except July 3, which begins at 6 p.m.
The 2026 Summer Sound Series Schedule is:
JUNE 26: NB RUDE BOYS
Location: Lower Union Street
Genre: Ska
Note: With special guests Lori Gomes, New Bedford vocalist, business owner and pillar in the Downtown community; John Collins, Dartmouth saxophonist formerly with “7 Day Weekend”; and Walt Bostonian, international recording artist and trombonist who has performed with legends “Bim Skala Bim.”
JULY 3: AUTUMN DRIVE AND MORRISSEY BLVD
Location: Purchase Street
Genre: Indie
Note: The concert will start at 6 p.m. and finish at 8:30 p.m. in time for the fireworks over the harbor at 9 p.m.
JULY 17: GROOVALOTTOS
Location: Lower Union Street
Genre: Funk
Note: Kicks off the NB Roots and Branches Festival
JULY 24: FUNKIE WHITE HONKIES
Location: Purchase Street
Genre: Funk
AUG. 7: NEAL McCARTHY ELECTRIC 6-PIECE BAND
Location: Lower Union Street
Genre: Electric Blues
AUG. 14: PEARLY BAKER BAND
Location: Purchase Street
Genre: Grateful Dead tribute/jam band
AUG. 21: JAMMIN’
Location: Lower Union Street
Genre: Reggae
Note: Kicks off the 3rd Eye hip hop festival
AUG. 28: BRIAN & THE CASSETTES
Location: Purchase Street
Genre: Indie
Note: Special Guests TBD
SEPT. 4: ENTRAIN
Location: Lower Union Street
Genre: Funk and world
During Summer Sound Series concerts, there will be free parking available at the Elm Street Garage and the Zeiterion Garage. All concerts are weather permitting.
