Summer is the season for concerts in Los Angeles. But we are not just talking about those mega concerts with thousands in attendance and headlined by A+ list superstars charging top dollar (though there are plenty of those too).
We are talking about the equally epic Free concerts that pop up all over LA during the Summer months.
Yes, neighborhoods all over Los Angeles host amazing free outdoor concerts taking advantage of our beautiful weather.
Because of how many talented musicians we have here its a good bet you will be enjoying some top-notch talent at those concerts completely gratis.
1 – Friday Night Jazz @LACMA
Description:
Every Friday evening from April to November (all Summer) you can sit back and hear an epic free jazz concert at the LACMA grand entrance with the famous Urban Lights exhibit as a backdrop.
This Miracle Mile masterpiece is one of the most popular free concerts in LA and you will want to get there early to snag a primo place on the large grass lawn. You can bring blankets, sweaters, chairs and a picnic with you while you lounge on the grass and listen to jazz.
This environment is very kid friendly and there is plenty of space for little ones to run around the large park, roll down the hill or explore the La Brea tar pits before the concert starts.
And remember that the LACMA museum is free to all Los Angeles County residents after 3 p.m. on Mon.-Fri. so be sure to check out the latest exhibits.
Location:
5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Pic Credit:@kramorg
hack:
Technically no outside alcohol or bottles are allowed. But between you and me just about everybody packs their own wine bottle and enjoys a glass of vino with the concert. If you feel like a professionally made cocktail you can also grab one at Ray’s + Starks Bar (though it is very pricey).
2 – FigFest @7thAndFig DTLA
Description:
7th&Fig has become a DTLA gathering destination full of shops, bars, and restaurants. To draw even more visitors they now have free live concerts in the Summer months taking place right in the middle of their plaza.
FIGFest’s musical lineup tries to reflect the vibrant cultural center that Downtown LA has become. So most of the musical acts are R&B, hip-hop, pop, soul, dance, and electronic artists followed by a live DJ set.
At FIGFest you can enjoy a free concert experience in Downtown Los Angeles where you can also dine, drink, and shop all in one spot.
If you work in DTLA its a perfect way to cap off a Friday evening and jump-start your weekend after a long week at work.
Location:
off the 110 Harbor Freeway at Figueroa and 7th
PIC Credit:@figat7th
hack:
Can’t make it downtown on a Friday for a free concert? No worries! 7th&Fig now also hosts a Sunday afternoon concert called Sunday Funday Grooves.
Like Friday night FigFest, it is free and open to the public.
FigFest-Every Friday (in June) | 6pm-10pm
Sunday Fun Grooves
Every 2nd & 4th Sunday | 11am-3pm
3 – Levitt Concerts @MacArthur Park
Description:
Levitt Concerts may be the most ambitious on our list promising 50(!) Free Concerts for Angelenos this Summer.
Starting June 1, LA’s most prolific free summer concert series is featuring 50 can’t-miss evenings of live music under the stars in MacArthur Park, located just west of downtown LA.
Most of the acts lined up are Latino based but with this many concerts, there is almost something for every musical taste.
So pack your picnic blankets and lawn chairs and head over to the Levitt LA for some live music and fun!
Location:
2230 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90057
PIC Credit:@abovelosangeles
hack:
Ok, 50 concerts is a lot! We have their full expected schedule here so you can be sure to catch the musical act you want.
4 – Twilight Concerts @Santa Monica Pier
Description:
How do you take one of the most popular and iconic landmarks in Los Angeles and give us even more reason to visit?
Well, you hold some epic live concerts on that landmark and call it ‘Twilight on the Pier’.
This amazing annual concert series does not start until August but it is well worth the wait.
Pack in with thousands of your closest friends right on the beach as the sun sets on the spectacular Santa Monica Pier for an amazing live concert in an even more amazing location.
Location:
PIC Credit@surkusapp
hack:
The Santa Monica Pier during the Summer is crazy anyway let alone while epic concerts are going on.
Here are some tips to help you survive the madness.
1. Don’t even bother trying to park by the Pier. You will end up stuck. Park by or in the Santa Monica Place Mall. It is a lot cheaper and easier than parking near the beach and worth the 10-minute walk to the Pier.
2. Bring a small light beach chair or a Blanket with you. You might not think it is a big deal to sit directly on the sand but when it gets darker (and colder) not so much fun.
3. Bring some snacks with you. The experience is so much better while enjoying a meal under the Stars, to go along with the waves and live music.
4. If you hate large crowds and want to avoid some hassle but still listen to the live music try this tip. Make a reservation at a restaurant near the Pier. You can still enjoy the music and a cocktail in peace and away from the crazy crowds.
5 – Concerts @Hollywood & Highland
Description:
Just a few short blocks away from one of our most famous concert venues, the Hollywood Bowl, the shopping destination Hollywood & Highland Center holds it down for FREE summertime concerts.
The acclaimed annual Wine & Jazz summer concert series Hollywood & Highland is in partnership with KJAZZ 88.1 FM, and typically takes place every Tuesday evening in the Central Courtyard (2nd Level) starting in late July from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Location:
6801 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
PIC Credit:@hollywoodandhighland
hack:
Want to do some good for charity and get the VIP treatment as a bonus? A mere $14 donation to Project Angel Food and the will provide you a comfy chair with wine and cheese service provided by Wolfgang Puck & One Hope Wine so you can sit back and enjoy the show in total comfort.
6 – Levitt Pavillion Concerts in Pasadena
Description:
Here is another addition to our list that holds a massive amount of concerts you can choose from.
Every summer, from June through September, Levitt Pavilion Pasadena produces 50 concerts performed at their historic band shell. Completely gratis these concerts feature some really talented up and coming artists along with already established award-winning performers.
The performances take place on a nice grassy lawn so you will be welcome to picnic while enjoying the stellar entertainment.
Location:
85 E Holly St, Pasadena, CA 91103
PIC Credit:@levitt.la
hack:
With this many concerts going on you can expect a diverse roster of acts spanning all genres.
If you want to bring little ones the kid-friendly performances are scheduled on Thursdays at the Levitt Pavilion Pasadena.
6 – Off the 405 @theGetty
Description:
Without a doubt, the most beautiful venue on our free Summer concert list is the Getty Center.
‘Off the 405’ is their Summer concert series where along with the fabulous free and live music you will get to witness that amazing architecture and those incredible Hilltop sunset views you can only get at the Getty.
Here is a link to the 2019 Summer Schedule –> OFF THE 405
Location:
1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
PIC Credit:@e.jini
hack:
This hack is basically a blanket for all LA activities but really applies here. If you want to go to see a concert COME EARLY. These concerts are popular and by coming a few hours before they start you can avoid the traffic and the crowds.
And as a bonus and you’ll get to walk the spectacular grounds, visit the exhibits, watch the sunset and snatch up a prime seat before the concert starts.
Do you agree with our list or did we miss an obvious one? Let us know by commenting below!