Live Music Guide for Greater Portland 2024
Hoping to catch some live music on your next visit to Greater Portland, Maine?
Here’s a round-up of some fantastic spots to enjoy music in both lively and laidback settings across Portland.
For more visit our area towns for even more coastal New England charm.
Photo Credits (clockwise from top): GLP Films, Lauren Peters, Portland Chamber Music Festival
Upcoming Events
For a list of what’s coming up in the Greater Portland check out our Events Calendar for shows, concerts, live music, etc. Local restaurants, bars, and pubs have music schedules throughout the year, so check out Eat + Drink for more.
Western Promenade Free Concerts
Bring a blanket and enjoy these free, one-hour sunset concerts along the Western Promenade! On Wednesdays from 7-8PM throughout July and August, enjoy a vast variety of local talent at this 18 acre public park and recreation area.
Sounds by the Sea at Fort Williams
Headed to see the famous Portland Head Light just over the bridge in Cape Elizabeth? Plan your visit on a Monday and enjoy live music at 6PM as well! The Sounds by the Sea concert series highlights local talent along the crashing waves at this historic park. Bring a blanket.
You can catch Live Music at the Public House at Maine Craft Distilling almost every night of the week! From 7-9PM Tuesday-Sunday, enjoy free live music on a first come, first served basis while enjoying hand crafted spirits. Want a more intimate setting? Reserve a ticket to one of their highly rated Barrel Room Series nights! With limited tickets available, The Barrel Room Series offers a 45 seated concert nestled amongst oak barrels at the distillery.
Thompson’s Point
If you are headed to Maine this summer, don’t miss Summer Sunsets at Thompson’s Point! On Thursdays & Fridays, this gathering spot offers a rotating list of live musical acts – plus you’ll find food trucks, craft cocktails, beer and wine for purchase. It’s kid friendly, dog friendly and has free admission – not to mention, the space is expansive, making it the perfect spot for a large group! Bring a blanket or snag a picnic table for ample music and sunset viewing.
Enjoy a round of bowling and then catch some live music all within the same place! Enjoy a rotating selection of bands, soloists and more on most weekend nights. Throughout the summer, you can also head to their rooftop for more live music and expansive views of Portland.
State Theatre
Drawing talent from all over, this 1350 seat theatre has an impressive line-up for 2024, including: The Flaming Lips, Lake Street Dive and so much more! Check their calendar and grab tickets.
Gritty’s Brew Pub
Enjoy a beer in the heart of the Old Port and catch some live music at this dynamic pub! With a rotating schedule, check their calendar to determine which local musicians are on tap for the evening.
Written by: Chelsea Diehl
Chelsea is the founder of Gadabout Maine, a Maine-focused story-telling platform. Her debut travel memoir, Just Up The Road, was published by Islandport Press in October 2023. She continues to actively share her adventures throughout Maine in her popular Substack Newsletter, Gadabout Maine.
Follow Chelsea’s Maine Adventures on Instagram: @gadaboutmaine
