2025
Central New Jersey Music Festivals & Free Summer Concerts Guide
Experience the energy of Central New Jersey’s summer scene at outdoor music festivals and free live shows. Whether you’re into big name acts or want to check out talented local bands, summer in Central Jersey brings it all together under the sun—or the stars.
Outdoor Music Shows NJ: What to Expect in 2025
Central New Jersey stands out with a wide range of NJ music festivals each summer. You’ll find small, community park events that highlight local talent. There are also larger concerts at well-known venues, some ticketed and some free, that bring in international acts. No matter your taste, there’s plenty of chance to enjoy great tunes while exploring new neighborhoods or hitting your favorite Jersey Shore spots.
Here are some big events and free concert series scheduled for summer 2025:
Featured Central NJ 2025 Summer Festivals
Central Jersey Jazz Festival
September 13-14, 2025
Historic Stangl Road, Flemington’s Artisans District & Somerset County Courthouse Green, Downtown Somerville
Admission: Free – Lawn seating, bring your chair or blanket
Top jazz artists perform across two outdoor NJ music venues.
Sea.Hear.Now Festival
September 13-14, 2025
North Beach and Bradley Park, Asbury Park, NJ
This festival pairs live performances with surf and art. Over 25 bands on three stages by the Asbury waterfront.
Middlesex County Jazz Festival
September 24, 26, 27, and 28, 2025
Carteret, New Brunswick, Metuchen, Woodbridge, NJ
Jazz concerts across several towns, promoting live music and community spirit.
Asbury Park PorchFest
Saturday, September 27, 2025
Asbury Park, NJ
Over 600 live performances by local artists. Enjoy music genres from Americana to Broadway, all for a good cause. Fold-up chairs and water are recommended.
Asbury Park Halloween Food Truck and Music Festival
Saturday, October 25, 2025
Asbury Park, NJ
This family event is a celebration of food, music, and Halloween. The festival will feature 20 gourmet food trucks, live music performed by three bands, two Halloween costume contests, a endor shopping Village, and an adult beverage garden.
More New Jersey Music Festivals
New Jersey is filled with music all summer long. Plan a night out with friends or family and soak in the local talent. For more on NJ music festivals and New Jersey summer concerts including other regions, check out the North Jersey Music Festivals and South Jersey Music Festivals guides.Enjoy the music and let every summer night become a memorable one!
Last Minute Concerts and Entertainment. Need a ticket at the last second?
Check out schedules for concerts, shows, and big events—many venues still have seats.
