Free Coney Island Summer Concerts Saved With $600K Funding Bump

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK -- Free summer concerts can continue at two Coney Island venues through 2025 after elected officials secured a $600,000 annual donation, officials announced this week.

There will be free SummerStage shows at the Ford Ampitheater and Seaside Park for the next six summers after City Councilman Mark Treyger and Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams secured much-needed funds, the New York Economic Development Corporation announced Thursday.

“Given the considerable public funding involved in building the Ford Amphitheater, I have long insisted that it was the responsibility of NYCEDC’s tenant to fund to free community events.” stated Treyger.

"I am already looking forward to this summer's shows and thrilled knowing our community will be able to enjoy them for years to come."

New York real estate company iStar and the City Parks Foundation will provide $600,000 per yer to put on free shows in the Coney Island venues, which first opened in 2016, said officials.

Until now, shows have been funded through the city's discretionary funding budget as the electeds worked to find a long-term backer, according to NYCEDC.

This summer's lineup will be announced in weeks to come.