7 Fall Outdoor Concerts in New York State

There’s something about music under open skies that makes fall in New York State feel unforgettable. With a chill in the air and leaves turning, outdoor concerts take on a special kind of magic. I’ve scoured listings and checked the latest updates to bring you seven outdoor concerts and music events across the state, all still happening this fall.

Some concerts are free, some require tickets, and all offer a unique flavor of New York State’s music scene. Whether you’re a jazz fan, into big-name pop acts, or love smaller community happenings, there’s likely something here that will tempt you outside. Double-check details before you go, because dates can change. For now, here are seven outdoor concerts you’ll want on your calendar this autumn.

1. Fall 2025 Overlook Concerts, Riverside Park, NYC

Few New York City events feel as neighborly as the Overlook Concerts in Riverside Park. Each October Sunday, community members gather at the 116th Street Overlook to hear a rotating lineup of jazz, blues, and folk performers. The relaxed setting, with the Hudson River on one side and fiery trees on the other, is hard to beat.

These shows aren’t about big-name headliners. Instead, you’ll hear skilled local musicians who bring heart and spontaneity to every set. The free concerts run from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm, ideal for a lazy afternoon capped with music and gentle conversation.

I’ve always found the vibe here welcoming, with families, students, and longtime Upper West Siders mingling naturally. If you need a low-key escape from the city’s usual rush, this is one for your list. Don’t forget to bring a warm drink and a blanket for extra comfort. The Riverside Park Conservancy keeps details updated online, so check before heading out.

2. Forest Hills Stadium, Big Thief

Late October brings one of the season’s most anticipated outdoor shows to New York City: indie-folk favorites Big Thief will play Forest Hills Stadium on October 25, 2025. For fans of thoughtful songwriting and layered live performances, this date is a standout opportunity to hear the Grammy-nominated band in a setting that balances intimacy with scale.

Forest Hills Stadium, with its century-old architecture and ivy-wrapped walls, has long been a favorite for fall concerts. By late October, the crisp air and changing leaves set the mood, creating an atmosphere that feels distinctly seasonal. Sitting outdoors in Queens while the band’s expansive sound fills the open sky makes for a memorable way to close out the outdoor concert calendar.

Big Thief’s reputation for dynamic shows adds another reason to mark the date. Their setlists often move fluidly between hushed acoustic songs and roaring full-band moments, keeping audiences engaged throughout. The band has been praised for its ability to make even a large venue feel personal, thanks to Adrianne Lenker’s arresting vocals and the group’s tight interplay.

For practical details, Forest Hills Stadium is easily accessible by subway and LIRR, making it a convenient destination for both city residents and visitors. Tickets are available online and tend to sell quickly for high-profile acts, so planning ahead is wise. If you’re looking for an October concert that combines world-class music with one of New York’s most storied venues, this show deserves a top spot on your fall calendar.

3. Rooftop Concerts at Pier 17, NYC

There’s nothing quite like watching live music with the New York skyline as your backdrop, and Pier 17’s rooftop delivers just that every fall. The venue extends its outdoor concert series into October, booking acts that range from up-and-coming indie groups to established pop names. This year’s schedule includes Chance the Rapper and Royel Otis, drawing crowds from across the state.

I vividly remember catching a show here while the sky blushed pink at sunset, feeling the breeze off the river and the buzz of the city all at once. The design of the rooftop creates an intimate atmosphere even for larger audiences, and every spot feels close to the stage.

Seating is first-come, first-served, so if you want a prime view, it pays to arrive early. Pier 17’s website is the go-to for tickets and lineup updates. If you’re looking to experience a distinctly urban side of New York State’s music scene, this rooftop is unmatched for vibe and view.

4. Pavilion Concerts, Bethel Woods, Catskills

If music history is your thing, Bethel Woods is a must-visit. The site of the iconic 1969 Woodstock Festival, it now hosts Pavilion Concerts each fall, bringing contemporary acts to a setting rich with legacy. The open-air Pavilion sits among the Catskills’ colorful hills, creating a scenic soundtrack for every show.

I once drove out here for a concert and was struck by the peacefulness of the landscape, so different from city venues. The crowd tends to be relaxed, with many people bringing blankets or lawn chairs and settling in for an evening under the stars.

Concerts run rain or shine, so pack accordingly. The Bethel Woods website lists all upcoming fall shows and ticket options. Visiting here always feels like stepping into a piece of New York State’s musical soul, both rooted in history and alive with new sounds.

5. SummerStage Extended into Fall, Central Park, NYC

SummerStage isn’t just for summer anymore, these days, Central Park’s Rumsey Playfield hosts performances well into October. The festival’s lineup is famously broad, often featuring everything from high-energy hip-hop to world music and indie legends. This fall, you’ll find concerts on multiple weekends, including a special supergroup show and an experimental hip-hop set.

I caught a SummerStage concert last fall and was surprised by how the mood shifted as the sun set and the temperature dropped. Everyone pulled on extra layers, but no one left early; the music kept people moving and smiling.

Entry is usually first-come, first-served, and you can bring snacks or non-alcoholic drinks for a picnic-style night out. The event’s website offers the latest details on who’s playing and when. Central Park remains one of New York State’s best outdoor stages, especially when the leaves start to turn.

6. Forest Hills Stadium Concerts, Queens

Forest Hills Stadium carries decades of musical tradition, from Beatles gigs to modern pop headliners. These days, late-season concerts keep the place humming into the brisk weeks of October. The architecture combines old-school charm with modern upgrades, so no matter where you sit, you’re in for a memorable night.

My first visit here felt like stepping into a secret garden tucked inside the city, especially once the stage lights flicked on and the first notes rang out. Concerts draw a wide range of fans, from diehard locals to curious first-timers visiting New York State.

It’s a good idea to buy tickets in advance because popular shows often sell out. The stadium’s official website posts all upcoming events and practical tips for your visit. For a dose of music history mixed with fresh sounds, Forest Hills never disappoints.

7. Hunter Mountain Oktoberfest Concerts, Hunter, Catskills

Few places capture the fall spirit in New York like the Catskills, and Hunter Mountain’s Oktoberfest celebrations bring it all together, mountain scenery, crisp autumn air, and plenty of live outdoor music. Each weekend in late September and October 2025, the mountain resort turns into a festival ground where bands take the stage against a backdrop of fiery foliage.

The concerts here aren’t about big stadium lights or packed arenas. Instead, they highlight regional performers who know how to create a lively atmosphere for both locals and visitors. Past lineups have included acts like Alana Wyld, Wyld Blu, and Joe Adee & the Lugnuts, blending blues, rock, and folk into the mix. The variety ensures that no two weekends feel quite the same, making repeat visits rewarding for music lovers.

The setting is what makes Hunter Mountain stand apart. The open slopes and fresh mountain air give these shows a laid-back feel that’s hard to find elsewhere. Families, groups of friends, and travelers gather under tents and on the grass, moving easily between music sets and other festival activities. It’s as much a community celebration as it is a concert series.

Because Oktoberfest runs rain or shine, it’s smart to dress in layers and bring good walking shoes, the mountain terrain can be uneven, especially if you’re exploring between shows. The combination of local food, fall colors, and outdoor music makes this one of the most seasonal and scenic events in New York State.