Free Harlem Meer Concert Series Returns To Central Park For 33rd Summer

HARLEM, NY — A daytime summer tradition is returning to the lush north end of Central Park, where the Central Park Conservancy will once again host its annual Harlem Meer Performance Festival.

Now in its 33rd year, the free concert series has been bringing live music to the scenic area since 1993.

This year's six-show lineup begins Sunday, July 12, with performances taking place on select Sundays at 2 p.m. at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center overlooking the Harlem Meer.

The 2026 lineup features a mix of jazz, Latin, soul and contemporary artists, including Casa Mantequilla, The Grace Young Experience, Kobie Dozier, Uptown Royalty, M.A.R. Quintet and the Ray Delgado Project.

Each concert will also include a brief intermission during which Central Park Conservancy staff will share insights into the organization's work caring for and maintaining the park.

The festival schedule is:

• Sunday, July 12: Casa Mantequilla
• Sunday, July 26: The Grace Young Experience
• Sunday, Aug. 2: Kobie Dozier
• Sunday, Aug. 9: Uptown Royalty
• Sunday, Aug. 16: M.A.R. Quintet
• Sunday, Aug. 23: Ray Delgado Project

There will be no performance on Sunday, July 19, as Central Park hosts one of the world's largest public watch parties for the FIFA World Cup Final on the Great Lawn.

All performances are free and begin at 2 p.m. at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, located at the north end of Central Park.

For questions, email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com.