Free America250 concert coming to State College this summer

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

State College is one of five Pennsylvania cities hosting a free concert this summer as part of the state's celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary. Country artist Cole Swindell will headline the show at the Bryce Jordan Center on May 23, with Gabby Barrett and the Benny Havens Military Band also performing.

Why it matters

The 'Commonwealth Concert Series' is part of a larger $57.5 million state effort to celebrate America's 250th birthday, with free concerts taking place across Pennsylvania to bring communities together through music and patriotism.

The details

Tickets for the State College concert are free but required for entry. Four more free concerts will follow through June 27 in Erie, Hershey, Wilkes-Barre and Pittsburgh, featuring artists including The Fray, The Avett Brothers, Lady A, En Vogue, Nelly and Third Eye Blind. The concerts are funded by a $675,000 grant from the state's Marketing to Attract Marquis Events program.

• The State College concert will take place on May 23, 2026.
• Additional America250 events in Centre County include a patriotic joint concert by the Bellefonte and State College community bands on July 3, the Philipsburg Heritage Days festival from July 8-11, and the Centre County Grange Fair from Aug. 21-29.

What’s next

Tickets for the State College concert will be released at a future date, which residents can sign up for alerts about on the america250pa.org website.