Live music in Plainfield, NJ

The outdoor patio at Butch Kowals Tavern hosts an evening of acoustic music spanning the 60s and beyond.

Part of the UCPAC Summer Arts Camp Series, this one-week, in-person program invites children ages 7 to 12 to discover Latin percussion in a lively, beginner-friendly setting. With instruction from the Percussion Gateway Project, campers explore clave patterns and conga rhythms while learning about the traditions and cultural stories that give this music its power. The week focuses on hands-on practice and creative exploration, helping each child find their own groove and build confidence in the arts. The experience concludes with a showcase and pizza celebration for families and friends to see what participants have created. Tuition is $135 per child for the week, with discounts available for multiple sessions; see the event listing for details.

Summer Sounds brings live music from local bands to Eastman Plaza in Downtown Cranford. This edition features The Accelerators. Sponsors include Garlic Rose Bistro, HomeGotOwned, Sheet Metal Workers Local 22, Martin Jewelers, NJPAC, and Neim Dani from State Farm. For inclement weather updates, check Downtown Cranford social media.

Sweet Sounds Downtown fills the heart of downtown with live music, dancing, and festive energy throughout the season. Enjoy performances while dining outside, browsing shops with friends, or taking a leisurely stroll, with music popping up at spots like Quimby Street and Foundation Park. The series runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with Quimby Street featured both days and Foundation Park highlighted on Tuesdays. If it rains, Tuesday performances shift to Wednesday and Thursday shows are canceled.

This Summer Sounds event spotlights live music by local bands at Eastman Plaza. This edition features a performance by Burnside Manor. Weather-related updates are shared through Downtown Cranford social media. Support comes from Garlic Rose Bistro, HomeGotOwned, Sheet Metal Workers Local 22, Martin Jewelers, NJPAC, and Neim Dani from State Farm.

Enjoy a free outdoor concert in Rahway’s arts park, located across from the Union County Performing Arts Center. The park offers shade and picnic tables, making it easy to pick up food from nearby places and settle in for live music and dancing.