Summer in New York has an energy like no other season, as millions of people take to the streets to appreciate the warm weather, the city’s parks, the seemingly-endless street fairs, the restaurants offering al fresco dining, and the excitement that fills the city. However, perhaps even more exciting are the city’s summer concerts, with some of the world’s most innovative and celebrated musicians hosting shows at the city’s iconic venues this summer. Not sure what show to check out? We’ve rounded up the best summer concerts in New York City this summer:
The Governors Ball: Now celebrating its seventh year, The Governors Ball Music Festival is a weekend-long celebration of music that takes place annually on Randall’s Island. This year, the concert takes place from June 1st through the 3rd, with headliners including Jack White, Travis Scott, Eminem, and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Also performing at this year’s show are acts including 2 Chainz, the Dirty Projectors, Sylvan Esso, Cut Copy, Post Malone, Chvrches, Shawn Mendes, Halsey, N.E.R.D., and The Gaslight Anthem.
Britney Spears: After five years performing in Las Vegas, Britney Spears is once again on tour, performing at Radio City Music Hall in Manhattan on July 23rd and 24th. While fans have just two nights to catch this pop icon on stage, those lucky enough to get tickets will undoubtedly get to hear her hits, including “Baby One More Time,” “Toxic,” and “Oops, I Did It Again,” all of which have become part of her regular stage repertoire.
Decemberists and M. Ward: For those who love indie music, this summer’s BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn festival is sure to delight. On June 13, these two groups of talented musicians will take over the Prospect Park Bandshell, lighting it up with their haunting, irreverent sounds for a show that indie lovers won’t want to miss.
30 Seconds to Mars: 30 Seconds to Mars, fronted by actor-turned-musician Jared Leto, will be taking the stage at New York’s biggest venue this summer. The rock band will be performing at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday, June 20 along with Walk the Moon, MisterWives, and Joywave. While fans of the band have one more chance to catch them in the NY metro area the following day, when they perform at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ, the band heads to Mexico for the Machacha Festival just two days later, providing plenty of incentive for New Yorkers to catch them now.
Sam Smith: Soulful British singer Sam Smith will also be lighting up the stage at Madison Square Garden this summer. On June 29th and 30th, fans can catch the “Stay With Me” singer at MSG as part of his “The Thrill of It All” tour before it heads to Washington, D.C, the following week.
Make the next few months your most memorable ones yet by hitting up some of the concerts coming to New York this summer. From huge pop acts to indie darlings, you’ll kick yourself if you miss these amazing shows taking place across the city this year.