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As the weather warms up after the winter months, New York can be enjoyed alfresco again - whether it's meals out, picnics in the park, or the return of outdoor performances, there are endless ways to enjoy spring in the city.

Along with the spring blooms, the return of the outdoor markets, and the parks filling up again - outdoor concerts are one of the best parts of the better weather coming back to the city. 

Throughout the spring and summer months in New York, there are plenty of concerts and live music performances to enjoy while making the most of the longer days and warmer evenings. From performances in your favorite city park to waterfront concerts there are endless outdoor options for music lovers in New York City. 

But what are the best outdoor concerts in New York City? 

Summerstage 

Summerstage was launched 38 years ago and is a highlight for all music lovers in the city. The event is organized by the City Parks Foundation, who bring a number of free concerts to the city’s parks throughout the summer months. 

This year, Summerstage will host 85 free concerts in Central Park and 12 other neighborhood parks across the city’s five boroughs. Whether you’re into salsa, reggae, indie rock, jazz, hip-hop, pop, or afro beats - there is something for everyone to enjoy between May and October. You can find full details of their summer lineup here. 

BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival

Hosted at the Lena Horne Bandshell in Prospect Park, the BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival is New York’s longest-running, free outdoor performing arts festival. The festival was first launched 45 years ago and offers free concerts in Brooklyn all summer long. 

The first performance took place in 1979, and now the event attracts upwards of 250,000 visitors every summer. As well as live music, the event also presents dance performances, film screenings, and even virtual reality performances. 

The line-up for summer 2024 is yet to be announced, but the festival usually begins at the beginning of June with over 20 free events to enjoy over the summer. You can find more details on the lineup and upcoming events here.

The Rooftop at Pier 17

The Rooftop at Pier 17 is a unique venue offering views across the Brooklyn Bridge and East River, as well as the city skyline - which provides the perfect backdrop for some of the best outdoor concerts in New York. 

Throughout the summer the Rooftop hosts a variety of different performances from well-known artists, as well as up-and-coming bands. Enjoy a cocktail or a cold beer and head to the dancefloor. The Rooftop at Pier 17 has a capacity for 3,500 people and is open for concerts between May and October every year. You can find details of upcoming events here.

Forest Hills Stadium

The Forest Hills Stadium was first constructed in 1923 and has hosted some of the world’s biggest and best-known musicians including The Beatles and Bob Dylan. Over 100 years later the stadium is still hosting unforgettable outdoor concerts in the heart of New York City. 

Whether you’re into pop, rock, electronic, or indie - there is a wide range of different concerts to attend over the summer. Forest Hills Stadium can host up to 13,000 attendees and is the biggest outdoor venue in New York. You can find details of upcoming performances this summer here.

Coming to New York this spring or summer? The Hotel Beacon is your home away from home on the Upper West Side, providing both rooms and apartment-style suites in the heart of the city.