New Lakefront Stage Unveiled In Time For Summer Entertainment Series

COLUMBIA, MD — The new Lakefront Stage has opened in time for the Columbia Association's free summer entertainment series, Lakefront Live.

The state-of-the-art structure replaces the temporary canopy under which community performances and events were held before thousands of visitors.

“(This) marks an important milestone for Columbia as we open the new Lakefront Stage, a space built to elevate the arts and strengthen community connection," said Columbia Association President and CEO Shawn MacInnes. “This stage represents far more than a new venue - it’s the result of years of collaboration and investment in Columbia’s future. It’s a place designed to bring people together and create lasting memories for generations.”

Construction on the nearly 900-square-foot stage began in November 2025 and was completed in May 2026. The new structure is designed to elevate a wide range of performances and community programming, and features dynamic color-changing LED theatrical lighting, professional-grade concert audio with permanent monitors and subwoofer, and a retractable rear-projection movie screen.

The summer fun at the Lakefront Stage started with a community block party and includes upcoming celebrations for Juneteenth, Teen Night, a Fourth of July celebration and Pride in July.

There also will be concerts and movie nights at the new stage including Kyaira, Chasing Straights, Dom Flemons and The Traveling Wildfires, and Alysha Brilla.

The full schedule can be viewed here.

“The Lakefront has always been Columbia’s central gathering place, and the Merriweather Arts and Culture Center is honored to partner with the Columbia Association to present world-class performances in the heart of our community,” Merriweather Arts and Culture Center Executive Director Ian Kennedy. “With the opening of this stunning new venue we now have a stage that reflects the quality of the artists who perform here, the beauty of the natural surroundings and the importance of the arts to Columbia.”