The Santa Clara Cultural Commission just wrapped up the 2026 summer season of Concerts in the Park. This was a super year of great bands performing for hundreds of residents who enjoyed the summer evenings relaxing on the lawn to the sights and sounds of many terrific performers.
It was great to watch the attendees increase in number as the concerts proceeded to entertain with such amazing talent. One of the highlights was moving to the music while watching and listening to these talented band performers.
This year’s line-up was outstanding. The Dynamic Miss Faye Carol Jazz, blues, gospel and R&B band kicked things off on June 19. Three weeks later, rock and country band, the Megatones, had audiences up and dancing.
The music continued July 17, when Pop Rocks performed 40 years of dance music at the Night Market on Lafayette Street. The following week, audiences danced to the Patron Latin Rhythms.
At the end of July, Santa Clara favorites, The Houserockers, returned with their signature blend of rock, blues, funk, 60s soul and R&B. Aja Vu, a Steely Dan & Chicago tribute band, then closed out the season.
My compliments to all the members of the Cultural Commission who had a role in selecting the bands to play and perform at Central Park. The talent displayed by these performers was really showcased when each participant enjoyed the opportunity to do a solo. There were no amateurs on stage. Every band member excelled at what they played and made many attendees respond by spontaneously dancing to the music.
Concerts in the Park are not just terrific entertainment; they are a gift to residents from our city and are free. While this year has now come to a wrap, there will be an opportunity to visit next year’s shows during the summer. My guess is that next year’s lineup will feature top quality bands from the Bay Area who perform at some of the largest events on both sides of the bay.
Since our Pavilion was having a construction facelift, visitors sat on the lawn or brought folding chairs of their own. This small inconvenience did not appear to hamper attendance, which continued to grow right up to the last event.
Hats off to Santa Clara’s Cultural Commission, who really performed by bringing such great performers to town. Thank you for your foresight, hard work and great planning.
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