Outdoor Concert Fun in the Summer Time

Summer Concert Listings & Schedules

Summertime brings out the music in people. Not only does the music in passing cars get louder, so does the demand for outdoor concerts!

Why sit in an indoor arena when the sun is shining and the breeze is blowing?

Being outside and listening to music is different because the music becomes part of the air instead of bouncing off the walls. Some outdoor arenas have a grassy lawn area where you can bring a blanket or a chair so you are free to kick back, relax and enjoy. You may even be able to catch the music of the warm up bands from the parking lot while you're having a tailgate party with your friends.

Concerts in the rain can be fun, but...

One of the disadvantages to outdoor concerts is rain. Some of the best concerts are rain soaked — remember the pictures of mud soaked fans at one of the most famous outdoor concerts ... Woodstock! For most music lovers, though, a few drops here and there might actually be refreshing but any more than that and it just puts a damper on the whole experience. Some stick it out and bring umbrellas or ponchos. If the forecast really calls for bad storms or if a storm kicks up during the concert, the show may even be canceled— and hopefully rescheduled.

Enjoy the sun

The sun is great at outdoor concerts. If you're going to be rocking under the midday sun, make sure to wear sunscreen. With the music making the time go fast, it is easy to forget about how long you've been out in the sun. A bit of protection is always a good idea. Another way to stay cool is with a big, floppy hat or at least a baseball cap! That way you can be stylin' and still avoid those nasty UV rays.

If it is an evening concert you might only be in the sun for an hour or two so that isn't too bad. Afternoon concerts, however, mean being in the heat of the day for 3 or 4 hours. One memory you don't want to bring home with you is a sunburn.

Stay hydrated.

Singing, dancing, jumping up and down, and clapping all burn calories. As with any other form of exertion, it is vital to replenish your body with water if you're out in the sun for any length of time. Here's a news flash - alcohol is not going to help. A cold beer may feel refreshing on a hot day, but it just makes your body dehydrate. Iced tea, sweet tea and iced coffee all do the same thing. The best thing to keep your body fresh so you can keep dancing to the live music beat — or relaxing to the classics, is a fortified water. Next best is plain water or fruit juices...

Little kids love concerts too

These tips are especially important for children. Hopefully, they don't normally drink beer or alcohol, but the colas and iced drinks are favorites with young kids. Little bodies tend to get dehydrated even quicker than older kids or adults. Especially if you'll be attending popular concert series at summer amusement parks or beaches, remember to pack bottles or sippy cups of water or juice.

While you're packing be sure to add extra diapers for the little ones and, depending on your kids' ages, also bring a change of clothing, a short book or two for intermission, and baggies of healthy, juicy snacks - pieces of cut up fruit are perfect!

Be safe and have fun

Always make sure to arrive early for free concerts because available spaces are sure to go quickly. Take as little cash as possible with you and keep a close eye on your belongings. That will stop any thief or predator who wants to spoil your party. It's a good idea not to accept drinks from strangers at rock concerts. Some people think it's cool to lace their non-alcoholic drinks with drugs to get a buzz for the concert — and share their drinks with unsuspecting fans at the concert. There are always first aid stations taking care of scared teens and even younger kids who had no idea what they were drinking. You want to enjoy the music, not get sick!

Local and Worldwide - Summer is outdoor concert time

There are concerts held outdoors in practically every city and every town. All types of music from classical to hard rock and hip hop can be enjoyed by all for the cost of an admission ticket and, sometimes, for free! Below are just a few links to some local summer happenings near your city or town...

also see in Summer -> Kids Rainy Day Activity Ideas