Grand Performances is marking a major milestone in 2026, celebrating its 40th anniversary with a free summer concert series. The event will take place at California Plaza in Downtown Los Angeles, continuing a four-decade tradition of bringing music and vibrancy to the area.
The series is scheduled to run from June 6 through August 29. Performances will occur on most Saturday nights, though the schedule notes that July 4 will be off.
A Diverse Musical Lineup
The newly released schedule features a wide array of genres, including mariachi music, timeless Korean songs, and Afrofuturistic jazz. The season opens on June 6 with performances by DJ Turbo Sonidero, Wachiwara, and Grupo Soñador.
Additional highlights of the 2026 spirit include a show remembering Ritchie Valens, a tribute to the music of Stevie Wonder, and a concert celebrating The Art of the Crossfade.
Community and Artistic Vision
Liz Garo, the Artistic Director of Grand Performances, stated that the lineup celebrates artists who are “pushing boundaries, blending genres, honoring tradition, and creating entirely new forms.”
Garo noted that the series was curated to invite audiences to experience global cultures while seeing themselves reflected on stage, which she described as a reflection of the creative spirit of Los Angeles.
Special Friday Programming
While Saturday nights serve as the primary theme for the series, the calendar also includes special Friday night events. These evenings will feature COLA artists from the City of Los Angeles’ Department of Cultural Affairs COLA Individual Artist Fellowship.
Given the focus on boundary-pushing artists, the series may continue to attract a diverse range of attendees who seek to experience the richness of global cultures in a shared public space.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 40th Annual Summer Concert Series take place?
The series runs from June 6 through August 29, 2026, with concerts happening on most Saturdays (excluding July 4) and select Friday nights.
Where are the concerts located and what is the cost?
The performances are held at California Plaza in Downtown Los Angeles and admission is free.
Who is performing at the opening event on June 6?
The summer fun opens with Grupo Soñador, Wachiwara, and DJ Turbo Sonidero.
Which of the scheduled musical genres or tributes are you most looking forward to experiencing this summer?