Riverside Music Series Brings Big Names and Shared Moments to Mayo Park this Summer 2025
May 22, 2025 – ROCHESTER, MINN. – For more than 30 years, the Riverside Music Series has turned Sunday nights into something special. These free, un-ticketed concerts bring people together in Mayo Park for live music, local food and connection.
“This summer’s Riverside lineup brings a wide range of artists and energy to the stage, continuing a tradition of more than 30 years of free concerts that turn Mayo Park into a place where people come together—for music, for food, and for summer nights that feel like Rochester at its best,” said Avital Rabinowitz, Director of Rochester Public Music. “Whether you’ve been coming for years or you’re brand new to Riverside, there’s a spot in the park waiting for you.”
Here’s what’s coming to the stage in 2025:
- July 13 – Blind Melon
Best known for their 1990s hit “No Rain,” this American rock band blends psychedelic rock, folk, and alternative grunge into a sound that’s raw and soulful.
Opener: Amateur - July 20 – Caylee Hammack
A Georgia-born singer-songwriter whose sound mixes country, rock, and Americana. Her lyrics cut deep, and her voice brings them to life.
Opener: Genevieve Hayward - July 27 – The Wailin’ Jennys
A folk trio known for rich harmonies and captivating live performances. Three unique voices, one unforgettable sound.
Opener: Molly Maher & Her Disbelievers - August 3 – Tone Loc
The hip hop icon behind “Wild Thing” and “Funky Cold Medina.” Bold, unmistakable, and still bringing energy to every stage.
Opener: Desdamona & The Orange Goodness - August 10 – Hoobastank
This California rock band made waves with their 2004 hit “The Reason.” Their music blends melody and emotion with post-grunge roots.
Opener: John Forrest & The Model Citizens
Concert Details:
- When: Sundays. Music starts at 7 p.m. and wraps up around 9:30 p.m.
- Where: Mayo Park – 599 4th Ave. SE in Rochester
- Cost: Free and open to the public
- What to bring: Lawn chairs, blankets and your crew. Coolers are welcome.
- Activities: Look for The Art Stop banner for free art activities for all ages, in partnership with the Rochester Art Center.
- Food and drink: Local vendors will have craft beer, beverages and food available for purchase
- Parking: Free options nearby, including ramps, street spots and lots. Walking or biking encouraged.
- Restrooms: Indoor restrooms are open at Mayo Civic Center (Doors 16 and 19). Accessible portable restrooms are also located in the park.
- Accessibility: CART is a real-time speech-to-text service. You can view captions on your phone or tablet using a link or QR code displayed in the park.
Please Note: Concerts happen rain or shine. In the case of severe weather, updates will be shared on our website and on social media.
Riverside Music Series is Presented by: Think Bank
Media Sponsors: Quick Country 96.5, Y.105 FM, and Minnesota 97.5
Music with Purpose
The Riverside Music Series is part of Rochester Public Music’s lineup of free music programming, which also includes the Forward Series, Passport Sessions and Sound School. We bring music to neighborhoods, parks and schools. No cost. No barriers. Our work is rooted in shared experience and the belief that music belongs to everyone.