Overton Park Shell 2026 Free Concerts Lineup for Summer
The Overton Park Shell just announced the Orion Financial Free Concert Series running May 9 through June 27 with 18 shows spanning rock, funk, hip-hop, folk, electronic, and more. All free, all outdoors, all at one of the most iconic music venues in the city.
The Overton Park Shell just announced the Orion Financial Free Concert Series running May 9 through June 27 with 18 shows spanning rock, funk, hip-hop, folk, electronic, and more. All free, all outdoors, all at one of the most iconic music venues in the city.
And this isn't just any year at the Shell — it's the 90th! Since 1936, that stage in the middle of Overton Park has hosted everything from Elvis Presley's first paid concert to the Memphis Symphony to the kind of sweaty, spontaneous summer nights that become core memories. Nine decades of music, community, and wide-open lawn vibes and the 2026 season is shaping up to be a fitting celebration.
The spring series kicks things off with a mix of national touring acts and homegrown Memphis talent, plus a few special features designed as throwback moments to legendary Shell performances past. Hint the Allman Brothers '71 recreation show.
There's also a 90th Birthday Shell-ebration Weekend coming in September with even more to announce, so keep this on your radar all season long.
2026 Summer Schedule
- Saturday, May 9: Trouble No More presents Allman Brothers Band Historic ‘71
Recreation Show - Saturday, May 16: Bodywerk presents Rmzi & Friends
- Sunday, May 17: Dreamfest
- Sunday, May 24: Sunset Symphony
- Thursday, May 28: Eddie 9V
- Friday, May 29: Billy Allen + The Pollies
- Thursday, June 4: East Nash Grass
- Friday, June 5: Jake Shimabukuro
- Saturday, June 6: High Fade
- Thursday, June 11: The Iguanas
- Friday, June 12: Steph Strings
- Saturday, June 13: Mustang McGee
- Thursday, June 18: The Lone Bellow
- Friday, June 19: Deanté Hitchcock
- Saturday, June 20: Brezay
- Thursday, June 25: Brother Wallace
- Friday, June 26: FreeWorld
- Saturday, June 27: Stax Music Academy
Things To Know Before You Go To An Overton Park Shell Show In Memphis
- Bring chairs, blankets, coolers, picnics, any of your own food and drink – or enjoy the beer and food for sale.
- The shows are free, but it’s always great to bring a couple of bucks to throw in the donation buckets.
- Most shows begin at 7:30 p.m. sharp, but I would get there at least a half-hour early to snag a good spot. (Or an hour if a good spot is really important to you!)
- Parking is a challenge. Get there early to find a place to park, carpool, get a ride, take a Lyft, ride a bike, or walk!
- The shows are all ages, but as with anything, parents should look up the entertainment ahead of time to be sure they’re cool with it.
- Pets! Here's exactly what Overton Park Shell says: "Dogs on a leash are allowed at The Shell but must remain in THE PUPPY BAR (outside the main lawn seating area, behind the sidewalk). Please remember to clean up after your pets to avoid any messy accidents."
Ways To Support The Overton Park Shell
While you can always swipe your card for a quick donation during a free show at the Shell (or drop some cash in the donation bucket), there are several other ways to support this awesome free thing to do in Memphis:
- Donate during a free show - Shell volunteers will come around with a card reader and donation bucket
- Join the Shell Circle - yearly membership program that gives you concession and Shell Yeah discounts
- Buy a ticket to a Shell, Yeah! benefit show. On Sept. 10th, you can catch Booker T. Jones.
- Sign up to volunteer your time
- Sponsor a show
What Is "Shell Yeah!" ?
When you think the Shell, you think "free concerts".
But these free shows don't grow on trees, and neither do the lights, sounds system, groundskeeping, and staffing for the shows. The Overton Park Shell really needs our donations and support in order to keep the music going. That's why they host a couple of paid concerts every year.
If you're a frequent Shell-goer, you can think of it like getting dozens concerts for the price of a few. These concerts are different from usual Shell shows because outside food and drinks aren't allowed, and pets need to stay at home.
On Sept. 10th, you can catch the legendary Booker T. Jones. This show for the 90th Birthday Shell-ebration Weekend kick off.
About the Author
Brenda Brunner
I’m beyond excited to be in attendance of as many concerts as possible! Let’s give a shout out to all that work tirelessly to make sure we can experience the joy of what brings everyone together and that’s MUSIC! For those that can please make a donation in support of making all this possible!
Louise Wade
in the 1950’s went often to musicals at The She’ll with my Grandmother Crump. We enjoyed the operettas. One of my favorites was The Student Prince .We enjoyed Eskimo pies at intermission. It was a wonderful summer event I so enjoyed with my grandmother.
Alka Cohen
I like being informed of what is going on around our city. I also share this info with friends and family visiting so awe can plan events during their stay. Thank you!
Virginia
Love, everything about the Overton Park Shell. My ex husband and I use to take pictures in the park back in the 80s. So many sweet memories. Love to join your concert series for 2026
Virginia
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