2024 Summer Sound Series Kicks Off June 28

Free Friday Evening Concerts Energize Downtown

NEW BEDFORD – The City’s popular Summer Sound Series is returning for 2024, bringing a wide variety of musicians and genres to the annual series of free concerts Downtown.

Presented by Mayor Jon Mitchell, the Summer Sound Series plays its opening notes on June 28 and continues every Friday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. through Sept. 6, with the exception of Aug. 2 due to the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament. The free concerts alternate between lower Union Street (between N. Water Street and Route 18) and Purchase Street (between Union and William streets), and feature participation from local organizations and restaurants.

“Summer Sound Series is one of highlights of the City’s busy summer event calendar,” Mayor Mitchell said. “These block parties help support small businesses and bring family and friends together to enjoy Downtown.”

“The City is excited to host Summer Sound Series for another year. Nothing beats an evening of local entertainment in our beautiful Downtown,” said City Council President Naomi Carney. “People come Downtown from across the City and beyond for these celebrations, so we’re looking forward to some fun evenings with our neighbors while also providing an economic boost to Downtown businesses.”

Attendees can purchase a beverage from participating establishments and watch the concerts on the street. Adding to the fun will be performances from Dr. Finnegan’s Circus before the concerts, artisan pop-ups, and a community art project with 3rd EyE Youth Unlimited.

“The Summer Sound Series has been a phenomenal success with growing crowds each year, invigorating our local economy and bringing joy to our residents,” said Explore New Bedford Director Ashley Payne, who helms the City’s tourism and marketing department. “Explore New Bedford is thrilled to see our city come alive with music, culture, and fun each Friday night thanks to the generous support of our sponsors.”

All concerts are weather permitting. Visit https://explorenewbedford.org/special-events/summer-sound-series/  for more information or to watch a highlight video from last year.

The 2024 Summer Sound Series

June 28: Felix Brown Band (R&B/Funk) – Purchase Street

July 5: Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish (Americana/Blues) – Union Street

July 12: Sugarbabies (Top 40/Dance) – Purchase Street

July 19: Pearly Baker (Grateful Dead/Roots) – Union Street

July 26: East Coast Soul (Soul/R&B) – Purchase Street

Aug. 9: Colby James and the Ramblers (Roots/Rock) – Union Street

Aug. 16: Gina and the Red Eye Flight Crew (R&B/Soul) – Purchase Street

Aug. 23: Fast Times 80’s Music (80’s) – Union Street

Aug. 30: JAMMIN’ A Tribute to Bob Marley (Reggae) – Purchase Street

Sept. 6: Neal Vitullo Band (Rock) – Union Street

Sponsors: WPRI-12 (Lead Sponsor), Moby Dick Brewing Company, ServedWell Hospitality, New Bedford Light, Vibra

Participating Restaurants for Purchase Street: No Problemo, The Pour Farm Tavern, DNB Craft Kitchen, The Vault

Participating Restaurants for Union Street: Play, Cultivator Shoals, Moby Dick Brewing Company, New Beige, Whaler’s Tavern, Rose Alley Ale House, Cork