Music by the River: A summer 2026 Concert Series
Free Live Music. Local Treats. Riverside Vibes.
Experience summer Evenings in Cherokee, NC
Experience the heart of Cherokee this spring at Music by the River, our premier outdoor concert series. As the sun dips below the mountains, the banks of the Oconaluftee River come alive with the sounds of regional artists and local favorites.
Running every Friday and Saturday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, this free event is the perfect way to spend a mountain evening. Whether you’re winding down after a day of hiking the Smokies or looking for a family-friendly night out, join us at the Cherokee Welcome Center for a season of unforgettable performances.
2026 Spring Lineup & Schedule
When: Fridays & Saturdays | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Cherokee Welcome Center (498 Tsalagi Road)
April 24–25
Holden Le Dinh
Kick off the season with soulful melodies and a unique indie-fusion sound.
May 8–9
Lori & The Freightshakers & Robert Wolfe
Soulful Americana that perfectly matches the river’s flow.
June 5th
Moody! Lite
MOODY! Lite is an award-winning, high-energy variety band that performs a wide range of popular music, creating unforgettable entertainment.
June 6th
Holler & Crowe
Specializing in whimsical folk fusion magic: music that makes listeners of all ages feel both transported and right at home.
June 12th and 13th
Carbon Harry
Award-winning trio of young musicians (ages 11–13) who write original songs, known for clever lyrics, catchy hooks, and a genre-blending sound all their own.
June 19th
Silk Groove
High-energy group performing hits from the ’50s to today, recreating the classic harmonies and showmanship of legends like The Temptations,
The Four Tops, The Stylistics, and The Manhattans.
June 20th
J creek Cloggers
The J Creek Cloggers are a dance team blending traditional Appalachian clogging with a modern, high-energy style.
June 26th
Lori & The Freightshakers
Lori & The Freightshakers will leave you shaking on the dance floor with their upbeat music. Be ready for an unforgettable shakin’ show!
June 27th
Wiregrass
Bluegrass and Americana band that blends traditional roots influences with a modern acoustic energy built for live performance.
July 3rd
whiskey mountain band
Whiskey Mountain Band delivers electrifying performances filled with high-energy classic rock and dance tunes and a touch of blues and country.
July 10th and 11th
sugah and thuh cubes
Sugah and Thuh Cubes is known for their fiery brand of smoky sweet soul music that hits you right in the chest and pulls you out onto the dance floor.
July 17th
MOODY! Lite
MOODY! Lite is an award-winning, high-energy variety band that performs a wide range of popular music, creating unforgettable entertainment.
July 18th
X99
From grunge to 90s radio hits, X99 brings the alt-rock anthems that defined a generation. A high-energy set that keeps the crowd singing and the night going.
July 24th
Craig Vaughn Experience
Craig Vaughn combines extraordinary musicianship with heavy-duty FUN! His high energy blend of rock, blues, pop & acoustic music equals unforgettable moments.
July 25th
Derek Galarza
Singer-songwriter of rhythmic proportions that ranges in percussive beat-like fashions: of influences from genres such as pop, rock, and folk artists of the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and 2000s.
July 31st
X99
From grunge to 90s radio hits, X99 brings the alt-rock anthems that defined a generation. A high-energy set that keeps the crowd singing and the night going.
august 1st
whiskey mountain band
Whiskey Mountain Band delivers electrifying performances filled with high-energy classic rock and dance tunes and a touch of blues and country.
August 7th
Bradley dulaney Band
Playing a mix of contemporary Christian, Christian rock, and classical hymns, the Bradley Dulaney Band shares uplifting music for audience of all ages.
August 8th
Blackbeard’s Truck
Playing a mix of your favorite rock hits through the decades and original music, Blackbeard’s Truck keeps the party going.
August 14th
Craig vaughn
Craig Vaughn combines extraordinary musicianship with heavy-duty FUN! His high energy blend of rock, blues, pop & acoustic music equals unforgettable moments.
August 15th
holler and crow
Specializing in whimsical folk fusion magic; music that makes listeners of all ages feel both transported and right at home.
August 21st & 22nd
Holden le Dinh
Holden Le Dinh is a Georgia-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist performing a unique mix of indie pop, R&B, and alternative music.
August 28th & 29th
the sabella Band
The Sabella Band is a high-energy group that delivers lively, crowd-pleasing performances. Their infectious energy keeps people on their feet and the dance floor going all night!
The Riverside Experience: Why We Love It
There is a reason Music by the River is a staple for both locals and visitors. The Kanunohi Park Stage provides a tranquil, open-air setting right behind the Cherokee Welcome Center, offering the ultimate backdrop for live entertainment.
Grab a Local Treat
We encourage you to stop by and support our local vendors. Whether you’re craving a classic mountain snack or a refreshing drink, grabbing a treat and finding a spot on the grass is the ultimate way to enjoy the live performance by the river.
Family & Pet Friendly Atmosphere
The park’s layout offers plenty of space for kids to dance and enjoy the outdoors. Well-behaved, leashed pets are also welcome to join the fun, making it a true community gathering.
Know Before You Go: Event Details
Extend Your Stay in Cherokee
Don’t let the music end the night! Make it a full Cherokee weekend and explore the beauty of the Qualla Boundary.
Fire Mountain Trails
