6 Can't Miss Concert Series in Winston-Salem
When the weather warms up, Winston-Salem’s music scene hits its stride with an incredible lineup of festivals and concert series—many free to attend. Here are six standouts.
Gears & Guitars brings the thrill of high-speed cycling and live music to downtown Winston-Salem’s Innovation Quarter on Memorial Day Weekend. At Bailey Park, grab a spot to watch top cyclists race past while enjoying free concerts from big-name bands. Countless big-name bands have played the event over the years, including OAR, Gin Blossoms, The Band Perry, Sister Hazel, Fuel, and The Fray.
1Love Festival unites musicians, poets, authors, and visual artists for a multi-day celebration of African Diasporic culture. Since its 2022 debut, it has evolved into a uniquely immersive experience. Held annually in the summer months, the festival seems to grow in scope and prestige each year.
Lyrics by the Lake brings live music, poetry, comedy, and local art to the NC Museum of Art's scenic back lawn on second Fridays from May to September. General admission is $20, though prices vary by lineup.
SummerLark is an annual benefit concert that fills downtown's Bailey Park with live music each spring. Featuring multiple bands and past headliners like Chris Lane, Barenaked Ladies, and Old Crow Medicine Show, the event supports the Cancer Patient Support Program. Visit their website for details and tickets.
The Salem Band Concert Series has filled Winston-Salem’s summer nights with music for centuries. The nation’s oldest mixed-wind ensemble performs themed concerts, from “Awesome ’80s” to “Stars & Stripes,” at Salem Square in Old Salem. Bring a chair, a picnic, and enjoy live music under the stars.
The Downtown Summer Music Series brings free live music to downtown every summer with Downtown Jazz and Summer on Fourth. Downtown Jazz fills Corpening Plaza with smooth sounds on select Fridays, while Summer on Fourth delivers high-energy party bands on Saturdays near Foothills Brewing. The series has been a local favorite for nearly three decades.
WANT MORE MUSIC?
Get an overview of the city's best sites for live music, from intimate clubs to spacious halls to outdoor concert series, by checking out our Guide to Live Music
Also, stay up-to-date on all local concerts, festivals, block parties and more by checking out our Events Calendar
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