Are you ready to fill this year’s summer bucket list? Luckily, Sacramento’s summer music scene is electric—bringing together live bands, outdoor festivals, and big-name performances for music lovers of all kinds. Whether you’re looking for free concerts under the stars, a weekend-long festival experience, or a night out with some of country music’s biggest stars, there’s something happening all season long.
The Sherri Patterson Team is here to share our guide to the best summer concerts and festivals in Sacramento this year!
Concerts in the Park
📍
Cesar Chavez Plaza, Downtown Sacramento
📅
Fridays (for the month of June)
💰
Free! All ages welcome
A true Sacramento tradition, Concerts in the Park is the longest-running and largest free music festival in the city. Every Friday night during June, downtown transforms into a buzzing hub of music, community, and fun. Held at Cesar Chavez Plaza, this event features a diverse lineup of local and national artists, covering everything from indie and rock to hip-hop and pop.
Beyond the music, expect an array of local food trucks, vendors, and pop-up shops from local businesses. The best part? It’s free! Grab your friends, bring a lawn chair or blanket, and soak up the good vibes in the heart of Sacramento.
Orangevale Summer Palooza
📍
Orangevale Community Park
📅
June 6-8, 2025
💰
Tickets available online
This three-day festival is all about summer fun, combining live music with family-friendly activities, delicious food, and local craft vendors. Orangevale Summer Palooza features multiple stages with a mix of rock, country, and pop performances. Festivalgoers can enjoy carnival rides, games, and a variety of food options, making it the perfect event for families and music lovers alike. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or relax with a cold drink in hand, this festival has something for everyone.
West Sac Rhythm on the River
📍
Drake The Barn | 985 Riverfront St, West Sacramento
📅
May 29, June 26, July 31, August 28 | 5:30 PM – 9 PM
💰
Free!
West Sac Rhythm on the River is your go-to event for a relaxed evening of live music by the river. Hosted on the last Thursday of the summer months, each show has a unique theme and features both original and classic tunes performed by talented musicians. Families can enjoy the Family Fun Zone, while food and drinks are available for purchase. With a beautiful riverfront setting and a lineup of great artists, this concert series is a hidden gem in Sacramento’s summer music scene.
Farm-to-Fork Festival
📍
Downtown Sacramento
📅
September 26 - 28
💰
Free entry!
While food may be the star of this festival, music lovers will be thrilled with the lineup of live performances that add to the lively atmosphere. The Farm-to-Fork Festival celebrates Sacramento’s status as America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital, with an incredible selection of farm-fresh bites, regional wines, and craft beer—all paired with a fantastic soundtrack of live bands performing throughout the weekend. Expect a mix of folk, rock, blues, and more, as local and national musicians take the stage to create the perfect soundtrack for this one-of-a-kind culinary and cultural event.
Aftershock Music Festival
📍
Discovery Park, Sacramento
📅
October 2-5, 2025
💰
Tickets available online
Rock and metal fans, this one’s for you! Aftershock is one of the biggest rock festivals in the country, bringing massive names in rock, punk, and metal to Discovery Park. With an insane lineup every year, this festival delivers four days of headbanging, epic performances, and a high-energy crowd that makes it one of the most anticipated music events in Sacramento. Whether you’re there for the legendary headliners or to discover new heavy-hitting bands, Aftershock promises an unforgettable experience.
Sacramento isn’t just a great place for music—it’s an amazing place to live. If you’re looking to make the move or find your perfect home in the area, you need a real estate team that knows Sacramento inside and out.
That’s why you should work with The Sherri Patterson Team! We’re here to help you find the perfect home in a city full of life, culture, and great music. Contact us today to start your journey!
