Outdoor concert venue coming to Monmouth County in 2026

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The basics:

• ParkStage to open in summer 2026 at East Freehold Park
• Venue to host national acts, comedy, community events
• 3,500-capacity space includes VIP options, free parking
• Launch aligns with nation’s 250th and Count Basie Center’s 100th anniversary

A new outdoor entertainment venue for national touring acts expects to make its debut next summer in Monmouth County.

As part of a collaboration between the Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank and Monmouth County Tourism, ParkStage at the East Freehold Park Showgrounds aims to become a marquee destination for music, comedy and more.

With more than 2.3 million residents within a 25-mile radius, Monmouth County officials touted the upcoming venue’s location in one of the state’s fastest-growing population corridors.

In addition to easy access via major highways, ParkStage will offer modern conveniences, free on-site parking and luxury VIP accommodations. Capacity will vary by show, but the average number of seats in the 130,000-square-foot venue will be about 3,500, a spokesperson said.

A full schedule of the national and international performers set to take the stage will be unveiled later this year, according to this week’s announcement.

A show of support

The launch is planned to coincide with Monmouth County’s larger effort to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, as well as nonprofit arts organization Count Basie Center’s centennial.

Monmouth County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon described the ParkStage Summer Concert Series as “one of the signature activities in Monmouth for America’s birthday celebration as well as 100th anniversary of the Basie.”

“We have been working hard in Monmouth County for over two years to craft a fitting celebration of the birth of the greatest nation on Earth. A major focus for the MonmouthNJ 250 Committee was to bring all of Monmouth’s stakeholders together – the towns, the arts, organizations, schools, businesses and tourism – to make really special things happen,” she said.

Jeremy Grunin, chair of the Count Basie Center’s board of trustees, said, “As we mark 100 years of the Basie Center, ParkStage represents our continuing investment in this community. This venue will provide new opportunities for performers, attract visitors to our region, and create shared experiences that strengthen the cultural and economic fabric of Monmouth County and beyond.”

Freehold Township Mayor Maureen Fasano added, “This summer concert series is about more than great music – it is a way to bring people to our town, support local businesses and celebrate the spirit of our community. Each performance helps drive foot traffic, energize our local economy and showcase everything our town has to offer.”

According to a spokesperson, funding for popup venue ParkStage comes through a mix of grants and sponsorships. Potential sponsors should contact Lysa Israel at [email protected].

Watch the announcement here: