Freehold is about to get a whole lot louder. ParkStage is a brand-new open-air concert venue at the East Freehold Park Showgrounds, brought to life by Monmouth County Tourism and the nonprofit Count Basie Center for the Arts. Think big outdoor shows, great food and drinks, free parking, and a killer lineup of artists all summer long.
Whether you’re into jam bands, indie rock, or classic new wave, there’s something here for you.
Here’s a look at every show announced so far.
Sublime (with Pepper, The Movement & Codefendants)
Friday, June 19
Kicking off the summer in a big way. Sublime’s sun-soaked blend of ska, punk, and reggae has been a staple of warm-weather playlists for decades, and they’re bringing a stacked undercard with them. Pepper brings their own brand of island-flavored rock, The Movement adds smooth reggae vibes, and Codefendants round things out with raw punk energy. This one’s going to be a party from start to finish.
Dark Star Orchestra
Saturday, June 20
If you’re a Deadhead — or even just Dead-curious — Dark Star Orchestra is the real deal. They don’t just play Grateful Dead songs; they recreate full setlists from specific shows throughout the Dead’s history, note for note. It’s a deeply immersive experience that pulls you right into the magic of a vintage Dead concert. Expect extended jams, deep cuts, and a crowd that knows every word.
Umphrey’s McGee, moe., Pigeons Playing Ping Pong & Lotus
Sunday, June 21
This is a jam band fan’s dream bill, plain and simple. Four bands, one afternoon, and a whole lot of improvisation. Umphrey’s McGee brings their razor-sharp progressive rock jams, moe. delivers their signature blend of groove and grit, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong keeps the energy sky-high with funky, feel-good sets, and Lotus fills in the gaps with their electronic-infused instrumental soundscapes. Clear your schedule for this one.
The Head and the Heart (with Wilderado)
Friday, June 26
Seattle indie-folk favorites The Head and the Heart have been crafting warm, sing-along anthems for over a decade. Their blend of heartfelt vocals, lush harmonies, and acoustic-driven arrangements makes them perfect for an outdoor summer evening. Opener Wilderado brings a similar blend of feel-good indie rock that pairs nicely with the headliner. A great date night pick.
Little Steven and The Disciples of Soul & Friends
Friday, July 3
What better way to kick off the Fourth of July weekend than with a Jersey legend? Little Steven Van Zandt — guitarist for the E Street Band, actor, radio host, and all-around rock and roll icon — brings his Disciples of Soul to Freehold for what’s sure to be a celebration. Expect a big, bold sound rooted in rock, soul, R&B, and horn-driven grooves, plus the possibility of some special guests popping up. This is as Jersey as it gets.
The B-52s (with The English Beat)
Saturday, July 11
“Love Shack,” “Rock Lobster,” “Roam” — you know the songs, you love the songs, and they’re even better live. The B-52s are one of the most fun, colorful, and unapologetically joyful bands to ever hit a stage. Add in The English Beat, whose ska and new wave classics are the perfect warm-up, and you’ve got a night of pure good times ahead.
Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit (with Patty Griffin)
Friday, July 31
Jason Isbell is one of the best songwriters working today, full stop. His blend of Americana, Southern rock, and raw, confessional storytelling has earned him multiple Grammy Awards and a devoted following. Backed by the 400 Unit — one of the tightest bands in the business — his live shows hit hard and stick with you. Opener Patty Griffin is a revered singer-songwriter in her own right, making this a double bill that any fan of great writing should not miss.
Lake Street Dive (with The Dip)
Saturday, August 1
Closing out the announced lineup (so far) is Lake Street Dive, a band that blends pop, soul, jazz, and rock into something completely their own. Lead singer Rachael Price has one of the most captivating voices in music right now, and the band’s arrangements are tight, funky, and endlessly catchy. The Dip opens with their own brand of vintage soul and R&B. A perfect way to wrap up a summer of live music.
Tickets for all ParkStage shows are available now through Ticketmaster. For more details on the venue, ticket options, and FAQs, head to parkstage.org.
