NJ Music Festivals & Free Outdoor Concerts: 2025 Guide

Guide to New Jersey Outdoor Music Festivals. rock, country, jazz

From lively park shows to big acts at major spots, New Jersey brings music fans plenty of choices. Whether you’re into jazz, rock, or local bands, you’ll find something special from street fairs to boardwalk concerts.

Check out these highlights for outdoor music shows NJ has lined up in Northern New Jersey this summer:

Northern New Jersey 2025 Summer Music Events

Millburn’s Rocktoberfest
September 13, 2025, 12pm–10pm, Taylor Park, 100 Main Street, Millburn, NJ
Admission: Free
This all-day festival features over 30 bands and solo artists on multiple stages, food, shopping, drinks, and a packed kids’ zone with rides, games, and creative activities for all ages.

Montclair Jazz Festival Jamboree
Saturday, September 13, 2025, 1pm–9pm, Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ
Suggested Donation: $15 | No ticket required
Eight hours of live jazz performances spotlight world-class musicians. The event includes food, vendors, and is open to all. This year’s headliner is Christian McBride, a nine-time GRAMMY® winner.

Hoboken Fall Arts & Music Festival
Sunday, October 12, 2025, 11am–6pm, Washington St (Observer Highway to 7th St), Hoboken, NJ
Admission: Free
The streets fill with two stages of live music, art, food, and family activities. The festival showcases talented local performers and artists, while also supporting the creative community and small businesses in Hoboken.

Free Summer Concerts Across New Jersey

Summer brings a wave of free outdoor music shows NJ locals and visitors love. Every corner of the state lights up with “free concerts near me” from urban parks to the beach towns. Enjoy top talent, unique beats, and community spirit—all without opening your wallet.

North Jersey
The north side has a lively mix of jazz, rock, and global music. The Essex County Summer Concert Series pops up in scenic parks, and Jersey City’s Summer Fest at Liberty State Park offers tunes with skyline views.

Central & South Jersey
Central towns host live music in charming downtowns, like Cranford’s Summer Sounds series. Along the southern coast, boardwalks like Wildwood and Cape May host evening shows just steps from the sand.

When you head out, bring blankets and chairs for comfort. Pack snacks or a picnic. Parking can fill up fast, so public transit like NJ Transit may save time. Always check event websites or social channels before you go for any weather updates.

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 Central Jersey Music Festivals and South Jersey Music Festivals guides.

Enjoy the music and let every summer night become a memorable one!

Last Minute Tickets; Concerts and Entertainment

Need a ticket at the last second? Check out schedules for concerts, shows, and big events—many venues still have seats.


Note: All of our ticket partners are legitimate, official, recommended ticket sellers and guaranteed to sell you official tickets.
Affiliate Disclosure: Many of the links on this page are affiliate links, meaning if you click through them and buy tickets, I receive a commission at no cost to you. This money helps support my site, and I do my best to use the profits to provide you with as much detail and free information about New Jersey leisure activities as I am able.