Ready for a summer of outdoor music concerts at some of St. Louis’ most popular destinations? Look no further than our picks for a season of musical memories. Best of all, they’re free!
WHAT: CELEBRATE SAINT LOUIS
WHERE: Gateway Arch
WHEN: 4 to 9:40 p.m., July 4
This year, St. Louis’ Fourth of July celebration is taking place for one day only on Independence Day. Festivities begin at 10 a.m. with America’s Birthday Parade downtown and includes other fan-favorite events such as the airshow and, of course, fireworks.
An evening of live music under the arch begins at approximately 4 p.m. with St. Louis band FEEL, followed by rapper Lupe Fiasco and country music duo LOCASH. St. Louis’ own The Urge closes out the evening. Hang around for the Fireworks Spectacular, which is slated to begin after the concert.
WHAT: DOWNTOWN SUMMER NIGHTS
WHERE: Kiener Plaza
WHEN: 5 to 8 p.m., Thursdays in July and August
Presented by Greater St. Louis, Inc., the free outdoor event featuring live music, dance performances, movie nights and more takes place weekly through the end of August.
A sampling of the musical lineup includes DJ Mahf (July 11); DJ Nico Marie (July 25); an Olympics watch party and music by DJ Mahf (Aug. 8); and Performance Night and music by DJ Cuddy (Aug. 29).
Food trucks and pop-up bars will also be on-site. Bring your lawn chairs!
WHAT: SUMMER SERIES BY FESTIVAL OF NATIONS AND MUSIC AT THE INTERSECTION
WHERE: Grand Center
WHEN: Various times, July 28 and Sept. 8
In celebration of the diversity and richness of cultures from around the world, the Festival of Nations and Music at the Intersection are partnering for a series of events in Grand Center featuring live music, retail vendors and raffle prizes.
Artists include Indian master mixer DjK at Sophie’s Artist Lounge (July 28, 3 p.m.) and Ghanaian drummer Paa Kow at The Dark Room (Sept. 8, 5 p.m.).
The summer series is free to attend but RSVPs are recommended.
WHAT: BLUES AT THE ARCH
WHERE: Gateway Arch
WHEN: Aug. 9 and 10
The popular two-day festival, showcasing the rich history and impact of blues music, is the only one of its kind held on national park grounds.
The festival kicks off Friday evening, Aug. 9, with gospel artist Amber Bullock (5 p.m.) and blues guitarist D.K. Harrell (6:30 p.m.). Day Two on Saturday, Aug. 10, begins with St. Louis blues musician Jeremiah Johnson (12:30 p.m.), The Soulard Blues Band (2 p.m.), trombonist Lamar Harris (3:30 p.m.), local favorite Marquise Knox (5 p.m.) and R&B artist Nikki Hill (6:30 p.m.), followed by fireworks to cap off the evening.
Other family-friendly activities include a Kids Korner with a musical “petting zoo,” yard games and more – even dogs are welcome! Food and drink vendors will also be on site.
WHAT: FESTIVAL OF NATIONS
WHERE: Tower Grove Park
WHEN: Aug. 24 and 25
The popular late-summer festival attracts more than 100,000 people every year as the largest multicultural event in the region. Musical acts are among the featured entertainment that also includes visual artists and dance groups.
Headliners include St. Louis singing sensation Mai Lee, Nigerian-born artist Mannywellz, local artist and “The Voice” fan favorite Lisa Ramey and singer-songwriter Mali Music.
The festival also features food and retail vendors representing more than 75 countries.
