Published by New Jersey Stage
originally published: 03/03/2026
(FREEHOLD, NJ) -- Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul will headline a concert at ParkStage on Friday, July 17, 2026 that fans of Jersey music will love. The lineup includes Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul, Jake Clemons Band, Joe Grushecky and the Houserockers with Gary U.S. Bonds, and The Weeklings. Showtime is 4:00pm.
ParkStage is a large-scale, open-air performance venue set to debut in Summer 2026 at the East Freehold Park Fairgrounds. It is run by the Count Basie Center for the Arts in collaboration with Monmouth County Tourism
“MonmouthNJ 250: The Concert is exactly the kind of signature event that defines what ParkStage and Monmouth County are all about,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “With this incredible lineup and the launch of ParkStage, we’re creating a landmark celebration that will bring thousands of visitors to our County, ignite tourism, and deliver a strong boost to our local economy. Monmouth County is truly taking center stage this summer.”
Tickets will go on sale Friday, March 6 at 10:00am and will be available at parkstage.org and Ticketmaster.
Centrally located in one of New Jersey’s fastest-growing population corridors – with more than 2.3 million people living within a 25-mile radius – ParkStage offers easy access via all major roadways and a scenic setting that blends rural charm with modern convenience, free on-site parking and luxury VIP accommodations.
As part of Monmouth County’s exciting lineup of events to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, MonmouthNJ 250: The Concert will be one of the summer’s most anticipated celebrations. Additional event details will be announced in the coming months.
“As we mark the 250th birthday of our nation, this concert is a powerful reminder that America’s story is told not just through history books, but through music, culture and shared experiences, and here in Monmouth County, through a legacy rooted in the fight for independence,” said County Clerk Christine Hanlon. “MonmouthNJ 250: The Concert brings people together to celebrate the spirit, creativity and freedom that define our country.”
“ParkStage provides the perfect setting for a summer that honors our nation’s 250th celebration as well as the Basie Center’s 100th anniversary,” said Adam Philipson, President and CEO of the Count Basie Center of the Arts. “Monmouth County is an incredible partner to us, and hosting this concert together underscores our collective commitment to culture, community, tourism, and the arts.”
Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early, as this show is expected to sell quickly.
Previously announced shows at ParkStage include Sublime (Friday, June 19), The Head and The Heart with special guests Wilderado (Friday, June 26), and The B-52s with special guests The English Beat (Saturday, July 11).
NOTE: This concert was originally scheduled for July 3rd, but was postponed due to a heat wave.
EVENT PREVIEWS
Low Cut Connie to Celebrate Album Release at The Vogel on July 3rd
(RED BANK, NJ) -- Low Cut Connie was going to play the ParkStage show on July 3, 2026, but it was rescheduled due to the heat. Instead, he will celebrate the release of his latest album Livin' In The USA at The Vogel. Doors are at 6:30pm, showtime is 7:30pm.
Flamingosis to Bring Bright Moments 10th Anniversary Tour to Newark Culture Club
(NEWARK, NJ) -- Flamingosis is the stage name of Aaron Velasquez, a New Jersey-based DJ, beatboxer, and electronic music producer who is coming to Newark Culture Club on Friday, July 3, 2026 at 10:00pm. A special set by one world's leading DJs/producers!
The Sandbox at Seastreak presents Badfish on July 4th
(HIGHLANDS, NJ) -- Badfish is a vibe. Badfish is a sonic house party complete with plenty of gyrating fans sipping libations and enjoying various extracurricular activities. Simply put, Badfish is feel-good music. See for yourself when Badfish performs at The Sandbox at Seastreak on Saturday, July 4, 2026 at 7:00pm. It's a great way to celebrate the holiday!
Carteret PAC presents Hellfest
(CARTERET, NJ) -- Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center presents Hellfest from July 3-5, 2026 with over 18 bands performing each day! Tickets are available per day or with a three day pass.
Free Concerts to be Held Throughout 4th of July Weekend in Jersey City
(JERSEY CITY, NJ) -- Four free live music events will be held in Jersey City parks throughout the 4th of July weekend, featuring a diverse lineup of American music. The series is curated and produced by Riverview Jazz and is presented by the City of Jersey City and Exchange Place Alliance.
MPAC presents Darren Criss on July 9th
(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- Tony, Emmy and Golden Globe winner Darren Criss returns to Mayo Performing Arts Center for an all-new solo show on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at 8:00pm. Since bursting onto the pop-culture landscape over a decade ago in Fox's hit TV show Glee, Darren Criss has embodied the kind of kaleidoscopic artistry that's entirely uninhibited by form or genre.
Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Bell Bottom Blues on July 10th
(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- Bell Bottom Blues returns to the Lizzie Rose Music Room on Friday, July 10, 2026. The band was formed in 2007 with the vision of providing an audience with a true Eric Clapton Experience. Showtime is 7:30pm.
Basie Center to Honor Kate Pierson and Fred Schneider of The B-52s, Dramarama on Walk of Fame
(RED BANK, NJ) -- The Count Basie Center for the Arts will honor Kate Pierson and Fred Schneider of The B-52s and Dramarama by welcoming them onto its Walk of Fame. Pierson and Schneider will be inducted during a special ceremony on Friday, July 10, 2026 at 12:00pm, outside the historic theater in Red Bank, ahead of The B-52s’ concert at ParkStage in Freehold on Saturday, July 11. Dramarama, also performing at that concert, will be presented with a commemorative plaque at the show.
Asbury Lanes presents There, There (A Tribute to Radiohead) on July 11th
(ASBURY PARK, NJ) -- There, There (A Tribute to Radiohead) will perform at Asbury Lanes on Saturday, July 11, 2026. Doors open at 7:00pm, showtime is 8:00pm.
Newton Theatre presents Dio Rules: Tribute to Rainbow, Black Sabbath & Dio on July 11th
(NEWTON, NJ) -- One voice. Three legendary bands. One unforgettable decade of rock. DIO RULES is a powerful live concert experience celebrating the music and legacy of Ronnie James Dio, one of the most influential voices in the history of hard rock and heavy metal. See for yourself when the band comes to The Newton Theatre on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 8:00pm.
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