What is the Naumburg Bandshell known for?

The Naumburg Bandshell is a timeless gathering place for music, history, and community in Central Park. It is best known for its celebrated free summer classical concerts, though it also hosts a diverse range of events including jazz, rock, dance, and special ceremonies.

How much does it cost to attend concerts at the Bandshell?

Concerts are free and require no tickets. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Where is the Naumburg Bandshell located?

It is located in Mid-Park at 71st Street, sitting at the Concert Ground along the Mall, just south of Bethesda Terrace.

What is the history of the Naumburg Bandshell?

Built in 1923 with funding from philanthropist Elkan Naumburg, the Bandshell replaced an earlier cast-iron bandstand designed by Jacob Wrey Mould. It is notable as the only Neoclassical building in Central Park.

Who has performed at the Naumburg Bandshell?

Diverse acts have performed on its stage, including Duke Ellington, John Philip Sousa, Irving Berlin, and The Grateful Dead.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Naumburg Bandshell in New York City

What to know

The Naumburg Bandshell is a timeless gathering place for music and community located in Mid-Park at 71st Street. Standing at the edge of the Mall, just south of Bethesda Terrace, it occupies the Concert Ground, an area originally included in Olmsted and Vaux’s 1851 Greensward Plan. The venue is notable as the only Neoclassical building in Central Park, providing a striking architectural contrast to the park’s predominantly Victorian design. Designed in 1916 and opened on September 29, 1923, the Bandshell was funded by philanthropist and banker Elkan Naumburg. It replaced an earlier, ornate cast-iron bandstand designed by Jacob Wrey Mould. The structure was designed by the architectural firm Tachau and Vaught to provide a larger and more modern facility for music on the Mall, where performances had been held since the 1860s. For more than a century, the site has been home to the Naumburg Orchestral Concerts. This series, founded by Elkan Naumburg, is described as one of the world's oldest free outdoor classical concert series and the oldest of its kind in the United States, bringing high-quality classical music to park visitors since 1905. Beyond classical music, the Bandshell has hosted a diverse range of performances. Legendary acts such as John Philip Sousa, Duke Ellington, Irving Berlin, and The Grateful Dead have performed on its stage. Today, it continues to host free summer classical concerts, as well as jazz, rock, dance performances, and community gatherings throughout the year.

Visitor tips

Check the local concert schedule to see if a free summer classical concert is happening during your visit.
If attending a concert, arrive early as folding-chair seating is first-come, first-served.
The venue is ADA accessible, making it easy for those with mobility needs to navigate the concert grounds.
Visit during a sunny day to fully appreciate the Neoclassical architectural details of the structure.

Nearby context

The Naumburg Bandshell sits at the north end of the Mall, just south of the Wisteria Pergola and Bethesda Terrace, making it a central hub for music and community within the park's most scenic walking paths.

Quick facts