Free Concerts Every Wednesday
from May 27 – June 24, 2026 at 7PM
Arts on East concerts will take place every Wednesday from May 27 through June 24 on Duke’s East Campus. Previously called Music in the Gardens, this series has been renamed to reflect its new location. This year, each event will be hosted by Stormie Daie and curated by a different Durham-based partner, highlighting the breadth of artistic voices that shape the city.
Each Arts on East concert is free and open to all – no tickets are required. Events will feature a community market organized by Kamara Thomas and food will be available to purchase from The Palace International and food truck partners. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, picnics, and blankets.
Get programming and weather-related updates when you sign up for the Duke Arts Presents newsletter.
Have additional questions? Check out our FAQ below.
This series is made possible in part through the generous support of the Mary Duke Biddle Trent Semans Foundation, with additional support from WXDU and Duke Summer Session.
Blending Appalachian honky-tonk with cinematic storytelling, Rebecca Porter pushes at the edges of country and Americana with unflinchingly raw songwriting.
This Durham-based ensemble blends jazz, hip hop, blues, rock, and gospel, honoring the roots of Black American music.
Where are the concerts? Where can I park?
Concerts are held outdoors on Duke’s East Campus, located behind White Lecture Hall and the East Duke Building at Duke University (see the Duke Arts symbol on the map below).
Parking on East Campus and Smith Warehouse is free after 5 p.m., and the lawn has multiple pedestrian entrances.
Primary Parking:
1 – East Campus Lots (Approximate 5 minutes to stage)
2 – Smith Warehouse (Approximate 10 minutes to stage)
ADA Parking:
3 – Epworth & Crowell Lots (Approximate 4 minutes to stage)
Is the series free?
Yes! All concerts are free and open to the public—no tickets required.
When are the concerts?
Concerts take place every Wednesday at 7pm from May 27 through June 24.
Where are the restrooms located?
Restrooms are located inside White Lecture Hall.
For ADA access, use the right-side entrance to take the elevator to the main floor.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing lawn chairs, blankets, and anything else you need to enjoy the concert comfortably. On warm days, be prepared for the heat—fans will be on site, but we encourage guests to bring extra water, cooling towels, or personal fans if needed.
Will food be available? Can I bring my own?
Yes! We encourage guests to enjoy food from The Palace International.
If you prefer, you’re also welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy during the event.
Are pets allowed?
Yes! Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome on East Campus. For everyone’s safety and comfort, please always keep your dog on a leash and be sure to clean up after them.
What happens if it rains?
If it rains, the concerts will be moved to a location indoors.
We will announce any changes by 1 PM on the day of the event via Duke Arts’ Instagram and Facebook pages, so please check there for updates.
How can I get event updates?
Join the Duke Arts Presents mailing list to receive reminders, programming news, and more.
Led by Kym Register, owner of The Pinhook, Meltdown Rodeo brings their signature blend of twang infused rock and classic country with queer and counterculture themes.
Lua Project bridges Mexican song forms with Appalachian traditions, drawing stories and sounds from the past into a living, vibrant present.
Trumpeter and composer Brandon Woody and his band UPENDO draw from gospel and jazz traditions, exploring themes of love, resilience, and community.
Blending Appalachian honky-tonk with cinematic storytelling, Rebecca Porter pushes at the edges of country and Americana with unflinchingly raw songwriting.
This Durham-based ensemble blends jazz, hip hop, blues, rock, and gospel, honoring the roots of Black American music.
Have a question? Email us!
Feel free to email us at arts@duke.edu, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!
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