Friday After 5 organizers have announced the lineup for the 2026 season, marking the event’s 30th anniversary with what officials describe as its largest and most diverse schedule to date.
The free summer concert series will run from May 15 through Aug. 7 along the downtown Owensboro riverfront, featuring a mix of national touring acts, regional performers, tribute bands, and emerging artists across two stages.
For three decades, the weekly event has drawn thousands to the riverfront for live music and community activities.
“This is without a doubt the biggest and most exciting season we’ve ever put together,” said Heath Eric, CEO of The Eric Group and talent buyer for Friday After 5. “The level of talent, the diversity of the lineup, and the number of special moments planned for this 30th anniversary are unmatched. We have several major nights on the schedule and even more surprises still to come.”
Brad Howton, chair of Friday After 5, said the milestone season reflects both the event’s history and the support behind it.
“For 30 years, Friday After 5 has been built by an incredible group of board members, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who believed in creating something special for Owensboro,” Howton said. “This season is a celebration of that legacy and the tremendous support that has helped grow Friday After 5 into one of the region’s premier free weekly concert series and street festivals.”
The season opens May 15 with City of Owensboro Night, featuring Juice Box Heroes on the main stage and The Green Lights on the Overlook Stage.
Other highlights include Jimmy Church Band on May 22; Sterling Elza and KG & The Bad Habits on May 29; and a June 5 lineup featuring Resurrection – A Journey Tribute with Reckless: America’s Bryan Adams Experience.
Midseason performances include Hayden Coffman and L’il Man J on June 12; Nigel Dupree & The Heat on June 19; and 7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience on June 26.
A July 3 celebration will feature a drone show as part of an America 250-themed event, followed by the 30th Anniversary Celebration on July 10 with Nashville duo Lakeview headlining.
Additional acts include Vinyl Radio on July 17, Unlimited Show Band on July 24, and a July 31 lineup featuring DJ Shay’s Dance Party and Owensboro artist Cam Thompson.
The season will conclude Aug. 7 with a Back to School Bash and finale, with the headlining act still to be announced.
Friday After 5 runs each Friday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is free. The Kroger Street Fair opens at 5 p.m., with the Overlook Stage hosting performances from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., followed by main stage concerts from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
In addition to live music, the event features food vendors, family activities, and weekly attractions. Organizers said additional themed nights, vendor announcements, and special events will be released throughout the season.
Principal sponsors include Jagoe Homes as the title sponsor, along with Romain Subaru and Romain Cadillac, Owensboro Racing & Gaming, Atmos Energy, and Kroger. Community partners include OMU, Rhoads & Rhoads, RiverValley Behavioral Health, and several other local organizations.
More information, including weekly details and updates, is available at FridayAfter5.com.
By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times