SummerStage Central Park Concerts on an Open Air Lawn

Rumsey Playfield is the open air home of SummerStage Central Park, a lawn where the trees become part of the show. Live concerts lead the calendar, and community events range from Youth Pride to morning television broadcasts.

Arrive early to claim a comfortable patch of grass, and stay near the stage when the music matters more than the picnic. Sound is strongest up front, and the audience stands downhill, which can make a packed show awkward to watch. Bring your own picnic and blanket for a neighborhood hang that skips the drink stand line.

Many performances are free, while some require advance tickets, and food and alcohol are sold on site. Check the schedule before heading to the 69th Street entrance off 5th Ave, then plan an afternoon or evening of outdoor concerts in Central Park under the trees.