New Bedford’s Summer Sound Series transforms downtown into a hub of music and celebration. Experience free outdoor concerts spanning genres from jazz and blues to reggae and funk.
These block party-style gatherings are perfect for music lovers looking to dance, enjoy local beverages, and take in the beautiful sites of historic downtown.
Concerts take place on select Fridays from 6:30 – 8:30 PM.
2025 Concert Schedule
JUNE 20 – PEARLY BAKER BAND
GRATEFUL DEAD COVERS
PART OF JAWSJAM: A BIGGER BOAT BLOCK PARTY
Location: Lower Union Street Stage
JUNE 27 – MELO GREEN
FUNK/SOUL/ROCK
Location: Purchase Street Stage
JULY 4 – THE JETHROS
COUNTRY/FOLK/SWING/JAZZ
STAGE HOST: WHALING MUSEUM FIRST FRIDAYS
Location: Lower Union Street Stage (corner of Johnny Cake Hill)
JULY 18 – NB RUDE BOYS
SKA
WITH NB ROOTS AND BRANCHES FESTIVAL
Location: Purchase Street Stage
JULY 25 – THE GROOVALOTTOS
FUNK, THUMP & SOUL
Location: Lower Union Street Stage
AUG 8 – JAMMIN’
REGGAE | BOB MARLEY TRIBUTE BAND
Location: Purchase Street Stage
AUG 15 – NEAL MCCARTHY ELECTRIC 6 PIECE BAND
ROCK & BLUES
Location: Lower Union Street Stage
AUG 22 – COLBY JAMES & THE RAMBLERS
ROCK-COUNTRY
Location: Purchase Street Stage
Participating Restaurants
Purchase Street Stage
No Problemo, The Pour Farm Tavern, The Vault
Lower Union Street Stage
Port Royal, Play Arcade, New Beige, Cultivator Shoals, Cork Wine & Tapas
2025 Summer Sound Series Sponsors
Organized by AHA! New Bedford, funding for the Summer Sound Series is provided by the City of New Bedford through American Rescue Plan Act awards.
Fast Facts
Heading to your first Summer Sound Series concert?
Here are some fast facts to help you have a great night!
Wear your comfiest dancing shoes.
Bring a chair.
Feel free to bring your own beach or camping chair to experience the concerts in comfort.
Enjoy a tasty treat.
Local restaurants and bars will be popping up so you can purchase snacks, cocktails, and mocktails during the performances.
Park for free!
Elm Street and Zeiterion garages are open and free during the Summer Sound Series!
Shop around the block.
Pop into the shops and galleries open late during Summer Sounds Series concerts.
And don't forget...
HAVE FUN!
