Free Live Music This Summer
Free Live Music in Downtown Rochester, Minnesota
Downtown Rochester, MN transforms into a vibrant hub of live music throughout the summer, offering over 200 free performances for residents and visitors. Whether you’re seeking a midday melody, an evening groove, or a weekend jam, the city’s dynamic music scene has something for everyone!
Music Downtown: Daily Performances
From May 19 through October 4, Peace Plaza becomes the epicenter of live music with the Music on the Plaza series. Enjoy performances:
- Weekdays (Monday–Friday): 11:00am – 1:00pm
- Sundays through Thursdays: 4:00-6:00pm (excluding Thursdays Downtown dates)
These sessions feature local artists, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for lunch breaks or evening relaxation. A special thank you to our partners for this program: Mayo Clinic, Altra Federal Credit Union and Olmsted Medical Center.
Thursdays Downtown: A Weekly Festival
Mark your calendars for Thursdays Downtown, Southern Minnesota’s largest art, food, and music street festival, running every Thursday from June 12 to August 14, 2025 (excluding July 3). Spanning from 11:00am to 8:30pm, the event features multiple stages with diverse musical acts, alongside a vendor market and delicious local cuisine. Music performances take place on two stages at 11:30am, 5pm and 7pm each Thursdays Downtown.
Riverside Concerts: Sunday Evenings in Mayo Park
Cap off your weekend with the Riverside Music Series, offering five weeks of free concerts on Sunday evenings at 7pm in Mayo Park, located behind the Civic Center. This series showcases a mix of legendary acts, emerging talent, and local favorites, all in a picturesque outdoor setting .
Discover More Live Music
Beyond these scheduled events, many Downtown restaurants and venues host live music regularly. Check out the full calendar of events to find performances that suit your taste and schedule.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, Downtown Rochester’s free live music offerings provide the perfect soundtrack to your summer. Bring your friends, family, or just yourself!
