Summer in Ohio means music drifting into the open air. From big-name tours to hometown bands, stages pop up in parks, amphitheaters, and neighborhood squares across the state. These concerts often come with food trucks, local flair, and plenty of space to kick back with family and friends.
We’ve rounded up nine outdoor concerts and series happening in Ohio this summer, perfect chances to enjoy live music under the sky.
1. Blossom Music Festival (Cuyahoga Falls)
Few venues capture a season’s mood quite like Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls. The Cleveland Orchestra’s summer residency fills the air with classical sounds, inviting listeners to relax on expansive lawns or gather under the pavilion.
Families often arrive early, picnic baskets in hand, making an evening out of music and conversation. The blending of professional musicianship and a laid-back atmosphere appeals to both long-time classical fans and newcomers.
Blossom’s wooded setting and open design foster a sense of escape from the city. For those seeking affordable options, lawn tickets are popular. Each concert series is planned in detail, blending orchestral staples with engaging guest performances.
2. Dave Matthews Band at Blossom & Riverbend
When Dave Matthews Band stops at Blossom Music Center and Riverbend Music Center, the energy is unmistakable. Fans travel from across state lines, eager for well-known hits and extended live jams in the summer air.
The 2025 tour includes dates at both Cuyahoga Falls and Cincinnati, making it accessible to much of Ohio. Blossom’s rolling lawns contrast with Riverbend’s riverside breeze, offering different concert atmospheres.
Each show is paired with robust event security and a range of food vendors, ensuring comfort for both longtime followers and those attending for the first time. The band’s dynamic sets are a hallmark of the summer for many attendees.
3. Buckeye Country Superfest (Columbus)
Buckeye Country Superfest transforms Ohio Stadium into a stage for some of country music’s top acts. In 2025, headliners such as Jelly Roll and Kane Brown lead a lineup that draws significant crowds to Columbus each June.
The festival’s large-scale production is designed for both stadium regulars and first-time visitors, with clear sightlines from almost every seat. Food trucks and merchandise booths are positioned along the concourses, contributing to the event’s festive atmosphere.
A notable feature is its single-day format, which compresses hours of performances into an accessible experience for fans. The Superfest remains a focal point of central Ohio’s summer music calendar, with extensive planning to support crowd safety and comfort.
4. Outlaw Music Festival (Blossom & Riverbend)
Outlaw Music Festival brings together legendary artists such as Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan for a brief Ohio stopover. The rotating lineup and blend of genres attract a multi-generational audience, curious about Americana and roots music.
Concerts at Blossom and Riverbend offer a chance to experience these icons in scenic, accessible settings. Nelson’s tour bus parked outside has become something of a local legend among regular attendees.
This festival is known for relaxed policies on seating and re-entry, making it inviting for families and individuals alike. Vendors selling regional food and crafts add local flavor to the event, reflecting the host cities’ character.
5. PorchRokr Festival (Akron)
Imagine nearly 40 unique stages set up on front porches throughout Highland Square in Akron. PorchRokr Festival is a one-day event where over 150 local acts showcase their talents, transforming an entire neighborhood into a musical circuit.
Attendees stroll from house to house, greeted by everything from bluegrass duos to indie rock ensembles. The atmosphere is communal, with neighbors hosting and supporting performers of all ages.
Food trucks, artist booths, and pop-up cafes round out the experience, making it both an arts festival and a block party. The festival’s grassroots organization has made it a highlight of Northeast Ohio’s summer since its founding.
6. The Black Keys: No Rain, No Flowers Tour (Cuyahoga Falls)
The Black Keys’ 2025 homecoming concert in Cuyahoga Falls stands out for many Northeast Ohio fans. Both members hail from Akron, and their return promises a night of hometown pride and rock nostalgia.
Crowds gather at Blossom Music Center, where the band’s blend of blues and garage rock fills the amphitheater and lawns. The event includes local opening acts, adding a sense of community to the evening’s lineup.
Security measures and parking logistics are carefully coordinated to manage the expected turnout. The band’s choice to play outdoors continues a trend of embracing local venues for major tour stops.
7. St. Vincent at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (Cleveland)
St. Vincent’s 2025 concert at Cleveland’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame merges iconic modern music with an architectural landmark. Annie Clark’s innovative performances suit the museum’s legacy, highlighting the intersection of history and current trends.
The outdoor plaza setting provides an open backdrop for fans of alt-rock and experimental genres. Attendees often combine the show with a visit inside the museum, engaging with exhibits between sets.
Security and sound are coordinated with the Hall’s staff, ensuring a seamless experience. The event is notable for attracting both dedicated followers and those exploring live music for the first time.
8. Summer Porch Concert Series (North Olmsted)
The Summer Porch Concert Series at O’Neill Healthcare in North Olmsted offers a more intimate take on outdoor music. Local musicians perform on the facility’s porch, creating a welcoming environment for residents and visitors.
Programs feature a variety of genres, from jazz ensembles to folk singer-songwriters, ensuring broad appeal. The focus on accessibility makes it easy for seniors and families with young children to participate.
These free concerts run from late May through August, with refreshments typically available. The series is organized by staff who aim to foster community engagement and intergenerational connection through music.
9. ComFest (Columbus)
ComFest, held each June in Goodale Park, is one of Ohio’s longest-running community festivals. It features a mix of music, art, and grassroots activism in a public green space near downtown Columbus.
Stage lineups prioritize local talent, and the event’s non-commercial ethos is reflected in volunteer-run food booths and information tents. Visitors encounter everything from reggae to punk, alongside poets and speakers.
The festival’s commitment to accessibility and sustainability is reflected in its planning. ComFest’s family-friendly activities, shaded lawns, and open layout contribute to its steady popularity year after year.
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