Concerts in the Plaza Brings Free Live Music Back to Downtown St. Augustine

If your summer calendar’s looking a little bare on Thursday evenings, the City of St. Augustine’s got you covered — for free.

Concerts in the Plaza returns on Thursday, May 28th, kicking off 15 consecutive weeks of live music right in the heart of downtown at the Plaza de la Constitución. Every Thursday from 6 to 8pm through September 3rd, you can pull up a chair, soak in the open air, and let the music do the rest. There’s something genuinely special about an outdoor concert at the Plaza. It’s one of those spots that has seen centuries of community life, and on these Thursday evenings it becomes exactly what a public square is supposed to be — a place where neighbors run into each other, kids dance on the grass, and strangers end up chatting like old friends. No ticket required, no dress code, no agenda. Just good music and good company in one of the most beautiful settings St. Augustine has to offer.

The series runs all the way into early September, which means you’ve got plenty of chances to make it a regular part of your week. Whether you’re a longtime local who’s been coming to these concerts for years or you’ve never caught a show at the Plaza before, this summer’s lineup gives everyone a reason to head downtown on a Thursday night. Grab dinner at one of the nearby spots on St. George Street or Cathedral Place beforehand, then wander over to the Plaza in time for the opening notes.

The full lineup is available at www.CityStAug.com/Concerts — worth a look so you can plan ahead and make sure you don’t miss a genre or artist you’re excited about.

–Full Schedule of Events–

US Navy Band • June 4, 2026
Founded in 1925, the US Navy’s premier musical organization, known for their world-class performances that range from ceremonial marches and patriotic music to jazz, country, rock, and contemporary arrangements.

The Palmetto Pickers • June 11, 2026
Compiling the best of country, rock, and blues, this re-formed gaggle of musicians with decades of experience, fronted by Deandra James delivers performances of familiar favorites with easygoing energy.

Big Papa Fish • June 18, 2026
Big Papa Fish delivers a high-energy blend of blues and rock driven by soulful vocals and sharp guitar work. Led by bassist and singer Ace Winn, the trio puts a fresh spin on traditional blues standards while mixing in original and classic songs.

JC Hatfield and Friends • June 25, 2026
The JC Hatfield trio delivers a rich Americana and country sound built on laid-back storytelling. Led by singer and harmonica player JC Hatfield, expect original performances that feel both timeless and deeply authentic.

Hendricks Band • July 2, 2026
Hendricks Band blends Americana, country, and classic rock into a warm, easygoing sound led by husband and wife Bryson and Amy Hendricks. Their performances mix original music with classic favorites.

Los Van Guardias • July 9, 2026
Los Van Guardias delivers an energetic mix of Spanish pop and rock infused with Latin jazz and flamenco influences, creating a vibrant sound that is sure to keep you dancing.

Ancient City Slickers • July 16, 2026
Bringing a lively blend of bluegrass, folk, and classic Americana- the Ancient City Slickers are known for their eclectic instrumentation. Kazoo, washboard, slide whistle- you name it.

Thick & Thin String Band • July 23, 2026
This trio of singer-songwriters delivers a polished performance marked by tight harmonies, careful instrumentation, and a steady bass line that holds everything together. You can expect original music blended with classic rock and folk favorites, highlighting their roots.

Shayla Nelson • July 30, 2026
Shayla Nelson grew up in St. Augustine, and began singing at a young age. Musically gifted, she also plays guitar, piano, and the ukulele. You can expect her to perform a variety of covers, as well as her own songs.

STR8UP • August 6, 2026
Jacksonville-based STR8UP delivers high-energy performances blending Motown, funk, rock, pop, country, and R&B into crowd-pleasing live shows. Known throughout Northeast Florida for their dynamic stage presence, the band has shared the stage with legendary artists including Little Richard, George Clinton, and Wilson Pickett.

Dewey Via Band • August 13, 2026
St. Augustine musician Dewey Via is known throughout Northeast Florida for his high-energy performances blending rock, bluegrass, country, and southern rock with powerful vocals and masterful guitar work. A longtime local favorite, Via has earned multiple “Best Local Band/Performer” honors and built a loyal following through dynamic live shows that range from classic covers to original music.

Glory Tributes • August 20, 2026
Jacksonville-based Glory Tributes is a high-energy dance band celebrating iconic female artists across generations and genres, from Madonna and Pat Benatar to Rihanna and Taylor Swift. Known for their crowd-pleasing performances and nostalgic setlists, the band brings a lively mix of pop, rock, disco, country, and R&B hits to stages across Northeast Florida

The Groove Coalition • August 27, 2026
Groove Coalition is a Jacksonville-based band known for its energetic blend of soul, funk, R&B, jazz, and classic hits from the 1970s and 1980s. Led by bassist and vocalist Tommy Bridgewater, the group has become a Northeast Florida favorite for its dance-worthy performances and tribute shows honoring artists like Prince, Chaka Khan, and Mary J. Blige.

Zaza Flamenca • September 3, 2026
Yael Dray, known professionally as ZaZa Flamenca, is an internationally inspired singer, songwriter, and guitarist blending flamenco, jazz, Latin, French, and world music into vibrant live performances. Born in Paris and raised in Tel Aviv, Dray has performed at renowned venues around the world and has become a standout presence on Northeast Florida’s live music scene.

 

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