Capital Region Amphitheater Announces New Free Summer Series

Courtesy of Jefferson City News Tribune

March 26, 2025. Capital Region Amphitheater has announced a free, four-concert summer series.

For the first time in the amphitheater's six years of operation, the venue will offer a four-concert summer series held the first Thursday of the month from June through September, featuring local musicians as main acts and openers.

"It was a top priority for us to keep this series truly local," said Rich Thompson, executive director of VenuWorks. "Each performer was carefully chosen to showcase the incredible talent found right here in our own backyard."

Titling it "Big Fans of JCMO," the concert series was made possible through support of local businesses and organizations.

"We felt the name "Big Fans of JCMO" both celebrates the local musicians, sponsors and vendors who have come together to make the concert series possible," said Ashley Wiskirchen, community relations manager for JC Parks and Recreation.

Bands, sound and light performers, security and events staff, marketing, backstage expenses and hospitality have all been covered by four contribution levels. Thompson said VenuWorks has raised 75 percent of its goal of $25,000 for the series through donations.

The upcoming shows are:

June 4 -- The Dave Bucker Band with special guest Clay Benne.

July 2 -- Forrest McCurren with special guest Chloe Hecker.

Aug. 6 -- Bobby Showers Band with special guest Downside Up.

Sept. 3 -- Five Turn Knot with special guest Stalegrind.

Each of the four concerts will offer a sponsored Kids Zone with activities and interactive experiences for children and families. The Kids Zone will open up the lawn seating area with yard games and activities for youths.

Kids Zone sponsors will provide activities like cornhole, oversized Jenga, bubbles, tie-dye and other activities like agricultural education booths, according to Wiskirchen.

The open area of the lawn can be seen from everywhere in the venue, which will allow parents and guardians the ability to let youths play while enjoying the live music atmosphere.

The amphitheater will run its grill at every concert, serving burgers, bratwurst and hot dogs. New to this year's menu will be a three-cheese grilled cheese sandwich.

Each of the season's concerts will have different local food trucks offering food items.

No tickets will be required to enter any of the concerts, and people are free to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets to each show. At each gate, security and event staff will be present for the safety of every guest. Prohibited items can be found at www.crmuamphitheater.com/p/plan/accessibility.