Live Music
Harrisonburg is for Music Lovers!
Soundtrack for a memorable visit. Nothing characterizes a city quite like its nightlife, and in Harrisonburg, a music lover’s paradise, many great stories are born! Intimate venues like Clementine Cafe, showcasing both local talents and well-known artists, and university theaters such as the Forbes Center at JMU, captivating audiences with impressive acoustics and nationally-known acts, highlight the town’s rich cultural diversity and appreciation for the arts. Other downtown spots, such as The Golden Pony, renowned for touring live music and DJ sets, and Court Square Theater, which hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, films, and comedy, further contribute to the vibrant musical landscape, creating a tapestry of sounds that make Harrisonburg truly special.
With many extraordinary bands like Old Crow Medicine Show and the Steel Wheels originating in Harrisonburg, the traditions of music genres like Old-Time, folk, alternative country, and Americana run deep. There is a wide mix of musical styles available at Harrisonburg’s popular events and festivals. The Shenandoah Valley Bach Festival, promotes the appreciation of Bach and a featured composer, country, era, or people; the Sing Me High Festival, celebrates Valley music; and MACROCK, a DIY music festival showcases a diverse array of independent acts from across the country. Whether you’re drawn to classical symphonies, the soulful tunes of bluegrass, or a spectrum of musical genres, you’re certain to discover a rhythm that captures your heart amidst the musical gems in this community.
Be sure to check out our events calendar for local live music events happening weekly.
41-F Court Square | 540-433-9189
Located in Harrisonburg, Virginia in the former Rockingham County Motor Company building, Court Square Theaters is Harrisonburg’s downtown art house, featuring: Film, Live Theater, Music, Dance, and Private Rentals.
147 Warsaw Ave. | 540-568-7000
Experience the excitement of the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts at James Madison University, featuring five remarkable venues, each unique and acoustically designed to perfection. The Forbes Center will captivate your spirit with its soaring floor-to-ceiling glass lobbies, comfortable seating with ample legroom and upgraded audience amenities. enjoy extraordinary dance, theatre and music performances by critically acclaimed guest artists and JMU’s award-winning faculty members, students and alumni.
153 S. Main St. | 540-801-8881
Located in downtown Harrisonburg, Clementine serves weekday lunch, weekend brunch and dinner. After dinner they host trivia, Open Mic, DJ and award-winning music on Friday and Saturday nights.
181 N. Main St. | 540-901-2628
The Golden Pony serves brunch, lunch and dinner. Make sure to check out all of their events that happen downstairs. They provide a professional sound stage for live music Sunday-Thursday and DJs on the weekends. The Pony was voted BEST MUSIC VENUE in the Shenandoah Valley by Virginia Living Magazine.
350 University Blvd. | 540-216-0295
Island Wing Company® is a full-service restaurant and bar featuring baked, never-fried chicken wings, plus sandwiches, burgers, seafood, mac & cheese, salads, and sides. With over 50 craft beers on tap, seasonal cocktails, and frequent live music, Island Wing Company® offers a lively atmosphere for enjoying great food and drinks.
800 N. Main St. | 540-421-6599
Enjoy a variety of locally-brewed beers. Inside a renovated Coca-Cola bottling plant, this brewery is dedicated to producing quality and unique craft beer utilizing the support of the local community.
20 S. Mason St., Suite B10 | 540-271-2614
The Friendly Fermenter is cranking out new homebrew inspired beers weekly, only available in their tasting room. This small cozy taproom brings local artists in weekly. Shows are free and the music is quite diverse, ranging from country to bluegrass to classic rock.
217 S. Liberty St. | 540-217-5452
Enjoy a variety of locally-brewed beers and an intimate tasting room in downtown Harrisonburg. The tasting room lends itself to be a space where people can come together and do more than just drink craft beer. Come listen to good people who are passionate about making music here.
120 W. Wolfe St. | 540-217-0366
Restless Moons is bringing together the things that make Harrisonburg great, Restless Moons Brewing stands by great beer, great music, and most importantly great people. Enjoy weekly shows under twinkling lights in their back beer garden.
325 N. Liberty St. | 540-607-8084
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Sage Bird Ciderworks, where you can savor their award-winning ciders, wines, and cider cocktails, alongside delicious bites from their kitchen. The cozy, welcoming space is perfect for enjoying live music from talented local artists, with karaoke and open mic nights adding to the lively entertainment.
241 East Market St. | 540-217-5939
This Harrisonburg facility has a 4 barrel brewing system, where they are testing out new recipes by brewing small batches of unique beers. Come party with them! They host weekly events like Happy Hour, Minute Man Monday, and Game Night, along with a variety of exciting featured events.