Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater
Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater is one of the most iconic outdoor music venues in the New York region, known for hosting major touring artists each summer against a scenic backdrop along the Atlantic Ocean. Located within Jones Beach State Park, the theater offers a unique blend of large-scale entertainment and coastal atmosphere that has made it a staple of Long Island’s summer concert scene for decades.
History and Background
Originally opened in 1952 as the Jones Beach Marine Theater, the venue was designed to complement the surrounding parkland and coastal environment. Early performances included theatrical productions and aquatic shows, taking advantage of the venue’s original design, which featured a stage set over the water.
Over time, the theater evolved into a full-scale concert venue, adapting to changing entertainment trends and audience demand. Today, it stands as one of the largest and most well-known amphitheaters in the Northeast.
Venue Experience
What sets Jones Beach Theater apart from other concert venues is its open-air, waterfront setting. Concertgoers can enjoy live performances while surrounded by ocean breezes and panoramic views of the South Shore.
Key features include:
- Outdoor amphitheater design with a large seating capacity
- Reserved seating layout, offering clear stage views from most sections
- A stage positioned near the water, creating a distinctive visual backdrop
- Seasonal operation, typically running from late spring through early fall
The venue’s layout and location create a concert experience that feels both expansive and relaxed, making it a favorite for both artists and fans.
Major Concerts and Performers
Each year, Jones Beach Theater hosts a wide range of national and international touring acts, spanning multiple genres including pop, rock, country, hip-hop, and classic hits.
Artists who have performed here include:
- Billy Joel
- Madonna
- Bruce Springsteen
- Elton John
The venue continues to attract high-profile performers each summer, making it one of the top destinations for live music on Long Island.
Getting There and Parking
Jones Beach Theater is located along Ocean Parkway in Wantagh, making it accessible by car from most parts of Long Island and New York City.
Important considerations:
- Parking is available on-site within Jones Beach State Park
- Traffic can become heavy before and after major shows
- Early arrival is strongly recommended for popular events
- Ride-sharing services are commonly used but may have delays during peak times
Public transportation options exist but often require a combination of train and taxi or shuttle service to reach the venue.
Tips for Attending a Show
To make the most of your visit:
- Check the weather – all shows are held outdoors
- Bring light layers for cooler evenings near the water
- Arrive early to explore the area and avoid traffic congestion
- Review venue policies regarding bags, food, and prohibited items
Because of its coastal location, conditions can vary, so planning ahead helps ensure a more comfortable experience.
Role in Long Island’s Summer Culture
Jones Beach Theater is more than just a concert venue, it’s a central part of Long Island’s summer identity. For many residents and visitors, attending a show here is a seasonal tradition that combines music, travel, and the natural beauty of the South Shore.
The venue also contributes to local tourism, drawing visitors who often explore nearby beaches, restaurants, and communities before or after attending events.
Full 2026 Concert Schedule
The 2026 summer concert season at Jones Beach Theater features a wide range of major artists, legacy acts, and fan-favorite performers across multiple genres. Below is the full confirmed schedule of shows.
| Date | Artist / Event | Tour / Details |
|---|---|---|
| June 5 | Triumph | Rock & Roll Machine Reloaded Tour |
| June 8 | Kesha | The Freedom Tour |
| June 18 | Ashanti & Trey Songz | Live Performance |
| June 19 | Yacht Rock Revue | Primetime Tour |
| June 20 | Riley Green | Cowboy As It Gets Tour 2026 |
| June 23 | James Taylor | Live in Concert |
| June 24 | Evanescence | World Tour |
| June 27 | Godsmack | The Rise of Rock Tour 2026 |
| June 28 | Jack Johnson | Surf Music Tour 2026 |
| July 2 | Santana & The Doobie Brothers | Oneness Tour |
| July 9 | Lindsey Stirling | Duality Untamed Tour |
| July 10 | The Guess Who | Takin’ It Back Tour |
| July 16 | 311 & Dirty Heads | Co-Headlining Tour |
| July 18 | Train | Drops of Jupiter 25 Years Tour |
| July 19 | Toto & Christopher Cross | The Romantics Tour |
| July 21 | Dave Matthews Band | Summer Tour |
| July 22 | Ne-Yo & Akon | Nights Like This Tour 2026 |
| July 23 | Chicago & Styx | Windy Cities Tour |
| July 24 | Tim McGraw | Standing Room Only Tour |
| July 25 | Muse | The Will of the People Tour |
| July 26 | John Mellencamp | Dancing Words Tour |
| July 31 | Rod Stewart | One Last Time Tour |
| August 1 | Kidz Bop Kids | Live Tour |
| August 4 | Five Finger Death Punch | Live in Concert |
| August 6 | Jimmy Buffett Tribute (Coral Reefer Band) | Margaritaville Tour |
| August 7 | Jeff Dunham & Gabriel Iglesias | Comedy Show |
| August 13 | Zach Top | Cold Beer & Country Tour |
| August 14 | Sebastian Maniscalco | Live Show |
| August 16 | Beatstock Festival | Multi-Artist Event |
| August 20 | Howard Jones | Things Can Only Get Better Tour |
| August 21 | Lynyrd Skynyrd & Foreigner | Double Trouble Tour |
| August 22 | The Fray | Summer of Light Tour |
| August 25 | Pitbull | Special Guest Tour |
| August 26 | Chris Stapleton | All-American Road Show |
| August 28 | Outlaw Music Festival | Willie Nelson & more |
| August 30 | Empire of the Sun | Ask That God Tour |
| September 5 | Breaking Benjamin | Live Show |
| September 10 | Lil Wayne | Carter Classics Tour |
| September 11 | Jason Aldean | Songs About You Tour |
| September 12 | John Fogerty & Steve Winwood | Co-Headlining Tour |
| September 13 | Wu-Tang Clan | The Final Chamber |
| September 14 | Staind | 25th Anniversary Tour |
| September 15 | TLC & Salt-N-Pepa | It’s Iconic Tour |
| September 18 | Daryl Hall & John Oates | Three Decades Tour |
This Lineup
The 2026 schedule at Jones Beach Theater highlights just how diverse Long Island’s live music scene has become, featuring everything from pop and hip-hop to classic rock, country, and comedy. With dozens of nationally recognized artists performing throughout the summer, the venue remains one of the top destinations for live entertainment in the region.
For the most up-to-date information, including newly announced shows, ticket availability, and any schedule changes, visitors can also view the official lineup directly on the Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater Official Website.
Vicinity of the Theater
Key Facts and Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater |
| Location | Wantagh, Long Island, NY |
| Setting | Outdoor waterfront amphitheater |
| Opened | 1952 |
| Seasonal Operation | Late spring through early fall |
| Capacity | Approximately 15,000 seats |
| Venue Type | Concert / Live Entertainment |
| Nearby Feature | Jones Beach State Park |
With its scenic oceanfront setting, long-standing history, and consistent lineup of major performers, Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater remains one of the premier destinations for live music in the New York area. Whether attending a headline concert or simply experiencing the atmosphere, it continues to offer a uniquely Long Island blend of entertainment and coastal charm.
