Bello announces 40th annual Wegmans Concerts by the Shore series

Monroe County, New York – A beloved summer tradition along the Lake Ontario shoreline is set to return for another season, as Monroe County officials have announced the comeback of the popular Wegmans Concerts by the Shore series at Ontario Beach Park. The long-running event, which has become a staple of summer entertainment in the Rochester area, will celebrate its 40th season in 2026 with a lineup of free weekly performances spanning a wide range of musical styles.

The concert series will once again transform Ontario Beach Park into a gathering place for music lovers, families, and visitors looking to enjoy summer evenings by the water. Located at Ontario Beach Park, the venue will host concerts every Wednesday evening throughout the summer, offering residents and tourists an opportunity to experience live music in a scenic outdoor setting.

The season officially opens on June 3 with a performance by Nik and the Nice Guys, a well-known show band that has entertained audiences across the region for decades. The opening concert begins at 7 p.m. and, like all performances in the series, will be free to attend.

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello highlighted the significance of the annual tradition and encouraged residents to make the most of the summer concert season.

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“Of all the traditions to look forward to here in Monroe County, one of my favorites is the Wegmans Concerts by the Shore series,” said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. “I encourage everyone to join us at Ontario Beach Park every Wednesday to enjoy good food, great music, and an even better community.”

The milestone 40th season will run through August 26, bringing nearly three months of live entertainment to the lakeshore. Most performances are scheduled to begin at 7 p.m., with one exception. The July 8 appearance by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra will start at 7:30 p.m.

Organizers say the series has evolved into much more than a concert program over the years. It has become a community gathering point that supports local businesses while providing accessible entertainment for families.

“The Wegmans Concerts by the Shore series has been providing Charlotte residents with free family friendly fun for the last 40 years,” said Chair of the Ontario Beach Park Programming Committee Jim Farr. “Not only is it a great opportunity to get out and enjoy our beautiful park but it also provides an influx of business to local shops and restaurants.”

Visitors are encouraged to arrive before the music begins and take advantage of the area’s dining options. Guests may bring their own picnic dinners or stop by nearby restaurants along the lakeshore before settling in for the evening’s performance. Food concessions will also be available on-site throughout the season, offering favorites such as pizza, kettle corn, and ice cream.

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The concert series is sponsored by Wegmans and is presented by the volunteer-led Ontario Beach Park Program Committee in partnership with the City of Rochester and Monroe County.

This year’s schedule reflects the event’s longstanding commitment to musical variety. Audiences can expect everything from country and Celtic music to Latin rhythms, reggae, funk, R&B, and high-energy dance performances.

Following the season opener, country artist Claudia Hoyser will take the stage on June 10. Other featured acts include The Skycoasters on June 17, Linda Rutherford & Celtic Fire on June 24, and Atlas on July 1. The summer lineup continues with La Nueva Secuencia, The Real News, Ignite Reggae, Indigo Breeze, The Dukes, ALLEGRO, and The Uptown Groove, which will close out the season on August 26.

Organizers expect strong attendance throughout the summer, particularly given the series’ reputation as one of the region’s most enduring outdoor entertainment events. The concerts are accessible via local public transportation, and parking will be available in beach-area lots for those traveling by car.

As the series enters its fourth decade, officials say the goal remains unchanged: bringing people together through music, community, and the unique atmosphere of Ontario Beach Park. For many residents, Wednesday evenings by the lake have become a cherished summer ritual, and the 2026 season promises to continue that tradition with another summer of free performances under the open sky.

Additional information about the concert series and other upcoming events can be found through the Ontario Beach Park entertainment program.