Whether you're into toe-tapping tunes by the beach or soulful blues on the bayou, Pensacola offers a diverse range of live, outdoor music options to suit every taste. You’ll find several free concert series from spring to fall in the Pensacola area. Here's a glimpse into some of the hottest spots to catch a live music performance along the waterfront in the Pensacola area:
Bands on the Beach
Pensacola’s most well known outdoor music event is Bands on the Beach. Every Tuesday night during the summer months, Pensacola Beach comes alive with free concerts featuring a variety of genres, from classic rock to country and everything in between. Sponsored by the Santa Rosa Island Authority, Bands on the Beach begins at 7 pm the first Tuesday in April and runs weekly through the last week of October. Bring a beach chair, grab a cold drink, and watch the sunset over Pensacola Beach at the Gulfside Pavilion by Pensacola Beach’s icon beach ball. May’s dates for Bands on the Beach are May 7th, 14th, 21str, and 28th but the event runs every Tuesday through October in 2024. View the Bands on the Beach schedule here: https://www.sria-fla.com/calendar?department=1346
Bands on the Blackwater
Head north to the small town of Milton in Santa Rosa County to historic Downtown Milton, where the serene Blackwater River sets the stage for another fantastic musical experience. Bands on the Blackwater, held on Friday nights from spring to fall with a short break in summer, offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a long week. Whether you prefer folk, bluegrass, or Americana, you'll find something to love as you tap your feet to the rhythm of the river. Bands on the Blackwater is sponsored by the City of Milton, and runs from early April to the end of June and then picks back up for the fall season at the end of August through the end of October. May’s dates for Bands on the Blackwater are May 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, and 31st but check their website for the full 2024 schedule. View the Bands on the Blackwater schedule here: https://www.miltonfl.org/427/Bands-on-the-Blackwater
Bands on the Bayou
Venture to historic East Hill to experience the unique charm of Bands on the Bayou. Located in a picturesque waterfront settings along Bayou Texar, these intimate concerts showcase local talent against a backdrop of the bayou. It's the perfect opportunity to discover emerging artists and immerse yourself in the rich musical tapestry of Pensacola's diverse community. Brought to you by the East Hill Neighborhood Association, Bands on the Bayou is holding three free, outdoor concerts this year. Bands on the Bayou will be held on May 24, July 27th and October 5th in 2024. View the Bands on the Bayou schedule here: https://www.bandsonthebayou.com/
Blues on the Bay
Head to Downtown Pensacola for Blues on the Bay! Held monthly from 6-8 pm at the Community Maritime Park Amphitheater overlooking Pensacola Bay, this hometown concert series is sponsored by Blue Angels Music. Grab a spot on the lawn, sip on a cold beer, and let the electrifying performances transport you to the heart of the Mississippi Delta. Blues on the Bay will be held on May 5th and 19th, June 2nd and 30th, and July 7th in 2024. View the Blues on the Bay schedule here: https://www.facebook.com/bluesonthebaypensacola/
Whether you're a visitor or a longtime resident, Pensacola's live music scene offers a little something for everyone, and what better venue is there than an open-air concert in a serene waterfront setting? Better yet, all these music events are free and open to the public. From beachside bliss to bayou blues, the sounds of Pensacola are sure to leave you wanting an encore.
