Live music in Wilkes-Barre, PA

For more than a decade, the NEPA Scene Open Mic has been a long-running favorite in Northeastern Pennsylvania, bringing varied lineups and enthusiastic audiences to The V-Spot in Scranton. This free showcase welcomes local musicians, comedians, actors, performance artists, magicians, and more, offering a friendly stage to share work, connect with other creatives, and gain added visibility through a live stream and photo coverage. Touring bands have even dropped in between gigs. Sign-ups take place at the venue, and arriving early is the best way to secure a spot. Each act is typically given about 10 to 15 minutes, adjusted by turnout, and original material is encouraged. Performances are featured on live streams across Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram, with the understanding that copyrighted tracks may prevent some sets from appearing online. After the show, downloadable photos of every act are posted in the NEPA Scene Open Mic Facebook group so artists have professional images for their own promotion. Participants must be 18 or older. Those who are 18 to 20 need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and valid IDs are required for both. The venue provides a well-lit stage, a soundboard, two microphones, two standard instrument cables, and a five-piece Mapex house drum kit. Full bands are welcome, and performers using backing tracks can bring a phone or laptop to plug directly into the soundboard. Any additional equipment should be brought by the artist.

Brad Paisley ignites the stage with jaw-dropping guitar skills, easygoing country charm, and non-stop energy. The crowd sings along to the hits and soaks up every moment, turning the performance into a shared celebration. It is a country music experience filled with standout moments and lasting memories.

Presented in partnership with Luzerne County, the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce, and the Wilkes-Barre Preservation Society, this mainstage concert salutes America’s 250th and Luzerne County’s 240th. Music Director Melisse Brunet leads the NEPA Philharmonic in Aaron Copland’s Appalachian Spring and Lincoln Portrait. The program also features new multimedia projections highlighting 240 years of local history, show tunes performed by Luzerne County native and Broadway actress Celia Hottenstein, and original music by Luzerne County songwriter Gracie Jane Sinclair. Special guest speakers will be announced.

Black Flag takes the stage with a revitalized lineup led by founding guitarist Greg Ginn, staying true to the sound that made the band a touchstone of punk. Experience a live set from a group that helped define the genre. Advance tickets are $35, increasing to $40 on the day of the show.

The 335 brings rock classics to Poor Richard's Pub.