Free Concerts & Events in Essex County, NJ
Looking for free outdoor concerts and live music in Essex County, NJ this summer? There's still plenty of season left. From jazz nights at the Wellmont Arts Plaza to Springsteen tributes at Brookdale Park, Essex County Parks and local organizations are hosting free music and community events all through August. All concerts are free and open to the public just show up and enjoy.
Last updated July 27, 2026 – follow me on Instagram @SorellesellsNJ for the latest weekend picks!
One of the things I love most about living and working in Essex County is that there's always something happening. Whether it's a free concert in the park, a farmers market on a Saturday morning, a jazz festival, or a neighborhood art walk, these towns have a way of bringing people together – and that sense of community is exactly what makes this area special.
If you're new to the area – or considering a move to Bloomfield, West Orange, or Montclair – community events are the fastest way to feel at home. This is your go-to guide for free things to do in Essex County this weekend and all summer long.
I've rounded up the best free outdoor concerts, family-friendly events, and local happenings right now – plus the recurring events you can count on every season. Since I'm out and about in these neighborhoods every week, I'll keep this page fresh with what's actually worth your time.
What's Coming Up This Weekend
Here are the next free concerts, outdoor music, and family-friendly events in Essex County perfect if you're looking for things to do this weekend in Bloomfield, Montclair, West Orange, or anywhere nearby.
Bloomfield Community Farmers Market
Montclair Jazz Soundcheck: Joel Ross Good Vibes
Dinner Under the Stars: Latin Rhythms Night
Promised Land: Sounds of the Jersey Shore
July 27 – August 2, 2026
Happy Monday! Here's your full week ahead across Essex County. Tuesday July 28 is a double-header: the Bloomfield Community Farmers Market runs 3:30–6:30 PM at the Public Library, and the Montclair Jazz Festival Soundcheck Series brings Joel Ross' Good Vibes to Wellmont Arts Plaza at 6 PM. Friday July 31 brings Dinner Under the Stars on Washington Street in Bloomfield Center with a Bloomfield College Night Latin Rhythms theme (6–10 PM), plus Sounds of the '60s with the Kelton Cooper Band at Brookdale Park (7:30 PM). Saturday August 1 is packed: the Montclair Farmers Market at Walnut Street Station (8 AM–2 PM), the West Orange Farmers Market (9 AM–2 PM), and Promised Land: Sounds of the Jersey Shore at Brookdale Park (7:30 PM). Sunday August 2 wraps up with the Essex County Summer Orchestra Players' "Made in America" concert at Livingston High School. Plenty to keep you busy this week!
Bloomfield Community Farmers Market
Weekly · TuesdaysThe Bloomfield Community Farmers Market runs every Tuesday through October at the Bloomfield Public Library Courtyard. Fresh local produce, food trucks, breweries, and local food makers. It's a wonderful midday stop if you work in the area or a fun after-school outing with the kids. The market runs 3:30–6:30 PM, so you can stop by after work and grab everything you need for the week.
Montclair Jazz Soundcheck: Joel Ross Good Vibes
FreeThe Montclair Jazz Festival's Soundcheck Series continues Tuesday with Joel Ross' Good Vibes at the Wellmont Arts Plaza. This free outdoor concert honors Chicago as one of the country's most influential jazz cities. Ross is one of the most exciting vibraphonists in modern jazz, and the Wellmont Arts Plaza is a fantastic intimate outdoor venue. Runs 6–10 PM. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy the music.
Dinner Under the Stars: Latin Rhythms Night
FreeBloomfield Center's Dinner Under the Stars series continues this Friday with a Bloomfield College Night edition featuring Latin Rhythms. Washington Street is closed to traffic with outdoor tables and chairs set up so you can dine from local restaurants or bring takeout. Live music runs 6:30–9:30 PM, with the street open 6–10 PM. This week's performers include an exciting line-up of Bloomfield College recent graduates and staff. It's the 9th annual series and a beloved Bloomfield tradition.
