Enjoying the Arts Outdoors this Summer

Summer is almost here, and that means that the rhythms of jazz will soon lead you to Lincoln Square. For the third year in a row, the Lincoln Square BID’s highly successful Summer Jazz Sensations concert series will return to Dante Park (Broadway and W 64th Street) every Wednesday from noon to 1:30pm between June 19 and September 18, 2024.

This year, the series, curated by saxophonist Eric Person, will be bigger and better than ever, featuring a total of 14 performances. Come with friends or make new ones at each show. Every note promises to be a celebration of music, summer joy, and the Lincoln Square neighborhood. This summer’s series will include the following performers:

June 19: Dave Stryker
June 26: Shirley Crabbe 
July 3: Bill Ware
July 10: Steve Kroon
July 17: Pat Bianchi
July 24: Eric Walentowicz
July 31: Lezlie Harrison
August 7: Gabriele Tranchina
August 14: Kenny Davis
August 21: Ron Jackson
August 28: Duane Eubanks Quartet
September 4: David Janeway Quintet
September 11: Cynthia Scott
September 18: Eric Person & Rhythm Edge

These weekly concerts are also a perfect opportunity to explore the district – grab lunch locally, shop, and see all that Lincoln Square has to offer – right before or after you hear some incredible music. For ideas on the area’s culinary and cultural offerings, check out our robust Neighborhood Guide. Best of all, at some of the performances, local eateries will have treats available for purchase (stay tuned for more information).

If you are looking for more ways to enjoy free and low-cost performances this summer, you’re in luck! Lincoln Center’s Summer for the City will include hundreds of events featuring thousands of artists from June 12 through August 10. On Friday, June 21 (the summer solstice and the longest day of the year!), Make Music New York will also put on hundreds of small concerts citywide, one of which will be hosted by Council Member Gale Brewer from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at Balsley Park (9th Avenue at W 57th Street).

Throughout the summer, walk just to the west of Lincoln Square to enjoy Summer on the Hudson, NYC Parks' annual outdoor arts and culture festival that takes place in Riverside Park from 59th Street to 153rd Street. With a mix of music concerts, dance performances, movies under the stars, DJ dance parties, kids' shows, special events, wellness activities, and more, there is something for everyone! Or, check out the City Parks Foundation’s Summerstage 2024. The outdoor performing arts festival will bring 85 free and benefit shows to Central Park and 12 neighborhood parks across the five boroughs.

We look forward to seeing you each week this summer in Dante Park and at other events around the neighborhood!

Special thanks to City Council Member Gale Brewer and the City Council for supporting the Summer Jazz Sensations concert series.

Photo Credit: Elena Olivo