One of the things I missed the most during the Pandemic is attending concerts. The good news is that live music is coming back!
Connecticut venues are slowly building their events calendars, and bands are announcing their tours. They have missed us, too! And now that warmer temps have arrived, we can also look forward to one of the best things about summer: listening to live music in natural settings while sharing a picnic with friends on a green meadow, at the seaside, or under the stars.
Here is a list of places you can enjoy live music this summer – and best of all, admission is free!
The Levitt Pavilion – Westport
Nestled behind the Westport Library in downtown Westport, you will find a beautiful venue. Sitting on the banks of the Saugatuck River, the Levitt boasts an ample sloping lawn with a professional stage and sound system, real bathrooms, and food and drink for sale. Each night boasts a different music genre, and even comedy acts! So, grab your chair, picnic blanket and some tasty treats and enjoy! This year registration is required so sign up today. Most shows are free, with a few fundraisers sprinkled in. https://www.levittpavilion.com/calendar/
C.H.I.R.P. - Ridgefield
Or: Concert Happenings in Ridgefield Parks. Barbara Manners has run this Ridgefield series for many years and curates a diverse range of music and performers. The concerts are held in Ballard Park on Main Street. The performances range from blues to folk to Irish music. Held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, there is something for everyone. If it rains, concerts are held in the adjacent Ridgefield Playhouse. Donations are welcome. If for whatever reason you cannot get to the show in person, every show is streamed on Facebook. https://chirpct.org/events/2021-concerts/
Rowayton Music Festival - Rowayton
This sleepy series starts on July 4th and runs through Labor Day. Shows are held at either Bayley Beach or Pinkney Park. Pick up a picnic dinner at Brendan’s 101, Rowayton Pizza, or the Rowayton Market, and enjoy the show. Rowayton’s music committee has brought many little-known acts to perform who went on to selling out large venues. Examples of these are Lake Street Dive, The Record Company, Lucius, and Billy Strings. Donations are welcome https://www.rowaytoncivicassociation.org/events/event-four-lgdna
Black Rock Porch Fest – Black Rock
At the end of August, residents of Black Rock in Bridgeport host a day of music on their porches or front lawns. Park your car and walk from house to house enjoying a variety of music from local performers. The “hosts” often have snacks and refreshments for the taking. This event is very well run and organized. https://www.facebook.com/blackrockporchfest/
Sherman Green Music Series – Fairfield
Popular local bands grace the gazebo at Fairfield’s Sherman Green. Pick up a bite from a local restaurant and enjoy live music all week long.
https://www.fairfieldct.org/Sherman-Green-Concert-Series-2021
Back Country Jazz - Greenwich
This free series is held at various back-country estates in Greenwich. Bennie Wallace, a talented sax player, curates an extraordinary roster of jazz musicians to come together and entertain. Drinks are provided in a bucolic setting. Contact Jeanette Wallace for more information or to sign-up. jeanette@backcountryjazz.org
Other Live Music Outdoor Venues
Several area venues are also working on excellent outdoor line ups! While not all of these shows are not free, they still offer a wonderful experience of live music under the stars. Here are some worth checking out as they bring and showcase world-class acts to the area.
Central Park Summerstage, Manhattan, NY.(free and benefit shows) https://cityparksfoundation.org/summerstage/
Forest Hills Stadium, Queens, NY. https://foresthillsstadium.com/
Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield, CT. https://ridgefieldplayhouse.org/
Wall Street Theatre, Norwalk, CT. https://wallstreettheater.com/
Westville Music Bowl, Westville, CT. https://www.westvillemusicbowl.com/
I hope to see you there!