Your Guide to Live Music in Southwest Michigan

Southwest Michigan’s live music scene is packed with variety, intimate acoustic sets, beachside jazz, rooftop DJs, brewery jam sessions and full-orchestra performances. You’ll find live music almost every weekend, all year long, in venues ranging from theaters and wineries to parks and patios. Whether you're planning a night out with friends, a relaxed family day or a full weekend of exploring, there’s always a show worth catching nearby.

Must-See Music Venues

The Acorn | Three Oaks

Housed in a beautifully restored factory, The Acorn is known for its pristine acoustics and artist-first focus. From nationally touring indie acts to local legends, every seat here feels personal.

Box Factory for the Arts | St. Joseph

This former paper box plant now buzzes with creativity. The Box Factory hosts intimate performances ranging from singer-songwriters to spoken word. Their “Birds of a Feather” mural sets the tone before you even step inside.

Howard Performing Arts Center | Berrien Springs

Located on the Andrews University campus, the Howard Center offers a stunning space with exceptional acoustics. It regularly features classical, sacred and international music that leaves audiences inspired.

The Livery | Benton Harbor

The Livery blends small-stage energy with artisan beer and delicious pizza. This restored historic building features a rotating calendar of indie, funk, jazz and blues. While you’re there, don’t miss the “Continued Legacy” mural outside — a celebration of African American history and the vibrant future of Benton Harbor.

The Mendel Center at Lake Michigan College | Benton Harbor

The Mendel Center brings larger touring acts, symphonies and Broadway-style performances to its 1,500-seat Mainstage Theatre. It’s the place for polished productions and seasonal favorites that fill the calendar year-round.

Shadowland Pavilion at Silver Beach | St. Joseph

This open-air pavilion overlooks Lake Michigan and brings live performances to beachgoers in the summer. It’s one of the most scenic spots in the area to enjoy music. 

Even More Places to Catch a Show

All across the region, you’ll find wineries, breweries, distilleries and restaurants hosting incredible local acts — especially on weekends and summer evenings. RyeBelles offers live music on its rooftop until 11 p.m. on select evenings with sunset views of Lake Michigan. Dablon Vineyards and Filkins Vineyards pair their estate wines with acoustic sets that match the relaxed vineyard setting. River Saint Joe in Buchanan books regional acts alongside seasonal farm-to-table meals. Lemon Creek Winery and Round Barn’s multiple locations regularly feature full summer concert series with lawn games, food trucks and family-friendly fun.

Free Concerts, Local Talent and Music Festivals

Live music is especially easy to find in Southwest Michigan during the summer. Head to the John E.N. Howard Bandshell in St. Joseph for the Wednesday Brown Bag Concert Series, where you can enjoy lunchtime tunes with lake and river views. Come back on Sundays for the St. Joseph Municipal Band, a long-standing local favorite performing weekly throughout summer, along with special shows on holidays. Check the St. Joseph Today website for dates and times. 

Looking for something bigger? The Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra offers seasonal concerts that blend classical, pop and holiday music. They perform both indoors at the Mendel Center and outside at scenic spots like the Shadowland Pavilion.

For even more energy, plan around one of our music festivals. The Lake Breeze Music Festival at Silver Beach brings smooth jazz and R&B to the shoreline each July. And the Art, Wine & Music Festival at Domaine Berrien Cellars mixes local art, great music and wine tasting into one perfect summer day.

You’ll also find talented local acts taking the stage all season long — from the rock/country/soul covers and originals of  Pablo’s Great Revenge, the retro‑80s party vibes of The 1985 and the pop‑rock/pop‑punk flair of the Shelby Lentz Band, to the eclectic blend of blues, alt‑country and prairie rock from The Newport Prairie Project, and the versatile funk, pop, R&B/soul and rock of  Still Runnin (formerly Top Secret Band). Whether you come across a set at a brewery, beach bar or backyard stage, there’s always a great show waiting.

The best way to keep track of what’s playing near you? Visit the Southwest Michigan events calendar for up-to-date listings of concerts, festivals and performances happening throughout the region. There’s music to be found every week — just bring your friends and follow the sound.

Explore, Check In, Earn Rewards

Many music venues double as stops for free challenges. The Makers Trail Passport rewards you for visiting Southwest Michigan’s wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries, many of which host weekend performers. The Creative Connections Challenge also includes venues like The Acorn, Box Factory and SMSO, where check-ins earn fun prizes through the Visit Southwest Michigan app. While you’re out, snap a selfie at murals as part of the Murals Challenge. You only need ten to complete it.

Make It a Weekend to Remember

With so much to experience, one night just isn’t enough. Plan a full weekend: start with a Friday night show, sip your way along the Makers Trail with live music on Saturday, then wrap up with a relaxing rooftop set or free beach concert on Sunday at Weko Beach.

Lodging in Southwest Michigan fills up quickly, especially during the summer and the fall color season. Book your hotel early to stay close to your favorite venues. While you're here, explore the communities where the music happens. Local shops, great restaurants, scenic parks and beautiful beaches are just steps from the stage. There’s a lot to enjoy throughout your stay, before, after and between the music.

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