Nanaimo is bringing more live music to local parks than ever before this spring and summer.
The City of Nanaimo announced last week the return of its free Concerts in the Park series, featuring 16 artists across 14 concert dates in parks throughout the city.
Officials say it is the largest lineup in the program’s history, with performances spanning a wide range of genres including blues, bluegrass, folk, reggae, ska, hip hop, rap, pop, country and soul music.
“With more performances than ever before, the 2026 program features 16 artists and showcases the exceptional musical talent and diversity Nanaimo is known for,” the city said in a statement. “This popular community series invites residents and visitors to enjoy live local music while experiencing the beauty of Nanaimo’s parks.”
The series began last Wednesday with Terry Boyle performing at Westwood Lake Park as peart of Earth Day celebrations.
Concerts will also be held at several other city parks and venues including Maffeo Sutton Park, Bowen Park Amphitheatre, Kin Park, Mansfield Park and Deverill Square Park.
New this year are three lunchtime concerts running from 1-2 p.m.
Several performances are tied to larger community events, including Food Truck Friday, Go by Bike week, Snuneymuxw Days and End of Summer Splash.
Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket and dress for the weather. The city notes parking is limited at some parks and suggests using alternative transportation where possible.
The remaning concert dates are below and are also available on the city’s website.
Friday, May 15, 6-7 pm, Maffeo Sutton Park: Murfitt and Main (Bluegrass Banjo) as part of Food Truck Friday
Wednesday, June 3, 6-7 pm, Mansfield Park: Shel Prince (Folk) as part of Go by Bike Week
Wednesday, June 10, 1-2 pm, Maffeo Sutton Park: Jared Popma and Band (Folk)
Wednesday, June 17, 6-7 pm, Kin Park: Donny Boyd and Fine Company (Rock)
Friday, June 26, 5:30-6:30 pm, Maffeo Sutton Park: Chris Noel and the Burning House (Roots/Blues) as part of summer soccer viewing party
Friday, June 26, 6:45-7:45 pm, Maffeo Sutton Park: New Road Echo (Country Rock) as part of summer soccer viewing party
Wednesday, July 8, Mansfield Park: 1-2 pm, Glen and Maggy (Folk)
Friday, July 17, 6-7 pm, Bowen Park Amphitheatre: Mad Riddim featuring Janelle Reid (Reggae/Ska)
Wednesday July 22, 6-7 pm, Deverill Square Park: Tangible Two (Hip Hop/Rap) as part of Snuneymuxw Days
Friday, July 31, 6-7 pm, Daynes Park: Mansfield (Folk)
Friday, August 7, 1-2 pm, Bowen Park Amphitheatre: Paul Gelman (Rock)
Wednesday, August 12, 6-7 pm, McGregor Park: Jordan Reems (Pop)
Friday, August 21, 6-7 pm, Maffeo Sutton Park: Tropic Mayhem (Pop) as part of Food Truck Friday
Friday, August 21, 7:15-8:15 pm, Maffeo Sutton Park: Mark Crissinger (Roots/Blues) as part of Food Truck Friday
Thursday, August 27, 6-7 pm, Westwood Lake Park: Tides (R&B/Soul) as part of End of Summer Splash