Sounds of the '60s: The Kelton Cooper Band at Brookdale Park
FreeThe Essex County SummerMusic series wraps up July with a trip back to the '60s at Brookdale Park. The Kelton Cooper Band takes the stage at 7:30 PM with all your favorite 60s hits. Pack a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy live music under the stars at this beautiful park on the Bloomfield/Montclair border. One of the best free date night or family outing options in the area all summer long.
Montclair Farmers Market
Weekly · SaturdaysMontclair's year-round farmers market at the Walnut Street Train Station every Saturday. Local produce, meats, artisan cheeses, honey, fresh flowers, and live music. One of the area's most beloved weekly traditions. Perfect for stocking up on seasonal goodies and grabbing a coffee while you browse.
West Orange Farmers Market
Weekly · SaturdaysEvery Saturday through the fall, the West Orange Farmers Market brings fresh produce, artisan goods, baked treats, and local crafts to the 80 Main Street parking lot. It's a relaxed, family-friendly market where neighbors catch up and stock up on the week's groceries. Sponsored by the Downtown West Orange Alliance.
Promised Land: Sounds of the Jersey Shore at Brookdale Park
FreeThe Essex County SummerMusic series brings the energy of the Jersey Shore to Brookdale Park on Saturday night. Think classic rock, boardwalk vibes, and a perfect summer evening under the stars. Free outdoor concert , just bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy.
Essex County Summer Orchestra Players: Made in America
FreeThe 25th annual free concert by the Essex County Summer Orchestra Players at Livingston High School. Conductor Nate White leads an afternoon of American music spanning from classics to modern compositions. A wonderful indoor option if the summer heat gets to be too much, and a great way to wind down the weekend.
Coming Up in Late July & August
Summer's not slowing down more free concerts at Brookdale Park every Friday and Saturday, the Jazz Soundcheck Series continues at Wellmont Arts Plaza, farmers markets every week in Bloomfield, Montclair, and West Orange, and the big Downtown Jamboree coming up in mid-August. Mark your calendar for Rebirth Brass Band at the Soundcheck Series (Aug 4), the West Orange Downtown Thursday Market (Aug 6), Xtreme Queen at Brookdale Park (Aug 7), Captain Jack: Tribute to Billy Joel (Aug 8), the Caribbean Festival at Monte Irvin Orange Park (Aug 8), and the Montclair Jazz Festival Downtown Jamboree (Aug 15). Here's what to put on your calendar now.
Dinner Under the Stars: Latin Rhythms Night
Bloomfield Center's Dinner Under the Stars continues Friday July 31 with a Bloomfield College Night edition featuring Latin Rhythms on Washington Street. Al fresco dining, live music, and great energy in downtown Bloomfield from 6 PM.
Montclair Community Farms Mobile Farm Stand
The Montclair Community Farms Mobile Farm Stand brings fresh, organic, locally sourced produce to 56 Walnut Street on Fridays at 1:30 PM. They accept SNAP, WIC/Senior Vouchers, cash, and credit. A wonderful way to support local agriculture and eat seasonally.
Orange Community Farmers' Market
The Orange Community Farmers' Market runs every Thursday through September at the Orange Fairgrounds. Fresh produce, local vendors, and a welcoming community atmosphere right next door to Bloomfield and West Orange.
Sounds of the '60s: The Kelton Cooper Band
The Essex County SummerMusic series wraps up July with a trip back to the '60s at Brookdale Park. Free outdoor concert to close out the month , bring a blanket and sing along.
Promised Land: Sounds of the Jersey Shore
The Essex County SummerMusic series brings the energy of the Jersey Shore to Brookdale Park. Think classic rock, boardwalk vibes, and a perfect summer evening under the stars. Free outdoor concert, just bring a blanket.
Essex County Summer Orchestra Players: Made in America
The 25th annual free concert by the Essex County Summer Orchestra Players at Livingston High School. Conductor Nate White leads an afternoon of American music. A wonderful indoor option if the summer heat gets to be too much.
Montclair Jazz Soundcheck: Rebirth Brass Band
The legendary Rebirth Brass Band from New Orleans brings their high-energy brass sound to the Wellmont Arts Plaza. A highlight of the Montclair Jazz Festival Soundcheck Series.
