It’s summertime in Miami, and one of the best ways to spend it is to kick back at a park or amphitheater and listen to incredible musical performances. Whatever your music taste, many parks, organizations, museums and orchestras have put together a series of concerts and other entertainment like festivals — all at no cost to attend. If music is on your summer bucket list, grab a blanket and head to the following free concerts taking place in Miami (so far!):
1. Miami Beach OnStage!
While Miami Beach OnStage! presents free movies and dance performances, there are plenty of concerts throughout the city to attend as well! You can find free events during the summer months at Lummus Park, Normandy Fountain Plaza, Collins Park and Altos del Mar Park. See the lineup below:
- August 12 – Javier Garcia at 2200 Liberty Avenue – 7 p.m.
- September 3 – Gafieira Rio Miami at Normandy Fountain Plaza – 7 p.m.
2. Ocean Drive Promenade Music Series
Every Sunday, music lovers can catch a resident-centric and family-friendly concert series, presented by the Ocean Drive Association. Performances take place at Lummus Park between 14th Street and 14th Place, and if it rains, the location moves inside The Betsy Hotel lobby. Remember to bring your folding chairs, blankets and even set up a picnic!
- July 30 – Closing Concert: Encore Broadway, Zarzuela and Opera – 6 p.m.
- August 6 – Torch Songs for the Tragically Hip featuring Amy Arlo and friends – 6 p.m.
- August 13 – Brasoul featuring Paloma Dueñas – 6 p.m.
- August 20 – Davis and Dow Jazz Quartet – 6 p.m.
- August 27 – Joel DaSilva Roots Music Trio – 6 p.m.
3. Vivo! Dolphin Mall
Dolphin Mall’s newest entertainment destination, Vivo!, features an open-air plaza and stage for concerts and other musical events held almost every night. Here are upcoming performers:
- July 26 – The W’s – 7 p.m.
- July 28 – The Melbourne’s – 7 p.m.
- July 29 – Tairon Aguilera – 7 p.m.
- July 30 – Kouture Funk – 7 p.m.
- August 2 – Tori & Will – 7 p.m.
- August 3 – Gio Beta – 7 p.m.
- August 4 – Joe Young – 7 p.m.
- August 5 – Tairon Aguilera – 7 p.m.
- August 6 – Joe Young – 7 p.m.
- August 9 – The W’s – 7 p.m.
- August 10 – Gio Beta – 7 p.m.
- August 11 – Ariel Rose – 7 p.m.
- August 12 – Tairon Aguilera – 7 p.m.
- August 13 – Joe Young – 7 p.m.
- August 16 – Seva Omar – 7 p.m.
- August 17 – Tairon Aguilera – 7 p.m.
4. Jazz at MOCA
On the last Friday of every month, the Museum of Contemporary Art is home to free outdoor concerts (rain or shine, which makes them perfect for Miami’s summer weather). MOCA galleries are also open by donation from 7 to 10 p.m. Check out upcoming concerts below:
- July 28 – Lisanne Lyons – 8 p.m.
- August 25 – Scone Cash Players – 8 p.m.
5. Miami Beach Bandshell
You’ll find over 100 events at the Bandshell year-round, from concerts to movies to the best in dance. This season, you’ll find the following concerts for free with RSVP:
- September 16 – Miami Beach Salsa Fest – 6 p.m.
- September 21 – Son Rompe Pera – 7 p.m.
6. Alhambra Orchestra
Jointly presented with MDCA, this free season opener takes place this summer and features Spanish and Spanish-influenced favorites including Ravel’s Bolero, the “Ritual Fire Dance” from DeFalla’s El Amor Brujo, and Danzon No. 2 by Marquez. Enjoy a live performance by a full symphony orchestra presenting beloved masterpieces inspired by the culture of Spain.
- September 23 – Hispanic Heritage Concert Celebration at the Miami-Dade County Auditorium – 7:30 p.m.