After a long workday, I often find myself searching for something fun to do with my family on warm summer evenings. With the sun setting after 8 p.m., we have plenty of time to enjoy the outdoors. One of my favorite ideas? Grab takeout or pack a picnic and head to Buckley Park in downtown Durango for free live music. The concerts run from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. – perfect timing for us to relax, listen to great music and still have time to grab dinner afterward if we didn’t bring our own.
This is the heart behind the Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College’s summer series, “Concert Hall at the Park.” What began as Fridays at the Fort Downtown back in 2010 has grown into a cherished tradition. Now in our 15th season at Buckley Park, we’re still going strong thanks to the ongoing support of Alpine Bank and our amazing community. These shows are completely free and showcase outstanding talent from both our region and across the country.
The 2025 lineup features a mix of returning favorites and exciting new acts. Kicking things off on June 26 is Nosotros, bringing their signature Latin-fusion style that blends rock, salsa, jazz and cumbia into a high-energy dance party. On July 3, we welcome Will Overman, a Virginia-based singer-songwriter whose Country-Americana sound mixes grit and heart.
July 10 features Nefesh Mountain, a powerhouse Progressive Americana band from New York that fuses bluegrass with soulful storytelling. With praise from Rolling Stone and American Songwriter, they promise an unforgettable performance. The next week, on July 17, Brice Beaird and the Dallas All-Star Band deliver A Tribute to JT, honoring the timeless music of James Taylor with fresh interpretations full of warmth and nostalgia.
We’ll also see the return of some beloved performers. On July 24, Afrosonics from Boise, Idaho, bring their global rhythms and uplifting energy back to Durango. Their music is a celebration of culture, unity and groove. After Midnight, a hard-swinging jazz band from Evergreen, returns on July 31. Their toe-tapping rhythms and joyful energy made a big splash during their last visit, and I can’t wait to see them again.
Wrapping up the season on Aug. 7 is Leon Timbo. Last year, weather pushed his performance indoors, but that didn’t stop him from delivering a soul-stirring set. With a mix of vintage soul, gospel, R&B, folk and blues, his music is raw, real and deeply moving.
Whether you’re bringing lawn chairs, blankets or just your dancing shoes, there’s something here for everyone. Grassburger will be on-site offering food and drinks to keep us going through the evening. This series is more than just music – it’s a celebration of our community, our summer spirit and the joy of gathering together.
To explore the full artist lineup and learn more, visit durangoconcerts.com or call 247-7657, Monday through Friday, 1 to 5 p.m. I’ll see you at the park!
Charles Leslie is director of the Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College.
