SummerStage 2024 Returns This Week To Central Park: What To Know

CENTRAL PARK, NY — Summer 2024 is upon us, and this weekend marks the eagerly awaited return of the beloved Central Park SummerStage concert series, bringing live music back to Central Park.

Last month, the full lineup of all 80 — mostly free — shows were announced, causing music lovers all over the city to mark their calendars.

Concerts include headliners like James Arthur, T-Pain, Kim Gordon, Counting Crows, Ethel Cain, Christian McBride Big Band, Snail Mail and Kurt Elling, who will perform with Charlie Hunter and the Huntertones.

"SummerStage is back for another incredible season of free performances," said Heather Lubov, Executive Director of City Parks Foundation. "It's always an honor to bring a lineup of both established and rising artists that celebrate the rich cultural fabric of our neighborhoods across the city to parks, all for free."

This weekend, the concert series will commence with a James Arthur benefit concert on Friday in Central Park, followed by the official opening night on Saturday, featuring a complimentary performance by Grammy-winning singer Andra Day.

While the most prominent shows unfold at SummerStage's main venue in Central Park's Rumsey Playfield, concerts are also happening throughout the city, including Marcus Garvey Park in Harlem, Tompkins Square Park in the East Village, Herbert Von King Park in Bed-Stuy and The Coney Island Amphitheater on the Brooklyn boardwalk, among other locations.

Over 40 of the SummerStage concerts this summer are free shows, according to their website.

For the 30 or so non-free concerts, tickets can be as high as $120 each.

"Enjoying live music while outside in a park is one of the most joyful and memorable opportunities we can offer to New Yorkers, bringing neighbors and communities together for what is always a very special, shared experience," Lubov said.

The upcoming summer edition of the series will feature a remarkable total of 85 free and benefit shows across Central Park and various parks in all five boroughs, spanning from May 17 to Oct. 3.

Once again, this season promises to whisk fans on a global journey through the diverse neighborhoods of New York City, offering a vibrant tapestry of world rhythms.

Among the highlights, the Coney Island Amphitheater will host the legendary Godfather of Salsa, Andy Montañez, and salsa sensation Charlie Cruz, presenting the rich musical traditions of Puerto Rico on June 15.

French melodies will take center stage on Bastille Day, in collaboration with the Consulate General of France on July 14, showcasing captivating performances by Laurie Darmon, Magic System, and other special guests.

The festival will also pay homage to the birthplace of hip-hop, with events scattered throughout the boroughs.

Notable highlights include the return of MIKE'S Young World IV featuring Earl Sweatshirt and others on July 13, as well as the Chuck Chillout 40th Radio Anniversary Party featuring Ice T, MOP, Schoolly D and more, on Aug. 1, both set to rock Bed-Stuy’s Herbert Von King Park.

"We are thrilled to once again celebrate the vibrant diversity of New York City’s cultures and communities across all five boroughs," said Erika Elliott, Executive Artistic Director of SummerStage.

"We are continuing to support rising artists from around the world who are showcasing their fresh takes on various genres like hip-hop, Americana, rock, Latin, pop, and more. 2024 promises to be an unforgettable season," Elliott added.

To check out the shows, click here for the official SummerStage site.