West Orange Downtown Thursday Market
The monthly evening market returns to Alden Street in West Orange with local vendors, food trucks, desserts, and live entertainment. A wonderful block party atmosphere downtown.
Captain Jack: Tribute to Billy Joel
Another can't-miss night at Brookdale Park. Captain Jack performs all the Billy Joel classics from "Piano Man" to "Uptown Girl" in this free outdoor tribute concert. Part of the Essex County SummerMusic series.
Montclair Jazz Festival Downtown Jamboree & Block Party
The crown jewel of Montclair's summer , a full day and evening of world-class jazz at Lackawanna Plaza with food vendors, art installations, and a community block party. One of the largest free jazz festivals in the country, and it's right in our backyard.
West Orange Farmers Market
Every Saturday through the fall, the West Orange Farmers Market brings fresh produce, artisan goods, baked treats, and local crafts to the 80 Main Street parking lot. It's a relaxed, family-friendly market where neighbors catch up and stock up on the week's groceries.
Essex County Parks Summer Music
Essex County is celebrating America's 250th Anniversary with a full season of free live concerts and festivals in parks across the county. All concerts below are free admission – just bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy live music under the stars. Festivals may have food vendors on site. Schedule is subject to change – check the Essex County Parks site for the latest updates.
Brookdale Park Concerts
Bloomfield / MontclairThese concerts are happening right in Bloomfield and Montclair – a perfect summer evening out! Brookdale Park sits right on the border of both towns, and the Friday night concert series is one of the best free traditions in the area. All shows start at 7:30 PM.
Sounds of the '60s – The Kelton Cooper Band
Xtreme Queen
Promised Land: Sounds of the Jersey Shore
Captain Jack: Tribute to Billy Joel
Local Park Concerts Across Essex County
These free concerts rotate through parks all over Essex County. I've called out the ones in our core towns – Watsessing Park in Bloomfield and Eagle Rock Reservation in West Orange – but all of them are worth the trip if you're exploring the area.
Danielle Illario Group – Contemporary Jazz
FreeJersey Sound – A Night of Oldies
FreeThe Verdict – Sounds of the Caribbean
FreeLiftoff Brass – A Night of Pop
FreeAn Evening with the Crooners – Van Martin and His Big Band Sound
FreeThis one's right in West Orange! Eagle Rock Reservation has some of the best views in the county, and live big band music at sunset makes it an incredible evening out. If you haven't been to Eagle Rock, this is a great excuse to check out one of the most scenic spots in Essex County.
Summer Festivals
Full-day festival celebrations featuring live music, cultural performances, and food. These are the big ones – plan to spend the afternoon. Food vendors will be on site.
Caribbean Festival
Rain date: Sunday, August 9
International Food & Music Festival
Rain date: Sunday, August 23
Recurring Events You Can Count On
These are the events that happen every season – the ones that give each town its rhythm. I've listed the ones I think are most worth knowing about.
Bloomfield Community Farmers Market
Fresh produce, live music, and local goods in the Bloomfield Public Library courtyard every Tuesday afternoon, June through October.
Seasonal · Tuesdays 3:30–6:30 PM · 90 Broad St, BloomfieldBloomfield Growers' Market
Brand new this summer – fresh, locally grown produce at Bishop Square every Thursday afternoon, July through October. A great complement to the Tuesday market.
Seasonal · Thursdays 4–6 PM · Bishop Square, BloomfieldBloomfield HarvestFest
Bloomfield's biggest annual event – live music, local vendors, food from neighborhood restaurants, and family activities downtown.
Annual · Fall · Downtown BloomfieldMontclair Jazz Festival
One of the country's largest free jazz festivals, held each summer at Nishuane Park with world-class musicians and food vendors. The Downtown Jamboree & Block Party is August 15.
Annual · Summer · Nishuane Park & Lackawanna PlazaMontclair Film Festival
Every October, venues across Montclair become a multi-day celebration of cinema – features, docs, panels, and filmmaker Q&As.
Annual · October · TownwideArt Walk Montclair
Pop-up galleries, art installations, and live demonstrations at downtown businesses on select evenings throughout the year.
