The Friends of Boudinot-Southard-Ross Estate (FoBSR) has announced the lineup for the 12th Annual Ross Farm Music Series, returning to the historic Ross Farm this spring through fall. The series brings acclaimed touring artists, regional talent, and the community together for outdoor concerts on one of Somerset County’s most storied historic properties.
The 2026 season presents a wide range of musical styles, from jazz and Americana to indie-folk and roots-rock, alongside community celebrations that reflect the series’ mission of music, community, and history.
FoBSR President David Becker says the series has become a signature cultural offering for the region, remarking “Ross Farm has always been a place where history, community, and creativity come together. The music series continues that legacy by bringing world-class artists and local audiences together in a setting that is uniquely Basking Ridge. The experience feels both timeless and alive.” Music Committee member Nola Hansen added, “This series is entirely powered by volunteers who care deeply about live music and community. From booking artists to greeting guests at the gate and cleaning up after everyone has gone home, this is a labor of love. At the same time, we invest in high-quality production, bringing in professional sound and lighting so every artist and every audience member has an exceptional experience.”
The season begins Saturday, May 9 with the Second Annual Ross Farm Jazz Fest, a full-day open-air festival featuring elite college and youth jazz ensembles and culminating with a performance by the Dave Stryker Quartet with Eric Alexander. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets and enjoy the day on the lawn. A raindate is set for Sunday, May 10.
On Saturday, June 6, acclaimed singer-songwriter Becca Stevens headlines the MainStage, with Katie Martucci opening the evening. Known for her genre-spanning sound that blends jazz, pop, folk, and indie influences, Stevens brings a captivating live presence to the stage.
On Saturday, June 13, Ross Farm hosts a special America 250 Flag Day celebration, presented in partnership with the Bernards Township America 250 Committee. This free community event includes historical interpretation, live music throughout the day, and a closing performance by top-tier crowd-pleasing bluegrass band AJ Lee & Blue Summit.
On Saturday, June 20, the dynamic and critically acclaimed Hurray for the Riff Raff performs with opener Free Range, offering a night of Americana, folk, and roots-based storytelling.
On Saturday, July 18, Ross Farm presents EmpowHER, an event celebrating women’s voices in music, arts, leadership, and community. The day-into-evening gathering features emerging regional artists, local organizations, and an evening concert headlined by Liz Longley, with Rachael Sage opening.
The series continues Saturday, Aug. 29 with Doc Robinson, bringing their uplifting blend of indie-soul and roots-rock back to the MainStage for their second Ross Farm concert.
Fresh off of his American Idol Top 14 experience, New Jersey’s own Jake Thistle comes back to the Farm with a full band on Saturday, Sept. 26.
The season closes Saturday, Oct. 3 with Joe Cirotti & Friends, honoring a century of guitar greats with this very special performance inside the historic Ross Farm barn.
A Historic Setting
The Ross Farm estate, owned by Somerset County and stewarded by FoBSR, is a significant site in the region’s Revolutionary-era history and has long served as a gathering place for the community. Hosting the music series on the grounds connects present-day audiences to that history in a meaningful way, where the past and present meet under the open sky.
Most concerts take place outdoors on the Ross Farm MainStage, set against the backdrop of the historic farmhouse. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, pack a picnic, and settle in for an evening of live music. Concerts are carry-in/carry-out, rain or shine, with free on-site parking.
Community Support
The Ross Farm Music Series is made possible through the generosity of local sponsors and the dedicated support of Band of Friends members. Their contributions directly fuel FoBSR’s mission, helping sustain the series, expand programming, and ensure that Ross Farm remains a place where music, history, and community thrive together.
Tickets & Information
Tickets, event details, and season information are available at RossFarm.org.
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