Published by New Jersey Stage
originally published: 07/06/2026
Justin Pope of The Swiss Guard(WEST WINDSOR, NJ) -- West Windsor Arts is kicking off another season of free, family-friendly entertainment with the return of its popular Summer Music and More concert series. This year's series features three evenings of live music, local talent and hands-on art activities for all ages, offering the perfect way to enjoy summer with family, friends and neighbors.
All performances will take place at Nassau Park Pavilion, behind Panera Bread at 510 Nassau Park Blvd. in Princeton. Each concert begins at 5:00pm with an opening performance by acclaimed cellist Dan Kassel and Friends, followed by the evening's featured headliner at 6:00pm. Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnics and enjoy a relaxed evening of music and creativity outdoors.
"We're excited to welcome the community back for another season of Summer Music and More," said Aylin Green, Executive Director of West Windsor Arts. "These concerts bring people together through music, art and shared experiences. Whether you're coming to hear a favorite band, discover a new artist or create art with your family, there's something for everyone."
Saturday, July 18 - Briz and the Revival (5:00pm–7:00pm). Blending soulful vocals, vibrant rhythms and heartfelt musicianship, Briz and the Revival create an uplifting and energetic live experience rooted in connection, joy and authenticity. Fronted by singer-songwriter Brandi "Briz" Grove, the band draws on influences from folk, rock and soul to deliver performances equally suited for dancing or simply soaking in the music.
Opening the evening will be Dan Kassel and Friends featuring John Beacher, a celebrated New Hope–based singer-songwriter whose blend of folk, blues and Americana has earned him a loyal following throughout the region.
Saturday, August 8- The Swiss Guard (5:00pm–7:00pm). Known for their dynamic performances and crowd-pleasing mix of classic rock, pop favorites and sing-along anthems, The Swiss Guard brings high-energy entertainment and polished musicianship to every stage. Led by vocalist and guitarist Justin Pope, the Delaware Valley–based band is known for creating a lively atmosphere that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.
Opening the concert will be Dan Kassel and Friends featuring Greg McGarvey, whose thoughtful acoustic compositions and Americana-inspired sound create an intimate and engaging musical experience.
Saturday, August 29 - Johnny Zarfati (5:00pm–7:00pm). Cape May–based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Johnny Zarfati closes out the series with a performance that blends folk, rock, blues and Americana influences. Known for his expressive guitar work, warm vocals and engaging stage presence, Zarfati creates a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with audiences of all ages.
The evening opens with Dan Kassel and Friends featuring Chris Smirnov, an accomplished violinist whose versatility and expressive style help create a unique strings-driven performance that pushes the boundaries of traditional chamber music.
In addition to live music, free art activities will be offered at each event, giving children and adults the opportunity to explore their creativity while enjoying the performances.
The Summer Music and More series is proudly sponsored by Bridge33 and reflects West Windsor Arts' ongoing commitment to making arts experiences accessible, engaging and welcoming for the entire community.
For more information and event updates, visit www.westwindsorarts.org/events.
West Windsor Arts offers art and cultural events, workshops and classes for all ages and abilities at its art center and throughout the community. Through visual, performing and literary arts programming, West Windsor Arts inspires creativity, learning and connection.
EVENT PREVIEWS
Essex County Summer Orchestra Players present "Made in America" on August 2nd
(LIVINGSTON, NJ) -- As local residents and friends stroll, bike or jog around the Livingston Oval on Tuesday evenings this July, musicians from several community orchestras are gathering in the township's high school band room to celebrate works "Made in America."
New Jersey Symphony to Make Rowan's Marie Rader Series Debut with "Life & Liberty" on July 22nd
(GLASSBORO, NJ) -- The Marie Rader Series will launch its 2026-27 season, entitled "Life & Liberty," with the New Jersey Symphony's Rowan University debut. On Wednesday, July 22, 2026, New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players featuring Rowan University Strings Faculty & Alumni will perform at Pfleeger Concert Hall. Showtime is 7:00pm.
The Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Blues For Greeny and the music of Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac
(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- The Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Blues For Greeny - The Music of Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. Dude Cervantes & The Panchos will open the night. Doors are at 7:00pm, music starts at 7:30pm.
Shinedown to Play Shows in Newark and Philly in July
(NEWARK, NJ) -- One of the biggest bands in the world, Shinedown, will be releasing their brand new studio album EI8HT on May 29, 2026 (via Atlantic Records) and released the new song "Outlaw." In addition, they announced their massive Dance Kid Dance Act II World Tour, taking the band to 11 countries across 54 dates, including local stops at Prudential Center in Newark on Tuesday, July 21st and Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia on Thursday, July 23rd.
Middletown Arts Center presents Reina Williams + The Remedy
(MIDDLETOWN, NJ) -- The Middletown Arts Center presents a concert featuring Reina Williams + The Remedy on Thursday, July 23, 2026. Special guest performers Renee Maskin and Patrick Bamburak will open the show. Enjoy an evening of original music spanning reggae, hip-hop, soul, folk, Americana, and indie rock from some of New Jersey's most talented musicians. Showtime is 7:00pm.
Harmonium Choral Society presents "I Dreamed Last Night" on July 23rd
(MADISON, NJ) -- On Thursday, July 23, 2026, Harmonium Choral Society presents I Dreamed Last Night. Directed by Lennie Watts with music direction by John Fischer, I Dreamed Last Night is a one woman show with Gloria Bangiola. There are songs and stories about dreams, hopes, wishes, ambitions, fantasies, nightmares, impossibilities and that big ol' American one we are all still working to make real. Showtime is 7:00pm.
HOT 97's Summer Jam 2026 to Take Place July 24th at Prudential Center
(NEWARK, NJ) -- HOT 97, New York's #1 station for Hip Hop, is once again bringing the culture's biggest night back to the tri-state area with Summer Jam 2026, on Friday, July 24, 2026, at Prudential Center in Newark. Produced by The Black Promoters Collective, Summer Jam continues its legacy as the most iconic Hip Hop concert in the world.
Summer Jazz: Drummer Joe Farnsworth and Special Guests at William Paterson
For more than three decades, Joe Farnsworth has been one of the most admired drummers in modern jazz, revered for his superb technique, driving swing, and unwavering commitment to the jazz tradition. A Massachusetts native mentored by legendary drummers Alan Dawson, Arthur Taylor, and Jimmy Lovelace, Farnsworth has appeared on nearly 400 recordings and performed with an astonishing array of jazz masters, including McCoy Tyner, Benny Golson, Pharoah Sanders, Cedar Walton, Harold Mabern, and Wynton Marsalis. He is also a founding member of the acclaimed hard bop collective, One for All, alongside longtime musical associates tenor saxophonist Eric Alexander, trombonist Steve Davis, the late trumpeter Jim Rotondi, and pianist David Hazeltine.
Grammy-Winning Superstars Erica Campbell and Jonathan McReynolds to Headline 2026 Gospel Music Festival
(NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ) -- Middlesex County, as part of its FolkLIVE free community event series, will host its third annual Gospel Music Festival in New Brunswick (2 Livingston Ave) on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 3:30pm to 7:30pm. This year's star-studded lineup features multi-Grammy-winning performer Erica Campbell—known both for her solo work and as part of the dynamic "Mary Mary" duo—and Billboard chart-topper Jonathan McReynolds as the headliners.
Mahwah Museum Hosts "Unlock the Fretboard" Guitar Workshop with Mark Sganga on July 25th
(MAHWAH, NJ) -- Guitar players of all levels are invited to "Unlock the Fretboard," a hands-on guitar workshop taking place on Saturday, July 25, from 11:00am to 2:00pm, with a short break included, at The Mahwah Museum. The workshop will be taught by Mark Sganga, an International Fingerstyle Guitar Champion, bringing expert instruction and high-level musicianship to this special event. Designed to help players better understand the fretboard through a system of caged chords and scales, the workshop offers practical strategies that participants can apply immediately in their playing.
FEATURED EVENTS
