Friday, October 2, 2026
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By the time the sun begins to set over Zachs Bay, thousands of concertgoers will once again be making their way through the gates of Northwell at Jones Beach Theater, where another summer of live music is in full swing.
For generations of Long Islanders, a night at Jones Beach has been more than just a concert. It's a summer tradition — one that pairs ocean breezes with legendary performers, unforgettable singalongs and memories that stretch far beyond the final encore. Whether it's classic rock under the stars, country music with friends or introducing a new generation to live entertainment, few venues capture the spirit of a Long Island summer quite like the open-air amphitheater in Wantagh.
This year's lineup continues that tradition, featuring dozens of performances spanning nearly every musical genre through the end of September.
The remaining schedule includes an impressive mix of Hall of Fame performers, chart-topping artists and emerging stars. Fans of classic rock can revisit decades of hits with Chicago and Styx, Rod Stewart, John Mellencamp, Deep Purple with Kansas, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Foreigner, John Fogerty with Steve Winwood, and The Beach Boys. Dave Matthews Band returns for another summer stop, while Train and The Fray bring crowd favorites that have become seasonal staples.
Country music also takes center stage this summer. Tim McGraw headlines in July before Chris Stapleton arrives in August. The annual Outlaw Music Festival, featuring Willie Nelson, The Avett Brothers, Sheryl Crow and additional artists, brings one of the season's biggest touring festivals to Jones Beach, while Jason Aldean and Dan + Shay help close out the concert calendar in September.
The theater's lineup also reflects today's diverse music landscape. Hip-hop and R&B fans can catch Ne-Yo, Pitbull with Lil Jon, Wu-Tang Clan, Lil Wayne and Logic with G-Eazy. Alternative and indie audiences have opportunities to see Muse, Staind, Empire of the Sun, Breaking Benjamin and O.A.R., while heavier rock fans can look forward to Five Finger Death Punch, Berzerkus and Lamb of God with Down.
Beyond music, Jones Beach continues to attract major comedy and family entertainment. Sebastian Maniscalco performs two consecutive nights in August, while comedians Jeff Dunham and Gabriel Iglesias share the stage for one of the venue's biggest comedy events of the season. Families can also enjoy the KIDZ BOP Live Birthday Concert Event before summer vacation begins winding down.
What continues to set Jones Beach apart isn't simply its lineup, but the experience surrounding it. Many concertgoers arrive early to spend the day at Jones Beach State Park, enjoy a picnic overlooking the Atlantic Ocean or meet friends for dinner before heading into the theater. Others make an evening of it, lingering after the show to take in the ocean air before the drive home.
That combination of destination and entertainment has helped the venue remain one of the country's most recognizable outdoor amphitheaters for decades.
For those attending their first concert of the season, planning ahead can make the experience smoother. Parking lots often begin filling several hours before major shows, particularly weekend performances featuring marquee artists. Arriving early not only eases traffic but also allows visitors time to enjoy the boardwalk and waterfront before the music begins.
Guests are also encouraged to review current venue policies regarding bags, prohibited items and mobile ticketing before arriving.
With concerts scheduled several nights each week through late September, music lovers still have plenty of opportunities to catch a favorite artist — or discover someone new. Whether the soundtrack is classic rock, country, hip-hop, pop, alternative or comedy, Jones Beach once again proves why it remains one of Long Island's defining summer destinations.
As another season unfolds beneath the stars, the venue continues a tradition that has entertained generations of Long Islanders: great music, ocean breezes and unforgettable summer nights just steps from the beach.
