Looking for something easy (and free) to do with the kids this summer? Erie’s free concert series are one of my favorite go-to plans.
From big waterfront shows to smaller neighborhood concerts, here’s your updated list for summer 2026.
Updated April 17, 2026
Plan more summer fun
Looking for even more family fun around Erie? These guides will help:
UPMC Sunset Music Series (Presque Isle – Beach 11)
- When: Wednesdays, June 17 – July 22, 2026
- Time: 5:30 PM to sunset
- Where: Presque Isle State Park, Beach 11
- More info
Two bands, food trucks, and sunset views — one of the best nights of the week in Erie.
8 Great Tuesdays (Liberty Park)
- When: Tuesdays July 7-Aug. 25
- Time: 6:30 PM
- Where: Liberty Park (Rebich Investments Amphitheater)
- More info
A longtime Erie favorite with a mix of local and regional bands.
814 Concert Series (Various Parks)
- When: Select dates in July and August
- Where: Rotating parks including Baker Field, Bayview Park, and Wayne Park
- More info
Smaller, neighborhood-style concerts that are easy with kids.
Tunes & Brews (Poverty Knob Farmhouse Ales)
- When: Wednesdays in June & July
- Time: 6 PM – 9 PM
- Where: Poverty Knob Farmhouse Ales
- More info
Laid-back, family-friendly, and dog-friendly with plenty of space to spread out
Special 2026 Highlight
America250PA Concert featuring The Fray
- Where: Erie Insurance Arena
A rare free, big-name concert tied to the 250th anniversary celebration.
Music in the Woods at Asbury Woods
- When: Mondays, June 1 through July 27th
- Time: 6 PM – 8 PM
- Where: Asbury Woods Nature Center
- More info
One of the most family-friendly series in Erie — bring a chair, grab food from a truck, and let the kids explore. $5 suggested donation.
Whitford Park Summer Concert Series
- When: Wednesdays at 7 p.m. June 10 through Aug. 19
- Where: Whitford Park
- More info
A smaller neighborhood concert series with a relaxed, local feel.
Music in the Park (Lake Erie Community Park)
- When: Wednesday nights starting at 7 p.m. June 17-Aug. 19
- Where: Lake Erie Community Park
- More info
Another great local option with a smaller, easygoing neighborhood concert feel.
Still to be announced:
- Erie Philharmonic Hometown Series
- WQLN Sounds Around Town
- Midday Art Break (Erie Art Museum)
Tips for going with kids
- Bring chairs or a blanket
- Pack layers — it cools off fast
- Arrive early for parking at popular spots
- Expect food trucks at many events
