---

   Summer evenings in Hackensack are about to get even better. The beloved Free Friday Lakeside Concert Series returns to Birch Lake Park on Friday, June 19, kicking off another season of live music, community gathering, and lakeside fun. Concerts will take place from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the park pavilion, offering the perfect way to start a weekend in the Northwoods.

   Whether you’re a longtime resident, seasonal visitor, or just passing through, the Lakeside Concerts provide a welcoming place to reconnect with friends, meet new faces, and unwind while enjoying talented musicians against the scenic backdrop of Birch Lake.

   Come Thirsty! Barrel and Vine and Rendezvous Brewing will be on site, and concertgoers are encouraged to grab takeout from one of Hackensack’s local restaurants or pack a cooler from home. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, settle in, and enjoy an evening of great entertainment. This year’s lineup features several new performers, ensuring a season filled with music to suit every taste.

   For those living on Birch Lake, arriving by boat is part of the fun. Cruise over, drop anchor, and enjoy the music from the water. Families can make an evening of it while children explore the playground, splash at the beach, or enjoy the park’s many amenities.

   For more than three decades, the Northwoods Arts Council has been dedicated to its mission of “Bringing the Arts to Life.” Through concerts, performances, and other cultural events, the council continues to enrich the region with opportunities to experience and celebrate the arts.

   These events would not be possible without the countless volunteer hours contributed by council members and the generous support of community partners, grant organizations, local businesses, and individual donors. The Northwoods Arts Council extends its sincere appreciation to Five Wings Arts Council, Sourcewell, Itasca-Mantrap, HLACF, Paws and Claws, and the Hackensack Lions Club for helping make the Lakeside Concert Series possible.

   Join us as we launch the 2026 season and celebrate summer, music, and community in beautiful Hackensack.

Bring your friends, bring your family, and we’ll see you at the park!

---