FREEHOLD, NJ — The Count Basie Center for the Arts, in partnership with Monmouth County Tourism, has announced the first three performers scheduled to take the stage as part of the ParkStage Summer 2026 concert series, signaling a major kickoff for what is expected to be a landmark season of outdoor entertainment.
The initial lineup features Sublime on Friday, June 19, followed by The Head and The Heart with special guests Wilderado on Friday, June 26. The B-52s will close out the first wave of announcements with a performance on Saturday, July 11, joined by special guests The English Beat. Organizers say additional artists and events will be revealed in the coming months.
Tickets for all three concerts will go on sale Friday, January 30, at 10 a.m. and will be available through parkstage.org and Ticketmaster. Fans are encouraged to purchase early, as demand is expected to be high for the outdoor summer shows.
Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone said the opening lineup reflects the vision behind ParkStage as a premier destination for live music and entertainment. He noted that the concert series is expected to draw visitors from across the region while also providing a boost to local businesses throughout the county.
ParkStage is being launched as part of Monmouth County’s broader efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, alongside the Count Basie Center for the Arts’ centennial celebration. Officials say the venue is designed to host a wide range of performances, including music, comedy, and other live events, making it a central hub for cultural programming in New Jersey.
Adam Philipson, President and CEO of the Count Basie Center for the Arts, said the partnership with Monmouth County represents a new chapter for live entertainment in the region. He described ParkStage as a unique outdoor venue that will allow the organization to expand its offerings while creating shared experiences for audiences during a historically significant year.
Organizers emphasized that ParkStage Summer 2026 is expected to attract thousands of attendees over the course of the season. Updates on additional performers and the full concert schedule will be released as plans are finalized. More information and ticket details are available at parkstage.org.