Recurring · Downtown MontclairMontclair PorchFest
Local musicians perform on residential front porches throughout the community – as charming as it sounds.
Annual · Spring · NeighborhoodsWest Orange Farmers Market
Fresh local produce, prepared foods, and artisan goods every Saturday morning at 80 Main Street.
Seasonal · Saturdays · 80 Main St, West OrangeDowntown Thursdays
Weekly Thursday evening series with live music, outdoor dining, and family activities along Main Street in downtown West Orange.
Seasonal · Thursdays · Downtown West OrangeWest Orange Street Fair
Annual community festival with local vendors, food, music, and family activities on Main Street.
Annual · Fall · Main StreetTurtle Back Zoo ZOO-vies
Outdoor movie nights in the zoo's picnic area every Wednesday evening in summer. Bring blankets and snacks – a midweek family favorite.
Seasonal · Wednesdays · Turtle Back Zoo, West OrangeGinny Duenkel Pool Season
West Orange's community pool opens Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Annual memberships available – a real "I'm glad I live here" amenity.
Seasonal · Memorial Day – Labor DayDinner Under the Stars: Jazz Night
Back for its 9th year – al fresco dining and live jazz by U.L.T.R.A.S. on Washington Street in Bloomfield Center every Friday evening, late May through September.
Seasonal · Fridays 6–10 PM · Washington St, Bloomfield CenterSouth Orange Summer Nights
Free Wednesday night concerts at Flood's Hill through July and outdoor movies in August, often with local food trucks.
Seasonal · Wednesdays · Flood's Hill, South OrangeMovie Night Under the Stars
Montclair Film's free outdoor movie series screens at Essex County parks – community-oriented favorites under the open sky. Next up: "Zootopia 2" on Saturday, August 29 at Brookdale Park.
Summer · Various ParksEssex County Parks System
South Mountain Reservation, Eagle Rock, and Branch Brook Park regularly host outdoor concerts, nature walks, and seasonal events. The free SummerMusic series runs June 16 through August 22 at parks countywide.
Year-round · CountywideNutley Community Events
Annual Street Fair, Italian-American Festival, seasonal outdoor movies, and holiday parades keep Nutley's community calendar full.
Annual · Various Dates · Town CenterHow to Make the Most of Essex County's Events
Follow Along on Instagram
I share weekend picks, event highlights, and local happenings regularly on Instagram. It's the fastest way to know what's going on this weekend – I'm usually at these events myself.
Check Town Calendars
Each town's website maintains an events calendar – Bloomfield, West Orange, and Montclair all keep theirs updated. I'll highlight the best ones here, but the full schedules are worth bookmarking.
Visit the Farmers Market Early
The best stuff at the farmers markets goes fast – especially seasonal produce and baked goods. Arrive within the first hour for the best selection and a chance to chat with vendors.
Explore Your Neighbors
If you're new to the area, community events are the fastest way to feel at home. Show up, introduce yourself, and don't be surprised when you start seeing familiar faces everywhere.
More Things to Do in Essex County
Whether you're checking out a free concert at Brookdale Park or grabbing dinner in Bloomfield Center, these pages will help you get to know the area even better.
Sorelle's Local Favorites
My favorite coffee shops, restaurants, parks, and weekend spots across Essex County.
Bloomfield, NJ
Downtown farmers markets, jazz on Washington Street, and Brookdale Park right next door.
West Orange, NJ
Turtle Back Zoo, Eagle Rock sunsets, farmers markets, and summer movies in the park.
Montclair, NJ
The Jazz Festival, art walks, boutique shopping on Church Street, and incredible dining.
South Orange, NJ
Summer Nights at Flood's Hill, SOPAC shows, and a walkable village with real charm.
Maplewood, NJ
Maplewoodstock, a vibrant village center, and one of the most community-oriented towns around.
Thinking about making a move to Essex County?
These events are just one piece of what makes these towns special. If you're curious about life in Bloomfield, West Orange, Montclair, or anywhere in Essex County, I'd love to help you explore your options – no pressure, just honest guidance.
@SorellesellsNJ on Instagram