Music by the River: A Spring 2026 Concert Series

Free Live Music. Local Treats. Riverside Vibes.

Experience Spring 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 9:00 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 Kanunohi Park Stage for a season of unforgettable performances.

2026 Spring Lineup & Schedule

When: Fridays & Saturdays | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Where: Kanunohi Park Stage (960 Tsalagi Road)

April 24–25

Holden Le Dinh

Kick off the season with soulful melodies and a unique indie-fusion sound.

May 1–2

Crocodile Smile & Robert Wolfe

A weekend of high-energy rock and community favorites.

May 8–9

Lori & The Freightshakers & Robert Wolfe

Soulful Americana that perfectly matches the river’s flow.

May 15–16

Derek Galarza

Captivating acoustic sets for a mid-May getaway.

May 29–30

Kayla McKinney

Closing out the spring series with powerful country and folk vocals.

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.

Closeup of river, on a green background.

Know Before You Go: Event Details

Admission: 100% Free and open to the public.
Seating: Seating is not provided. We recommend bringing your favorite lawn chairs or blankets.
Parking: Ample free parking is available at the Cherokee Welcome Center and nearby public lots.
Weather: In the event of rain, stay tuned to the Visit Cherokee NC social media channels for real-time updates on moves or rescheduling.

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.

Dine Locally: From traditional flavors to modern eats, explore our Dining Guide.
Book a Room: Stay close to the action at a nearby hotel or scenic campground. Find Lodging.
Play All Day: Before the 6pm start, explore the Oconaluftee Indian Village or hike to Mingo Falls.