Live music is a huge part of summer in the Boise area. There are so many different events, venues, and artists to choose from, so grab your friends and family for a night of fun. In this blog post, I am sharing my favorite live music events this summer. 

JUMP

Jack’s Urban Meeting Place, ‘JUMP’ is located in downtown Boise and is a great place to listen to local artists. This summer, they are hosting a free outdoor concert series that takes place every other Tuesday, now through September 7th. Starting at 5pm, bring your friends, family, and some blankets or chairs and find a spot to enjoy the show. From 5-8pm two different groups will take the stage and play in the outdoor amphitheater. There will also be three different featured food vendors each time to choose from. Check out the event page here to learn more.

Boise Spectrum

The Boise Spectrum is featuring free live music every Thursday throughout the summer season as a part of their annual Thursday Thunder Concert Series. You can also enjoy specials all throughout the Spectrum shopping center as well as raffle drawings, gift certificates, and more. To view the summer lineup, click here.

Sandbar Patio and Grill

The Sandbar Patio and Grill is a true Boise hidden gem. The outdoor patio and grill is located along the Boise Greenbelt with beautiful views of the Boise River. The Sandbar is known for its locally sourced, fresh ingredients and grilled cuisine. Enjoy a cocktail or locally drafted beer while you listen to live music every evening, and all day Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. To check out their menu and their music calendar, be sure to visit the Sandbar website here.

Chandler’s Steakhouse

If you are looking for live jazz music, Chandler’s is the place to go. For those who have had the pleasure of dining here, you know how amazing it is. Chandler’s specializes in prime steaks, fresh seafood, and premium specialty cocktails. The restaurant is also Boise’s only Forbes Travel Guide recommended restaurant and the recipient of the DiRona distinguished restaurants of North America award. Chandler’s is also known for their live jazz music seven nights a week from local artists. It is recommended that you place reservations ahead of time, which can be done here. 

Idaho Botanical Garden

For a super chill night of summer music, the Great Garden Escape at the Idaho Botanical Garden is the way to go! Bring blankets or a chair and your friends and family to enjoy live music in the meditation garden. Tickets must be purchased online and in advance, which can be done on the Idaho Botanical Garden website. For members tickets are $12 per person, for nonmembers tickets are $15-20; children three years old and younger can get in for free. The artists and times vary by date, so be sure to get all the details here. 

The Reef

Located in Downtown Boise, The Reef is a really fun place to get with some friends to enjoy live music and great food. The Reef is self-described as “an island vacation every day of the week” offering tropical inspired food and drinks in an island-themed setting. Enjoy a variety of local and touring artists while listening to live music on Boise’s only rooftop patio. Reservations can be made for the main dining room as well as the Hemingway room, but they also take walk-ins. For their menu and hours, learn more about The Reef here. 

More Venues + Year-Round Venues

• The Village at Meridian

• The Knitting Factory

• Ford Idaho Center

• Morrison Center

• Lost Grove Brewing

• Extra Mile Arena

• Egyptian Theatre

• Neurolux Lounge