This summer, Banner Elk, North Carolina is dialing up the excitement with its inaugural Summer of Music series, transforming this mountain town into a destination for music lovers, families, and adventure-seeking travelers.
Spanning from June 1 through Labor Day, the Summer of Music program brings more than 90 performances to town, offering something for every taste and age.
An Unforgettable Summer Lineup
National icons and rising stars are taking center stage in Banner Elk throughout the season. Music fans can look forward to performances by Country Music Hall of Famer Jimmy Fortune, bluegrass favorites Jim Lauderdale and Darin & Brooke Aldridge, and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer John Oates. The excitement continues with Gary Morris, whose voice soared through five number one country hits, bringing even more star power to the stage.
Classic music fans won’t want to miss the FORUM music series, featuring top tribute acts paying homage to legendary artists. Enjoy the vibrant energy of Miami Sound Revue, the singalong magic of Bee Gees Now, and the nostalgia of Liverpool Legends, a Beatles tribute band endorsed by George Harrison’s own sister. Other highlights include Tapestry The Carole King Songbook and Neil Diamond Experience.
Free Concerts All Week Long
Banner Elk’s summer isn’t just about headliners. Almost every day, visitors will find free live music echoing across the mountains. Thursday evenings bring Concerts in the Park at the town amphitheater, offering laid-back, family-friendly vibes and performances from regional acts like The Extraordinaires, Funkupation, and The Rewind, an energetic tribute to the ‘80s.
On Friday and Saturday nights, the Village of Banner Elk’s open-air stage comes alive with local favorites like Throw Down Jones, Gotcha Groove, and Adam Church. Sam Fanthorpe, an acclaimed singer-songwriter, leads the “Sundays with Sam” series every week at Kettell Beerworks, rounding out the weekend with mellow afternoon tunes.
Long-running venues such as Banner Elk Café also get in on the action, hosting top local and regional musicians on Friday and Saturday nights, while Lees-McRae Summer Theater lights up the Hayes Auditorium with multi-night musicals perfect for all ages.
Even More Ways to Experience Mountain Music
The summer music celebration isn’t limited to downtown. Nearby Grandfather Winery & Vineyard and Beech Mountain Resort’s Summer Concert Series add even more variety, bringing the region’s total to more than 100 events from the start of June through Labor Day.
Music is more than a pastime in Banner Elk, especially as the community continues to thrive and recover after Hurricane Helene. Locals and visitors alike are invited to come together and enjoy unforgettable moments among the peaks.
Plan Your Summer Escape
With a packed schedule of music ranging from country to classic rock tributes, plus free concerts for families and visitors almost every night, Banner Elk’s Summer of Music is the season’s must-experience event.
To see the full schedule, find ticket information, and start planning your music-filled getaway, visit Banner Elk’s official events calendar. Whether you’re a lifelong music lover or just looking for a family adventure in the mountains, Banner Elk promises a summer you’ll never forget.
