Woonsocket Gears Up for Another Summer of Free Music at River Island Art Park

The sounds of summer are set to return to downtown Woonsocket as the 2026 Levitt AMP Woonsocket Music Series kicks off its eighth season of free Friday night concerts at River Island Art Park.

Running from June 12 through August 21 (with no concert on July 3), the family-friendly series has become one of Woonsocket’s signature summer traditions, bringing nationally touring musicians, local artists, food vendors, community organizations, and neighbors together along the Blackstone River.

The 2026 season lineup was officially unveiled during NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley’s Band Release Party and inaugural Battle of the Bands competition held at Millrace Event Space in downtown Woonsocket. Local band Honeycomb Lately took home the top honor and earned the opportunity to open for Rhode Island favorites Steve Smith & the Naked Truth during the July 10 concert.

Each concert evening runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and includes a local opening act, touring headliner, food trucks, family activities, community resource tables, vendors, and an on-site bar hosted by Ciro’s Tavern and Savini’s Pomodoro.

Presented by NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley in partnership with the City of Woonsocket, Downtown Woonsocket Collaborative, and O-N Radio Worldwide, the series continues to draw visitors from across Rhode Island and Massachusetts while creating a vibrant community gathering space in the heart of the city.

This year’s lineup features an eclectic mix of genres ranging from soul and Americana to Afrobeat, Zydeco, country, Latin music, bluegrass, indie rock, and reggae.

The season opens June 12 with powerhouse vocalist Shayna Steele, known for blending soul, jazz, and blues while performing alongside artists including Chris Botti and Moby and appearing in Broadway productions such as RENT and Hairspray.

On June 19, indie folk and Americana artist Lizzie No brings her acclaimed songwriting and harp-driven sound to Woonsocket following appearances at Newport Folk Festival and AmericanaFest.

June 26 celebrates the international spirit of soccer during the Summer of Soccer themed night featuring Kaleta & Super Yamba Band, whose electrifying Afrobeat sound draws inspiration from the musical traditions of Benin and Nigeria.

Rhode Island music legends Steve Smith & the Naked Truth headline the July 10 concert, joined by Battle of the Bands winners Honeycomb Lately as the opening act. The evening will also celebrate the inaugural Woonie Crit cycling event.

The high-energy sounds continue July 17 with Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers, one of the most dynamic modern acts carrying forward the traditions of Zydeco music.

Cape Cod-based Crooked Coast brings its genre-blending mix of reggae, punk, hip-hop, and alternative rock to River Island Art Park on July 24 after recently being named the 2025 New England Music Awards Artist of the Year.

Country fans can look forward to acclaimed singer-songwriter Sunny Sweeney on July 31, while August 7 features innovative banjo player Tray Wellington, whose work fuses bluegrass, jazz, folk, and hip-hop influences.

On August 14, Latin music takes center stage with Bachata Pop artist Domenic Marte as the city builds excitement for Woonsocket’s inaugural Puerto Rican Festival later that month.

The season concludes August 21 with indie favorite Bermuda Search Party, known for energetic performances and uplifting songwriting that have earned the band appearances at major festivals including Boston Calling and SXSW.

In addition to the music, several concerts throughout the season will feature special community themes and collaborations. Planned celebrations include a Community Collaborative Fair with the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Rhode Island and Woonsocket Head Start on June 12, CCF Family Night on July 17, a Grow Smart RI celebration on July 24, an RI 250 celebration on July 31, and events connected to Woonsocket’s inaugural Puerto Rican Festival on August 14.

Since launching in 2018, the Levitt AMP Woonsocket Music Series has transformed River Island Art Park into a weekly community destination and has become one of the city’s most visible cultural initiatives. Organizers say the concerts are designed not only to provide free entertainment, but also to strengthen community connections, support local businesses, and showcase downtown Woonsocket as a welcoming and vibrant place to gather.

Additional information, sponsorship opportunities, and the full concert schedule are available through NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley