Weekly live music returns to Market Square starting May 5 when Concerts on the Square, the City’s free live music series presented by First Century Bank, begins its 2026 season. 

On Tuesday nights in May, June and July, some of Knoxville’s most talented jazz musicians perform in a lineup booked by Knoxville Jazz Orchestra director Vance Thompson. The Sam Adams Quartet kicks off the series May 5, with music from 7-9 p.m. 

Third Thursdays in May through September feature a variety of musical styles, also from 7-9 p.m.:  

May 21: Tim Decker and TN River
June 18: Dancing Machine: Tribute Band to the Jacksons in collaboration with Beck Cultural Exchange Center for Juneteenth
July 16: Tidalwave Road
Aug. 20: Pink Houses: The Ultimate Mellencamp Experience
Sept. 17: Square Dancing on the Square 

Bring your own chairs for first-come, first-served seating. No food or beer will be sold on Market Square. Food is available from restaurants for take-out, but alcohol can only be consumed inside establishments or on their patios. 

Learn about the performers and weather-related cancellations by following City of Knoxville Special Events Facebook page. 

A full calendar is posted at KnoxvilleTN.gov/Concerts.