Summer is time to do just about anything outside, especially taking in some great music. Whether you like to listen and lounge or hit the dance floor, there are lots of local spots to check out.
Head to downtown Easton for their annual concert series happening many Saturdays in the summer right on Harrison Street, near the Tidewater Inn. They’ll feature artists specializing in everything from 80’s dance music to R&B to rock to country. Starting at 7 p.m., you’ll want to bring a chair and your own food to have a relaxed evening. Visit the avalonfoundation.org for more details.
Of course, to talk music in Easton would be remiss without mentioning the Avalon and the popular artists they attract, so while not outside you could certainly grab a nice meal al fresco before heading in to see a show at the iconic 1920’s theater.
Queen Anne’s County Arts Council hosts a steady concert series, “Thursdays in the Park.”
Every other Thursday, a variety of bands will start at 7p.m., at either the Matapeake Beach Clubhouse, Cascia Winery, the Cray Green House or Kent Island Resort. You can find a full listing of music and location on visitqueenanne.com.
Layton’s Chance Winery in Vienna has two concert series. Its Summer Concert series are Saturday nights, with bands that encourage the crowd to get out of their lawn chair and dance. On Sunday afternoons, they host their “Wine and Unwind” series that is a smaller act for you to relax and enjoy from one of their rocking chairs and listen while you catch up with friends and sip on one of their wines — or wine slushies!
If you are looking for a great spot to not only watch fireworks this Fourth of July but to make a whole night of it, head down to Big Band Night at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels.
On July 1, they’ll have a great waterfront spot to watch the Shades of Blue Orchestra and the fireworks on your blanket or chair.
Every Thursday until the end of August, the St. Michaels Community Center holds its “Concerts in the Park” series, beginning at 5:30 p.m. in Muskrat Park. Visit stmichaelscc.org for a full lineup of bands.
If you missed the fireworks on Independence Day, enjoy an encore at the Music on the Nanticoke Free Summer Concert Series in Vienna, where they’ll have fireworks at their July 15th concert featuring Charlie & The Cool Tones with oldies and classic rock.
Also in the warm summer nights of July is the Tuckahoe Steam and Gas Show, celebrating it’s 50th year July 6-9. As always, there will be live music under the large pavilion on Friday and Saturday nights. Come back Sunday morning for their outdoor church sermon and gospel music while you eat a hearty breakfast. Don’t forget your dancing boots!
Oxford Community Center will have two “Happy Hour” concerts this year, with Rosewood on Aug. 5 and Rising Tide Aug. 12, both from 5-7 p.m. and requiring a $10 ticket. Enjoy the music and then mull around the picturesque downtown and enjoy an upscale meal (or ice cream!)
Our local county fairs bring some good entertainment. The Queen Anne Fair in Centreville, held this year Aug. 7-12, will have acts at 4:30 p.m. on some evenings to include the Bay Country Gentlemen on Wednesday, the Jones Boys on Thursday, and Justin Singleton on Friday.
Soak in the late carefree days of summer in August with Denton’s 34th Annual Summerfest celebration. This year’s “Back to Bedrock” theme will happen on Aug. 18-19 and will feature street music among lots of other family friendly entertainment, like a car show and bounce houses for children.
Aside from festivals and local organizations, many local restaurants and bars also have live music regularly, so be sure to check in on your favorite.
Corah’s Corner of St. Michael’s has some great bands to listen to while you munch on their street corn as does Foxy’s over an orange crush.
Tolchester Marina in Chestertown offers a great spot to sit on the beach for their large beachfront concerts. If you are looking for an adults’ night out, Kent Island has many bands at their bars and restaurants to include Big Owl’s Tiki Bar, The Jetty, Red Eyes and the newly opened Dock House.
Music and sunshine are great additions to any summer, so boost your mood instantly with both at the same time!