Portsmouth Summer Music Series Set After Needham Bank Steps In

PORTSMOUTH, NH — Pro Portsmouth's Summer in the Street is returning in 2026 after funding questions followed the 2025 defunding of the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts.

Pro Portsmouth said the loss of grant support had left the downtown program in doubt until Needham Bank stepped in as a new partner.

“Summer in the Street brings people together through music, community and the shared experience of enjoying downtown Portsmouth,” Jessica Friswell, the director of foundation and community relations at Needham Bank. “We are proud to support Pro Portsmouth in keeping this beloved summer tradition vibrant and accessible for residents, visitors, and local businesses alike.”

The music series began in 2003 as a pilot program to identify pedestrian-friendly street closures. The organization said the event invites the public back to Downtown Portsmouth for music on Pleasant Street, where the road will be closed on each designated evening from 4 to 9 p.m.

Vehicular traffic and parking on Pleasant Street will be prohibited during those hours, according to the announcement. Pro Portsmouth said the series will take place each Saturday evening from July 4 through Aug. 1, with performances scheduled, weather permitting, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Performances

The 2026 season is set to begin July 4, with the Seacoast Wind Ensemble performing a “Pleasant Street Pops Concert.”

View all information about the performers here.

• July 11: The Portsmouth Music & Art Center’s New Horizons Band

• July 18: The Shanty Crew from The Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival

• July 25: T.J. Wheeler & Hatrack Gallagher

• Aug. 1: Seacoast Wind Ensemble

More Info

The organization said attendees should plan for a pedestrian-friendly setup on Pleasant Street and encouraged people to BYOC (bring your own chair).

Pro Portsmouth also said guests may bring a nosh and a beverage, but asked that they bring no alcohol. In addition to Needham Bank, the group said this year's program partners include Lonza, Mass General Brigham Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, and Ocean Properties.

Support for the music series is still being sought, according to the announcement, and donations may be made through Pro Portsmouth's online campaign. The organization also said more information about Pro Portsmouth, including volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, is available at proportsmouth.org or by contacting Barbara Massar at 603-433-4398.