Experience a magical evening of jazz under the stars at Recreation Park’s historic Bandshell. On **Saturday, August 2, 2025**, the **Free Jazz at The Shell** concert returns as part of the **7 Saturdays of Summer** series—absolutely **free admission** and open to all.

 

What Is Free Jazz at The Shell?

 

Hosted by **Live at The Shell**, a local nonprofit dedicated to revitalizing the Bandshell, this event spotlights local and regional jazz artists for a two-hour evening performance beginning at approximately **5:30 PM**. Bring your picnic blanket or grab a bench on the shaded lawn—it’s a relaxed, community‑focused experience designed to celebrate jazz in a beautiful outdoor setting.

 

This performance marks **Week 5** of the **7 Saturdays of Summer** schedule, which kicked off July 12 and runs through August 23. Other themed installments have included yacht rock, bluegrass, choral music, line dancing, and gospel.

 

Why the Bandshell Matters for Long Beach Jazz Fans

 

The **Recreation Park Bandshell**, built in 1929 and designated a historic landmark, is a century‑old Spanish Revival gem tucked into the city's southeast. Its colorful tilework and warm acoustics create an inviting ambiance for live music. After several dormant years, **Friends of the Rec Park Bandshell** and **Live at The Shell** have restored vibrancy to the space with this series of free concerts. 

 

What started as a handful of events has grown into a standout summer program: last year alone, attendance ballooned to hundreds per show—with a packed bluegrass festival drawing more than 1,000.

 

What to Expect at the Event on August 9

 

The evening begins at **4:30 PM** with pre‑concert activities and early seating; the jazz set itself runs about **4:30–7 PM**. Expect a lineup of talented performers playing smooth jazz, swing, and improvisational sets. The event is weather‑friendly: shaded areas and bench seating are available, and picnics are encouraged.

 

Nearby Blair Field and the nearby community center ensure accessible parking and local dining options, but many attendees opt to walk or bike to the park. Commuters should plan to arrive early to secure a seat on the lawn or benches.

 

A Local Tradition with National Resonance

 

In a year that has seen renewed interest nationwide in local music venues and outdoor performance spaces, this concert series harks back to a community‑driven vision: preserving cultural landmarks while fostering local talent. The success at Recreation Park echoes a broader trend of revitalizing suburban performance spaces across the U.S.'s mid‑sized cities.

 

As cities nationwide invest in hybrid indoor‑outdoor venues ahead of the 2028 Olympics, Long Beach is quietly laying groundwork through grassroots initiatives like Live at The Shell. Their work supports a publicly accessible musical culture that’s both democratic and deeply local.

 

Final Thoughts & How to Join In

 

Whether you’re a longtime jazz lover or just looking for a relaxed evening of music and community, **Free Jazz at The Shell** on **August 9** should be on your calendar. Pack a blanket, invite friends, and enjoy jazz in one of Long Beach’s most beloved outdoor venues—free.

 

Want details on earlier shows in the series, artist lineups, or updates on upcoming Rec Park concerts? Visit Live at The Shell and plan your summer arts calendar. Sign up for our newsletter to catch full event stories and future Long Beach event guides.

 

 

Jazz performance as part of the 7‑week “Saturdays of Summer” concert series.

 

Date: August 2, 2025 · Time: evening (typically ~7 p.m.) ·

Location: Band Shell, Recreation Park · Admission: Free