Held at scenic venues throughout the region, these events showcase a rich mix of musical talent and create memorable moments in the heart of the Adirondacks. Many of the venues are set alongside the region’s lakes and rivers, making them easily accessible to boaters, adding a splash of adventure to the experience.

Scheduled in the late afternoon or early evening, the concerts also offer prime views of Adirondack sunsets–a perfect backdrop for a picnic and some live music. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks to settle in and soak up the scene.

With genres ranging from folk to jazz and everything in between, summer concerts offer something for every musical taste. These performances are more than just entertainment–they provide meaningful opportunities for local artists to gain exposure and play in front of a live audience. Residents benefit from the community-building atmosphere, while visitors get to experience the culture and charm of Adirondack life in a laid-back, open-air setting.

Sydney Aveson, communications coordinator for the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism, said, “Outdoor concerts are one of the best parts of summer in the Adirondacks. They bring people together in beautiful places and highlight the vibrant energy of our communities. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, there’s nothing quite like listening to live music as the sun goes down over the water.”

The region offers other opportunities to enjoy live music outdoors, in addition to the scheduled concert series. Third Thursday Art Walks in Saranac Lake, held monthly from June through September, fill the village streets with music from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

— Jay: JEMS Music on the Green / at the Amos & Julia Ward Theatre each Thursday evening at 7 p.m., beginning in May.

— Lake Placid: The Songs at Mirror Lake music series runs every Tuesday from 7 to 9 p.m. in July and August at Mid’s Park Bandshell on Main Street. The Lake Placid Sinfonietta Park Series also takes place at Mid’s Park on Wednesdays from July 9 to August 13.

— Long Lake: Music by the Lake takes place at the Long Lake Town Beach on Fridays from 6 to 8 p.m., beginning July 11.

— Saranac Lake: Enjoy Music on the Green at Riverside Park bandshell by Lake Flower on Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. Hotel Saranac’s Downtown Music Series takes place at Berkeley Green on Fridays from 6 to 8 p.m., followed by an indoor concert at the Great Hall Bar from 8 to 10 p.m. The Northern Current Community Music Festival takes place at Riverside Park on Aug. 31 from noon to 9:30 p.m.

— Tupper Lake: The Summer Sunset Series at Flanders Park runs each Monday and Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m., starting July 7, along the shores of Raquette Pond.

— Wilmington: Free live music on Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. at Wilmington Town Beach, also known as Lake Everest. The Wilmington Mountain Music Festival is set for July 26 from 3 to 11 p.m. at Wilmington Ball Park–tickets are on sale now.

Music is part of many summer experiences. In addition to these community concerts, many of the region’s farmers’ markets also feature live performances, adding extra fun to weekly outings and shopping trips. Visit AdirondackHarvest.com for a full list of farmers markets in the Adirondacks.