New Rochelle's 'Downtown Summer Sizzle' Concerts Take Center Stage

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Ruby Dee Park at Library Green — a green space nested below the skyline, with authentic flavors from around the world just steps away — might just be among the best concert venues in the greater New York area. If you haven't already had the pleasure of enjoying live music as the city lights begin to pierce the red-umber tones of the sinking sun, then you're in luck.

The official start of the summer of sizzling free concerts is here.

The city of New Rochelle announced the launch of its first-ever "Downtown Summer Sizzle" concert series, a "weekly festival that is sure to bring fresh energy, matched with new and classic sounds, featuring exciting and memorable highlights brought right to the heart of the community."

The concert will kick off this Friday, at 4 p.m., in Ruby Dee Park at Library Green, with a performance from "The Full Count Big Band," who will bring all-American standards to the start of Memorial Day Weekend.

"We invite our entire community to enjoy outstanding musical performances, delicious food from local vendors, and a range of family-friendly activities at New Rochelle's "Summer Sizzle" concert series," Mayor Noam Bramson said. "This is yet another example of how our growing downtown is becoming a magnet for talent, creativity, and cultural energy."

The series will then continue every Saturday through September 30 in Ruby Dee Park. All ages are invited to join in the fun for an "unforgettable summer filled with music, food, arts, and community connection."

The "Downtown Summer Sizzle" concert series has a lineup of over 50 performers, offering diverse music to cater to all ages and tastes. The organizers say that the performances will range from beloved generational acts performed by exceptional cover bands to original music from local bands and acts.

Attendees will be able to expect a range of tribute acts paying homage to some of the biggest names in music such as Aretha Franklin, Bob Marley, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Tito Puente Jr. and Adele. See the full lineup of this summer's performances here.

"The '2023 Downtown Summer Sizzle' highlights the vibrant culture and artistic talent of New Rochelle. I am thrilled to see our community come together in celebration of music, food, and local entrepreneurship," City Manager Kathleen Gill said. "This series offers a fantastic lineup of performers and a platform for small businesses and artists to showcase their crafts. I invite everyone to join us at Ruby Dee Park and experience the lively atmosphere and sense of unity that the '2023 Downtown Summer Sizzle' brings to our city."

Each Saturday will also feature food trucks on Lawton Street, in addition to all the takeout and dine-in options available at downtown New Rochelle restaurants.

A series of special signature events, such as Pride, Bastille Day, Hispanic Heritage and a Jazz Festival, will offer afternoon festivities where attendees can enjoy food trucks, craft tents and engaging activities for all ages. On these days, the "Mobile City Hall" initiative will also offer residents easy access to information about New Rochelle's programs and services.

New Rochelle says that the "Downtown Summer Sizzle" Concert Series is part of its broader plan to enhance cultural experiences throughout the downtown area. The city partnered with PMF 97, a multimedia consultant, to organize the concert series and curate the lineup of performances.

"This exciting new series brings the community together to celebrate music, culture, and local flavor. It serves as a living demonstration of the vibrancy and creativity that thrives within our diverse and growing city," New Rochelle Council Member Ivar Hyden said. “The '2023 Downtown Summer Sizzle' showcases and brings remarkable experiences directly to our residents and provides a platform for our local artists and businesses to shine. I encourage everyone to attend and experience the lively atmosphere and the sense of pride and unity that this event brings to our beloved New Rochelle."

More information and updates on the "2023 Downtown Summer Sizzle," can be found here.