CARBONDALE, Ill. (KFVS) - The Sunset Concert Series in Carbondale is returning for a 47th season with a variety of diverse musical performances.
There will be a total of six free outdoor concerts on each Thursday evening from June 11 through July 23, except for July 2.
Each family-friendly concert starts at 7 p.m. and lasts about two hours.
They will take place at alternating locations, with this year featuring an additional new venue.
Performances will alternate between the Shryock Auditorium lawn at the Southern Illinois University campus, Turley Park on the west side of town and the brand-new venue, the New Era Events Plaza, downtown on Washington Street.
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Organizers of this popular summertime tradition said this season’s lineup is appealing to all ages and tastes.
“We have some great new and different talent this year and I’m really excited about this lineup,” said Tena Bennett, assistant vice chancellor for auxiliary enterprises and student affairs, in a released statement. “SIU is pleased to again partner with the City of Carbondale and the Carbondale Park District to present entertaining summer nights enjoyable for everyone.”
The following is the 2026 Sunset Concert Series schedule and links to the artists performing:
- June 11 at Shryock lawn: Shane Guerrette-Americana/roots-rock/modern indie
- June 18 at Turley Park: Shawn Holt and the Teardrops- Blues
- June 25 at New Era Events Plaza: The Way Down Wanderers- Alternative Americana
- July 9 at New Era Events Plaza: Funky Butt Brass Band- Brass/funk/soul
- July 16 at Turley Park: Goldpine- Americana
- July 23 at Shryock lawn: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers- Zydeco
Concertgoers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and refreshments. Food and drinks will also be available for purchase from on-site vendors.
Glass bottles, kegs, smoking, grilling, solicitation and underage drinking are banned. These bans will be enforced. Only single-serve containers are permitted.
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Pets are allowed, but must be leashed.
For more information, visit sunset.siu.edu, call 618-453-5714 or follow the Office of Student Engagement on Facebook or Instagram.
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