New Rochelle's '2024 Downtown Summer Sizzle' Kicks Off Saturday

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — The official start of the summer of sizzling free concerts is almost here.

The city of New Rochelle announced the "Downtown Summer Sizzle" concert series is back again for a second year. The family-friendly events promise "a memorable display of music, merriment, and community engagement all summer."

The series will kick off this Saturday, with a Memorial Day Party in Ruby Dee Park at Library Green, with local School of Rock chapters performing from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Full Count Big Band on the stage from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m., and The Steepwater Band performing at 7 p.m.

"Witnessing our community unite in joyous celebration of music, food, and homegrown entrepreneurship fills me with immense excitement, as it is a priority for us to continue with the community in new inventive ways, " New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert said. "Events like the Downtown Summer Sizzle and NRCA Concert series exemplify our commitment to fostering emerging talent and honoring the City's artistic heritage. As we embrace these new experiences we strengthen the bonds that knit our community together, fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment for all."

The series will then continue every Saturday through September 21 in Ruby Dee Park. All ages are invited to join in the fun.

The "Downtown Summer Sizzle" concert series has a lineup of over 50 performers, offering diverse music to cater to all ages and tastes. The organizers say that the performances will range from beloved generational acts performed by exceptional cover bands to original music from local bands and acts.

There will also be local food trucks, artisanal craft tents and interactive activities.

Attendees will be able to expect a range of tribute acts paying homage to some of the biggest names in music such as Aretha Franklin, The Temptations, Gladys Knight, Otis Redding, the Supremes, Elton John, U2, Bruce Springsteen, Fleetwood Mac and more. See the full lineup of this summer's performances here.

A series of special signature events, such as Pride, Hispanic Heritage and a Disney-themed family night, are also planned in conjunction with the concert series.

The "Mobile City Hall" initiative will also offer residents easy access to information about New Rochelle's programs and services.

"The 2024 Downtown Summer Sizzle presents a unique opportunity to spotlight New Rochelle as a rich cultural hub, uniting our community in a vibrant celebration of music, cuisine, and local innovation," Acting City Manager Wilfredo Melendez said. "Building upon the success of 2023, which saw increased public engagement with hosted cultural activities throughout New Rochelle, the City aims to implement more immersive events and gatherings that bring the public together. All at no cost to residents. We look forward to welcoming performers and creatives from across the country, while embracing more opportunities to enjoy the downtown and waterfront."

New Rochelle says that the "Downtown Summer Sizzle" Concert Series is part of its broader plan to enhance cultural experiences throughout the downtown area. The city partnered with PMF 97, a multimedia consultant, to organize the concert series and curate the lineup of performances.

"We are excited to build off of last year's incredible success with an impressive collection of musical talents for the second annual Downtown Summer Sizzle Concert Series," Dragan Chach Cacinovic, President of PMG97, said. "We have curated a diverse lineup of outstanding performers from every corner of the industry that truly caters to all music genres and styles — from multiple Grammy award-winning acts like the Phantom Blues Band and Spanish Harlem Orchestra, to globally renowned artists like Carlos Salgado, one of the original inspirations for the Blues Brothers, and Tito Puente Jr., following in his father's legendary footsteps on stage. We'll even welcome groups like Baywater, Steepwater, and Tusk that are taking breaks from their world tours and sold out overseas shows to perform for free for our residents here in New Rochelle!"

More information and updates on the "2024 Downtown Summer Sizzle," can be found here.