Freeman Arts adds to lineup of 2026 summer shows
Freeman Arts Pavilion announced a second round of performances for its 2026 milestone season that will celebrate the opening of a new permanent stage and back-of-house facilities at the outdoor venue near Selbyville.
A program of the Joshua M. Freeman Foundation, a fundraising arts nonprofit, Freeman Arts Pavilion will present its 19th season with a mix of live music, comedy, theater and family-friendly performances. The foundation continues its mission to bring accessible arts experiences to the region while enhancing the experience for artists and audiences alike through its newly constructed performance infrastructure.
Performances will kick off Wednesday, July 8, with Matteo Bocelli – Falling In Love World Tour. Building on the first wave of shows revealed in February, the newly announced performances highlight the wide range of entertainment audiences can expect during this celebratory season.
Performing artists include disco legends KC and the Sunshine Band, Friday, July 10; country star Jon Pardi, Thursday, Aug. 20; blues-rock guitarist Gary Clark Jr., Saturday, Sept. 5; and country artist Lee Brice, Saturday, Sept. 12. Tribute acts bring classic hits to life, including 1964 the Tribute, Saturday, July 11; Forever Motown, Friday, Aug. 14; Magical Mystery Doors Presents Beatles/Zeppelin/Doors, Friday, Aug. 28; and Eaglemania: The World’s Greatest Eagles Tribute Band, Saturday, Oct. 3. Family-friendly and free programming includes the Freeman Arts Family Fun Fest, Wednesday, July 15; Go Go Gadjet, also July 15; Locals Under the Lights, Thursday, July 23; This Is Delaware: An Arts Celebration for DE250, Saturday, July 25; Eric Dittelman: Comedy Mind Reader, Thursday, July 30; the high-energy Celtic show Tartan Terrors, Saturday, Aug. 22; and First State Ballet Theatre, Thursday, Aug. 27.
With the debut of the new stage, audiences will also experience choices of reserved seating and the reimagined grand green, featuring a nearly 30-foot grade that will enhance sight lines from all seating areas. A shifted layout orientation improves the overall viewing experience and connects all areas of the venue, making it easier for guests to reach the grand green and seating areas.
The stage has also been rotated about 90 degrees, allowing performers to continue enjoying Freeman Arts Pavilion’s signature sunsets without facing direct sunlight. The new orientation will allow patrons to enjoy direct views of the stage nestled within a backdrop of mature trees, as well as views of the lake.
Depending on the show, audiences can choose from a variety of seating options, including reserved seating sections, general admission across the lawn and terrace, and standing-room-only pits for fans who want to be close to the stage.
Learn more at freemanarts.org.
