Jersey City’s Longest Running Concert Series Celebrates 50 Years of Free Music with Special Summer Lineup
JERSEY CITY, NJ — Mayor Steven M. Fulop and the Jersey City Office of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the Jersey City Free Public Library and Liberty State Park, are proud to announce the 50th Anniversary Season of Summerfest, the city’s iconic outdoor concert series that has brought music, culture, and community together for five decades.
The full lineup includes an exciting mix of soul, jazz, funk, R&B, Latin, Americana, gospel, and more from both nationally recognized musicians and top-tier local bands. This year’s golden anniversary kicks off with free performances through August 17, 2025:
Sundays 6–8 p.m.
North Cove Field (behind the ferry parking lot)
Tuesdays 6:30–8:30 p.m.
South Lawn (flag plaza)
“Summerfest is more than just a concert series; it’s a celebration of culture and creativity woven into the fabric of Jersey City’s identity for 50 years,” said Mayor Fulop. “We are thrilled to continue the tradition, celebrating 50 years of free live music for everyone to enjoy at Liberty State Park, one of the most beautiful venues in the state, with the skyline and Statue of Liberty as the backdrop.”
This year’s featured performers include Valarie Adams & The Dimension Band, Chico Alvarez, Epic Soul Band, The Tequila Rose Band, Kahlil Kwame Bell, Acute Inflections, and many more. The full schedule and artist details are available at jerseycityculture.org.
“Summerfest is a Jersey City tradition that reflects our vibrant and diverse community,” said Christine Goodman, Cultural Affairs Director. “We are incredibly proud to mark this milestone and to highlight such a dynamic roster of musicians who reflect the richness of our arts community. We encourage families, friends, and neighbors to come out and enjoy the music, scenery, and sense of unity that this event brings every summer.”
In addition to live music, Summerfest offers free parking, easy access to the Hudson River waterfront, and a family-friendly atmosphere ideal for picnics, summer breezes, dancing, and night strolls.
“Liberty State Park is a free people’s park, and Summerfest is a perfect way to bring people together to enjoy its unmatched open space and scenic beauty,” said Sam Pesin, President of Friends of Liberty State Park. “We are proud to be part of this partnership that honors 50 years of music, community, and public access.”
Valarie Adams, a Summerfest kickoff headlining performer, added: “It’s an honor to perform in a place as iconic as Liberty State Park for the 50th year of Summerfest. There’s nothing like the energy of this crowd and the magic of playing jazz and funk outdoors with the iconic Jersey City and NYC skyline surrounding you.”
All concerts are free and open to the public.
For more information, please visit jerseycityculture.org. In the event of inclement weather, updates will be posted on the Jersey City Office of Cultural Affairs social media platforms @JCArtCulture. Attendees are encouraged to bring snacks, lawn chairs, and blankets.
All media inquiries should be directed to Kimberly Wallace-Scalcione at [email protected].