August brings a full stage of live music across the Great Lakes Bay Region

Looking for an easy way to spend a summer evening? From free concerts in downtown Midland to weekend festivals celebrating local music and culture, these August events offer affordable ways to get outside, support local communities and enjoy live entertainment across the Great Lakes Bay Region.

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Whether you’re looking for a lively downtown concert, a weekend-long music festival, or an evening of dancing under the pavilion, August offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region.

The Commons Live Music series draws a large crowd to the Pedestrian Plaza stage, located at the intersection of McDonald and Main Street.
Crystal Gwizdala – The Commons Live Music series draws a large crowd to downtown.

The Commons Live Music Series

Every Friday and Saturday in August from 7 to 9 p.m.
Location: Pedestrian Plaza Stage, Main and McDonald streets, Downtown Midland
Admission: Free

For many Midlanders, weekends in August mean heading downtown for The Commons Live Music Series. Hosted by the Midland Downtown Development Authority, the free outdoor concert series transforms the city’s pedestrian plaza into a gathering place where residents and visitors can enjoy live music while dining on restaurant patios or relaxing in lawn chairs.

The series showcases a variety of Michigan bands spanning classic rock, country, pop, funk, and tribute performances, making it easy to find something for nearly every musical taste. Guests can purchase food and drinks from nearby downtown businesses and enjoy them in the Commons social district while taking in the performances. Concerts continue rain or shine throughout the summer.

August lineup:

  • Aug. 7: The Sinclairs Band
  • Aug. 8: JP & The Energy
  • Aug. 14: The Family Tradition Band
  • Aug. 15: BandWagon
  • Aug. 21: Triple Play
  • Aug. 22: PTxD Emo & Pop-Punk Tribute
  • Aug. 28: Miranda & the M80s
  • Aug. 29: Todd Michael & Johnny Guest Band

Frankenmuth Summer Music Fest

Aug. 12–15
Location: Harvey Kern Pavilion, Heritage Park, Frankenmuth
Admission: Tickets Online

Now in its 42nd year, the Frankenmuth Summer Music Fest remains one of the country’s premier polka festivals. The four-day event celebrates the region’s German and Eastern European heritage with continuous live entertainment, dancing and performances from nationally recognized polka bands and musicians.

Festivalgoers can expect music from morning into the evening, a spacious dance floor, traditional festival food and beverages, and an atmosphere that draws visitors from across the Midwest. While rooted in polka traditions, the festival welcomes audiences of all ages looking to experience one of Michigan’s most unique musical celebrations.


Bay City Moose Music Festival

Aug. 21–23
Location: Bay City Moose Lodge
Admission: $5

The annual Bay City Moose Music Festival offers three days of live entertainment featuring local and regional country, rock and classic hits. Along with continuous music throughout the weekend, the event includes food vendors, beverages, raffles and camping, creating a laid-back atmosphere that has become a late-summer tradition for many area residents.

The festival highlights regional talent while giving attendees the opportunity to spend an entire weekend enjoying live music in an outdoor setting.


Author

Misty Barron is a Mid-Michigan native who has proudly called Midland her home for the past six years. She served as Editor-in-Chief for the Delta Collegiate, where she earned various awards for her writing, including Journalist of the Year in 2023 from the Michigan Community College Press Association. In her free time, Misty enjoys spending time with family and friends and enjoying all our beautiful state has to offer.

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