Middletown’s popular Music in Middletown series returns this summer with a slate of free, family-friendly concerts running from July through August at Second Beach and Paradise Valley Park.
The season opens Wednesday, July 1, with an America 250 celebration from 6 to 9:15 p.m. at Second Beach, 315 Sachuest Point Road. Hosted by the town’s America 250 Committee, the family-friendly event will feature a free show by the Down City Band, food trucks and fireworks sponsored by BankNewport, marking the highlight of the volunteer group’s effort to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary. The rain date is July 6.
The Music in Middletown series itself opens Monday, July 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. with folk by Princess June at Paradise Valley Park, 19 Prospect Ave. The park will host free shows each Monday at 6 p.m. through July before the series shifts to Second Beach in August.
“We’re really excited about this year’s list of shows,” said Will Cronin, who oversees Middletown’s beaches and parks. “We’ve gotten excellent feedback about the series in the past and each of these bands come highly recommended.”
The Monday-night lineup, weather permitting, continues at Paradise Valley Park with soul by Chelley Knight & The Dope Things on July 13, covers by Matt & Jimmy Live on July 20 and indie rock by The Naticks on July 27. The series then moves to Second Beach with classic rock by BarFly on Aug. 3, covers by the Jesse Liam Band on Aug. 10 and covers by Roger Ceresi & The All Starz on Aug. 17. A performer for Aug. 24 is to be announced, and the season closes Aug. 31 with reggae by Newport legends The Ravers, along with fireworks, food trucks and more. Each show features food trucks, and most include games and other activities.
Cronin noted that all the shows are alcohol- and drug-free events that emphasize a family-friendly atmosphere. “In the past, each of the concerts has been really well attended and with this year’s lineup, this should be no different,” he said. “These shows are one of the touchstones of our summer here in Middletown and we hope they’re memorable for everyone who goes.”
Middletown launched the beachside concert series in 2019 and expanded it to Paradise Valley Park in 2023, where guests are treated to more intimate shows along with food trucks and games. More information about each performance is available at mdl.town/Music-2026.
