Live at The Gardens Summer Concert Series is Back for 2026
Published on April 23, 2026
Contact: Victoria Erickson, Arts & Culture Marketing and Communications Mngr., 970-416-2765, verickson@fortcollins.gov and Mackenzie Merrill-Wick, Arts & Culture Marketing and Communications Specialist, 970-416-2280, mmerrill-wick@fortcollins.gov.
The Gardens on Spring Creek and The Lincoln Center are pleased to announce the return of the Live at The Gardens Summer Concert Series, presented by Mountain Valley Bank. From June through August 2026, audiences are invited to experience an unforgettable season of live music set against the stunning backdrop of The Gardens. Featuring nationally recognized artists, vibrant blooms, food trucks, free parking and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere, the series continues to be one of Northern Colorado’s most anticipated summer traditions.
The Live at The Gardens season kicks off on Saturday, June 13 at 6 p.m. with The Fabulous Thunderbirds, a quintessential American band whose signature blend of blues, rock, R&B and soul has captivated audiences for more than three decades. Led by co-founder Kim Wilson—praised by Muddy Waters for his harmonica mastery and vocals—the group rose to prominence with hits like “Tuff Enuff” and continues to deliver a raw, high-energy sound on stages around the world.
On Saturday, July 18 at 6 p.m., GRAMMY® Award-winning duo and Colorado natives The Okee Dokee Brothers bring their adventurous, family-friendly folk songs to The Gardens. Known for their heartfelt harmonies and playful storytelling, Joe Mailander and Justin Lansing create music that celebrates the outdoors and inspires audiences of all ages to connect with nature.
The series continues on Saturday, July 25 at 6 p.m. with Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Al Jardine of The Beach Boys & The Pet Sounds Band in a Celebration of the Music of Brian Wilson & The Beach Boys. This performance delivers the timeless harmonies and sun-soaked sound that defined a generation, alongside new material that carries the Beach Boys’ legacy forward.
On Saturday, Aug. 8 at 6 p.m., six-time GRAMMY-winning producer Don Was takes the stage with The Pan Detroit Ensemble. Blending Detroit soul, jazz and rock, the group will present original compositions alongside a tribute to the 50th anniversary of the Grateful Dead’s “Blues for Allah,” offering an improvisational and genre-crossing musical experience.
On Saturday, Aug. 15 at 6 p.m., An Evening with Marc Cohn & Shawn Colvin: Together in Concert features two of America’s most celebrated singer-songwriters in a special night of music and storytelling. Known for “Walking in Memphis,” Cohn brings his soulful, narrative-driven style, while three-time GRAMMY® Award winner Shawn Colvin contributes her signature voice and decades of acclaimed songwriting.
The series concludes on Saturday, Aug. 29 at 6 p.m. with Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, whose energetic revival of jazz and swing has thrilled audiences worldwide for more than 30 years. Known for their high-profile performances and vibrant stage presence, the band delivers a lively, dance-worthy finale to the summer season.
Tickets for the Live at The Gardens Summer Concert Series are available exclusively through The Lincoln Center Box Office. An exclusive presale begins at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 23 for Gardens Members and Lincoln Center Subscribers. General public sales opening at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28. Tickets can be purchased at LCTix.com or by calling 970-221-6730.
Concert tickets are dynamically priced based on demand, with the lowest prices available at the time of initial release. As inventory decreases, prices may increase. Early purchase is encouraged for the best value.
About The Gardens on Spring Creek
The Gardens on Spring Creek is one of Fort Collins’ premier cultural organizations. This 12-acre botanical oasis offers curated garden spaces designed for relaxation and discovery, educational programming, seasonal events and an annual concert series. The Gardens’ mission is to enrich the lives of people and foster environmental stewardship through horticulture. Learn more at FortCollins.gov/Gardens.
About The Lincoln Center
The Lincoln Center is one of Northern Colorado’s largest and most diverse presenters of professional theatre, dance, music, comedy and children’s programming. Featuring multiple performance and event spaces, galleries and outdoor areas, The Lincoln Center is dedicated to creating shared experiences that connect and inspire community. Learn more at LCtix.com.
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