Summer’s Top 10 Music Venues for Northern Westchester/Fairfield

Summer comes with a plethora of live music shows throughout the area. From heading over to one of the many concert halls to just relaxing on a patch of grass, there are so many ways to experience local, live music in our area. These venues are hosting musical guests that will appeal to just about every kind of music fan.

Ridgefield Playhouse

The Ridgefield Playhouse has an incredible summer lineup that will appeal to fans of everything from classic rock to new wave indie. With multiple concerts and shows each week, there is ample opportunity to grab tickets with family or friends, but be aware they are selling fast.

Those looking to reconnect with the pop-infused sound of the 1980s should check out Jessie’s Girl, the popular 80s tribute band, coming to the Playhouse July 22. Composed of musicians and collaborators of some of the biggest stars of the era, this group is sure to bring nostalgia to all those neon-clothed teenagers.

If pop is not your speed, you might want to check out The Baseball Project, who will be stopping at the playhouse August 20 during their 2023 U.S. Tour. The group formed in 1992 when Scott McCaughey met Steve Wynn. The two found they were both major fans of baseball and started working to create rock albums composed of stories about some of the game’s greatest stars. The band has released three albums to date and added huge stars to the group, including R.E.M. 's Peter Buck and Mike Mills.

This show is perfect for anyone who loves the game of baseball, rock and roll, or even just those R.E.M. superfans looking to see some legends in the industry play music about Ted Williams.

Chirps

Chirps, also in Ridgefield, is offering free concerts again every Tuesday and Thursday this summer. Now in their 20th year, the concerts have become a major part of the community as well as a fantastic low-key way to kick back and enjoy local music with friends and family. This year’s lineup features artists of all styles.

Worth seeing: Willie Nile, a legend in the rock and indie scenes from Buffalo, New York. Nile has shared the stage with industry legends such as The Who and Bruce Springsteen throughout his over 40-year career. He will play at Chirps July 20, and it’s sure to be a spectacle.

For Blues fans, Seth Walker is the go-to artist to check out. Throughout his long career, Walker has dominated Americana and Blues charts, peaking at number 2 on the Billboard Blues Chart. He will offer a mix of music suitable for all fans and ages, combining a fusion of blues, gospel, R&B, and country. Walker will no doubt be a showman, so make sure to check him out August 17.

Uncle Cheef

Of the most exciting new live music venues is Uncle Cheef. Located in Brewster on Route 22, this venue offers a relaxing sound that is sure to charm all music fans. The lounge opened in May by Grammy Award-winning musician Ian Hendrickson-Smith, famous for his work on the Tonight Show.

The lounge is open Wednesday to Sunday, and offers performances each night, as well as a Sunday Brunch show. More often than not, jazz will be the sound vibrating off the walls.

Along with the music, Uncle Cheef offers many great food and drink options. The lounge specializes in American style tapas and includes a full bar featuring hand-crafted cocktails.

Harvest Moon

Of all the music venues in the area, nothing gets more local than Harvest Moon right here in North Salem. On Friday and Saturday evenings, families can stop by at the apple orchard on Hardscrabble Road for a relaxing night of music and food. One of the most popular events in town, people of all ages come to hear songs played by local musicians, have a slice of Harvest Moon’s homemade wood fired pizza, or just to catch up and relax with friends. Additionally, Harvest Moon offers a wide variety of ciders brewed right here in North Salem for adults, and non-alcoholic versions just as delightful for the kids.

Daryl’s House

For those who enjoy a meal while they listen to their music, look no further than Daryl’s House in Pawling. This venue was founded by Daryl Hall of the famous duo Hall & Oates, to provide a setting for his online series “Live from Daryl’s House.” It is designed based on the actual home Hall lives in, allowing fans to see how rock stars truly act when they are comfortable.

Daryl’s House offers multiple shows weekly, and will feature promising groups and solo artists throughout the summer into autumn. Upcoming shows include Jimmie Vaughn and Eric Hutchinson as well as tribute performances for Adele, Guns N’ Roses, and The Doors.

Hammond Museum

The Hammond Museum & Japanese Stroll Garden in North Salem is expanding its offerings this summer with two live musical performances.The first is the Norm Hathaway Swing Band, coming to town August 11. This 18-person band will have you moving with their sweet jazz sound. North Salem residents can come for free, and beer and wine will be available for purchase.

Closing out the summer season is the 57th Annual Moon Viewing Event. At this event, patrons will be able to walk through the moonlit gardens while enjoying a live performance of traditional Japanese music.

Croton Music Series

To celebrate Croton-on-Hudson’s 125th anniversary, there will be a summer music series Friday nights, concluding with Peter Calo & Friends on August 4. Concerts begin at 7:00 p.m. at Senasqua Park. Many genres will be performed throughout the summer, including Blues, R&B, Classic Rock, and Psychedelic. Be sure to check the lineup at www.crotononhudson-ny.gov/recreation-parks/webforms/2023-croton-hudson-entertainment-series and find the concert for you.

Brewster Summer Music Series

Another summer music series will be in Brewster at the Southeast Veterans Park Gazebo. This compilation of concerts will feature many more local musicians and artists trying to get their foot into the industry, while also including some established artists to keep fans interested. These shows will take place Wednesday nights from 6:30pm - 8:30pm. Be sure to check it out at www.brewstermusicfestival.com/bands2019.html for more details.

Deni Bonet at Wampus Pond (Armonk)

Those looking for a modern spin on a classic orchestral sound look no further than Deni Bonet. She will be playing throughout the area all summer, and most notably in Armonk at Wampus Brook Park on July 29. This violinist has played with superstars R.E.M., Sarah McLachlan, and many more. She’ll be sure to impress in a show you won’t want to miss.

Capitol Theater (Port Chester)

One of the most famous venues in Westchester County is The Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, and they will be hosting many great music events in the coming months. Leading the charge will be Peter Frampton who will be playing July 23 & 25 as part of his Never Say Never tour. Rock-and-Roll fans will be excited to hear that ZZ Top will be coming to town as well September 6 for their tour.

Additionally, visitors can check out Garcia's, the famous bar next door named after rock legend and Grateful Dead member Jerry Garcia, who stated The Capitol Theatre was one of the greatest venues in America. It’s sure to be a fantastic time for everyone in attendance, so make sure not to miss out. More information about the upcoming events can be found at www.thecapitoltheatre.com/events/venue/the-capitol-theatre/all