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There are few better ways to embrace summer than enjoying great music, warm weather and delicious food and drinks all at the same time. These Okoboji music venues allow you to do just that and many are free, making the experience even more exciting. So, start planning now to catch your favorite artists and stunning lake views in Okoboji.
When the weather turns warm, the Arnolds Park Preservation Plaza transforms into one of the area’s best music destinations. Its stunning outdoor stage overlooks West Lake Okoboji and welcomes major artists like Smashmouth, X-Ambassadors and more for its Live at the Lake summer concert series, which is held every Saturday for free. You can enjoy the music and post-show fireworks on land or aboard a boat. Live at the Lake runs June through August, giving you plenty of opportunities to experience the magic. Paid shows also take place on Friday and Sunday nights.
Also located at Arnolds Park, the Roof Garden Ballroom is one of the area’s newer venues that merges nostalgia with live music. The original ballroom started in 1923 and has since been rebuilt to maintain its entertainment legacy. Admire the original architecture outside, then step inside to enjoy a night filled with tunes in the state-of-the-art space. Their summer lineup includes classic favorites like The Lettermen, The Fabulous Flippers and more.
Discover another exciting summer concert series at Captain's Getaway Entertainment Complex. Though this indoor venue boasts year-round concerts on Friday and Saturday nights, its NashLo summer series is especially popular. Starting in June, the series welcomes major Nashville recording artists like Tigirlily Gold, Uncle Kracker and Wyatt Flores to the stage for an intimate concert experience. Be sure to grab dinner and drinks on the rooftop before the show.
If you’re looking for live music paired with dancing and dining under a starry sky, head to The Okoboji Store for the ultimate summer experience. This outdoor venue offers a thrilling “Boatchella” summer lineup of regional favorites like The Nadas, Nuclear Bees, Damon Dotson and more every weekend Memorial Day through Labor Day. The stage can be seen from the dance floor below, the rooftop dining area above or from a boat on the East and West Lakes.
Located on the shores of East Lake Okoboji, The Barefoot Bar is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. Live bands take over the outdoor stage every weekend, creating the ultimate dance party beneath palm trees. For an outdoor music experience like no other, be sure to keep your eye on their event calendar to catch a Full Moon Party, held each full moon throughout the summer. The free event begins in the late evening and is jampacked with live music from Midwest artists like the Johnny Holm Band, Jake Gill, the Mighty Nish Band and more, plus a seafood boil and endless fun until 11 p.m.
For a more intimate theater setting, head to the Pearson Lakes Art Center. Buy a ticket to claim your spot in the 288-seat theater, then sit back and prepare to be entertained by accomplished musicians like Gary Puckett & The Union Gap, The Diamonds, Marilyn Mae, Hotel California and endless tribute bands.
Discover the best weekend dance party at The Gardens. Located below the shops and restaurants of Central Emporium, The Gardens is one of Okoboji’s original ballrooms. Dating back to 1910, it’s still a grand venue that welcomes some of the area’s biggest names like The Fishheads and the Jake McVey Band. During the summer, their event calendar is packed with weekend performances as well as their Sunset Funset series, which is held every night of the week on the deck overlooking West Lake Okoboji from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
While you’re in Okoboji enjoying live music, there’s also plenty to explore throughout the community.
Check out these attractions:
Refuel at these must-try restaurants:
Spend a night in luxury at these hotels:
Whether you're seeking rest and relaxation, outdoor exploration or family adventures, the opportunities are endless.
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