Local Music. Local Parks.

FORWARD is a free summer concert series that brings live music, food trucks, and creative activities to parks across Rochester. Each event features two bands and a welcoming, all-ages atmosphere.

Concerts rotate through every ward and are co-hosted by City Councilmembers. Whether you live nearby or are exploring a new part of town, you’re invited to bring a blanket, grab a bite, and enjoy an evening of local music in the park.

FORWARD is always free and open to everyone.

Schedule

5:00 p.m. | Get ready!

Come early to grab dinner and settle in. Food and drink vendors begin serving at 5:00 p.m. The music starts at 5:30. Lawn chairs, blankets, coolers, and picnics are welcome.

5:30 p.m. | Tennessee Stiffs

With haunting vocals and cinematic grit, Tennessee Stiffs fuse Americana and Southern rock into a sound that’s raw, foot-stomping, and deeply atmospheric. Born in Austin and now based in Minnesota, this band brings a ghost-story soul to every set.

6:30 p.m. | Wild Horses

Led by songwriter Jed LaPlant, Wild Horses deliver rootsy Americana rock packed with energy, storytelling, and big-hearted jams. Their powerful live shows combine harmony-rich vocals, driving rhythms, and a commitment to connection through music.

Who's Onsite This Week

The Art Stop: This week’s creative activity station will be hosted by Willow Gentile, offering hands-on fun for kids and families during the concert.

Food Vendors: TBA. Vendors will begin serving at 5:00 p.m.

About the series

Each FORWARD show features two bands, food trucks, and free activities for all ages. The Rochester Public Library Bookmobile, Parks & Recreation’s Mobile Rec trailer, and The Art Stop will all be on-site during the concert with books, games, and creative fun for kids and families.

Bring a blanket, invite your neighbors, and enjoy the evening together.

Live captioning is available on your phone or tablet at streamtext.net/player.

More about FORWARD here