Music Under the Stars: Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s Free Summer Concert Series Returns to Williamsburg and Beyond
One of my favorite summer traditions is back—and if you’ve never experienced it, make this the year you do. The Virginia Symphony Orchestra (VSO) is once again bringing the magic of live symphonic music to parks, amphitheaters, and riverfronts across Hampton Roads—and every concert is completely free.
From Norfolk to Virginia Beach, and yes, right here in Williamsburg at the Lake Matoaka Amphitheatre, the VSO will perform 12 outdoor concerts between June and September. These shows offer an unforgettable mix of Broadway, classical, and movie magic, all set against some of the most beautiful natural backdrops in the region.
A Concert for Everyone
The 2025 series kicks off in June with “Opera and Oz,” featuring the stunning vocals of soprano Symone Harcum and a playlist that blends opera classics with musical theater favorites. You’ll hear “O mio babbino caro” from Gianni Schicchi, “Home” from The Wiz, “The Rainbow Connection,” and selections from Wicked—a mix that promises chills and smiles in equal measure.
Catch these performances early in the season at:
June 6 – Chesapeake City Park June 7 – Gloucester Arts Festival June 8 – Historic Cavalier Hotel, Virginia Beach June 13 – Portsmouth City Park
In July, the VSO turns up the drama with “Heroes, Villains, and Virtuosos,” a powerful program that dives into the sounds of good and evil. Think John Williams’s Superman March, Grieg’s Peer Gynt, selections from West Side Story, and even Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony. It’s an emotional rollercoaster—perfect for a summer night.
July 10 – Neptune’s Park, Virginia Beach July 20 – Town Point Park, Norfolk
Then in August and September, the summer winds down with the popular “Symphony by the Sea” and “Symphony Under the Stars.” These performances showcase classical favorites and cinematic scores in dreamy waterfront settings:
August 14 & 28 – Neptune’s Park, Virginia Beach August 30 – Yorktown Riverwalk August 31 – Chesapeake City Park September 5 – Lake Matoaka Amphitheatre, Williamsburg
A Community Celebration
These concerts aren’t just about music—they’re about community. The VSO has partnered with organizations like Norfolk Festevents, the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival, Celebrate Yorktown Committee, and the College of William & Mary to make these shows accessible and fun for everyone. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and soak it all in.
It’s not often you get to see world-class musicians perform for free, so whether you’re a die-hard classical fan or just looking for something special to do on a summer evening, this is a must-do.
You can find the full schedule and more details at the official VSO website:
https://virginiasymphony.org/free-summer-concerts/
Meet Your Local Guide: Mr. Williamsburg
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— John Womeldorf, a.k.a. Mr. Williamsburg