11 free outdoor music series to put on your calendar this spring and summer

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Alive After Five

The largest happy hour in the city has a lineup consisting of bands like Mo Money, Hot Sauce and Early Ray.

Location: The EpiCentre
Dates: Every Thursday, March 30 – September 14
Time: 5 p.m.
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Bearden Music Series

This monthly series will incorporate a different genre of music each performance. Upcoming performers are J’Michael Peeples, AJ Ghent, Davy Knowles and Chubby Carrier.

Location: Romare Bearden Park
Dates: July 8, August 12, September 23
Time: 6 to 9 p.m.
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Davidson’s Concerts on the Green

Every first and third Sunday of the month, settle on the green in front of the library with a picnic and listen to performances that range in style from a Stevie Wonder tribute to Top 40 to a Chicago tribute.

Location: Davidson Village Green
Dates: Every first and third Sunday of the month in April, May, June, July, August and September
Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
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Downtown Music in the Park

Location: Belmont
Dates: May 19, June 2, 16 and 30
Time: 6 to 10 p.m.
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Freedom Music Series

Enjoy an evening of jazz in Freedom Park. Performers include NILS, Amos Hoffman Quartet and Nick Colionne.

Location: Freedom Park
Dates: June 24, July 29, August 26
Time: 6 to 9 p.m.
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Live on the Green

Head to First Ward Park on Friday nights for bluegrass concerts featuring Love Canon, Jeff Austin Band and Town Mountain.

Location: First Ward Park
Dates: June 16, July 14 and 28, August 11 and 25
Time: 7 p.m.
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Music Box Lunch

This series focuses on solo artists and small bands that add an element of peace to lunch breaks in the park. Performers include Colby Dobbs, Sabra Callas, Cory Wells and Mike Waters.

Location: Romare Bearden Park
Dates: Every Tuesday and Friday in May, June, July and August
Time: Noon to 1:30 p.m.
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Movie & Music at Brass Tap

Spend your Friday nights hanging out in Brass Tap’s parking lot for live music, comedies on the big screen, corn hole, beer pong and tailgate food. 21+ only, pet friendly and chairs or blankets are recommended.

Location: Brass Tap (1440 South Tryon Street)
Dates: Every Friday night (keep up with the music and movies on their Facebook page)
Time: 6 to 11 p.m.
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Party in the Park

Throw a blanket down every Wednesday night through September for jazz, rock, beach music and more. Upcoming performers include The Entertainers, Carolina Soul Band and The Catalinas.

Location: Romare Bearden Park
Dates: Every Wednesday in May, June, July, August and September
Time: 6 to 9 p.m.
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River Jam

Upcoming performances include Cris Jacobs, Miles Nielsen & The Rusted Hearts and The Get Right Band.

Location: US National Whitewater Center
Dates: Every Thursday and Saturday in May, June, July, August and September
Time: 7 to 10 p.m.
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Sounds on the Square

Enjoy live music from local musicians at Spirit Square this summer. Lineup includes The Kevin Jones Experience and Loonis McGlohon Young Jazz Artist Competition winners.

Location: Spirit Square (345 North College Street)
Dates: Every Friday night through August
Time: 7 p.m.
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