STEUBENVILLE — Thursday nights in downtown Steubenville are about to get a lot more entertaining with the Fort Steuben Summer Concert Series returning for its 20th season, bringing music, community and summer tradition to the downtown area.

The concert series kicks off May 28 with performances by Ashley Marina and The New Pure Gold, with a special Fourth of July weekend concert featuring three Ohio Valley favorites also on the calendar.

“What began as a community gathering centered around live music has grown into one of the Ohio Valley’s most popular summer traditions, attracting thousands of visitors to the riverfront each season,” Historic Fort Steuben Director Paul Zuros said. “The weekly concerts have also provided a boost to local restaurants, shops and downtown businesses throughout the summer months.”

Zuros said the Summer Concert Series “has become much more than just a concert.”

“For many families and friends, Thursday nights at the fort are part of their summer routine. People come together to relax, enjoy the music and reconnect with the community,” he said.

The 2026 schedule again offers a wide range of musical styles designed to appeal to audiences of all ages, he said. Organizers work throughout the year with Rick Witkowski and Deb Witkowski of Studio L, along with Earl Tuttle of Ohio Valley Audio, to select performers from the many acts seeking a place in the series.

“We hear from dozens of musicians every year who would like to perform here,” Zuros said. “Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate everyone, but we work hard to create a lineup with something for every musical taste.”

Support from sponsors and concertgoers continues to play a major role in keeping the concerts free for the public.

“It takes close to $25,000 each season to present the concert series,” Zuros explained. “We are incredibly thankful for our sponsors, our volunteers and the audiences who continue to support these concerts year after year.”

Major sponsors for the 20th anniversary season include the Kessler Family, Fort Steuben Maintenance, the Hershey Family, the Ohio Arts Council and Trinity Health System, along with many additional businesses and individuals recognized in the annual keepsake concert program.

Jerry Barilla of the Old Fort Steuben Project said preparations for each concert begin long before the first note is played.

“Our volunteers work hard every week to make sure the park looks its best,” Barilla said. “The sound crew begins setup during the afternoon, and by early evening people are already arriving with lawn chairs to enjoy a great night of entertainment along the river.”

Organizers say the atmosphere at the amphitheater is part of what has made the concert series so successful over the past two decades.

“There is truly a sense of community here,” Zuros said. “People come not only for the music but also to spend time with friends, meet new people and enjoy a summer evening outdoors. The amphitheater creates a relaxed setting where everyone can enjoy themselves.”

Here’s the full lineup for 2026:

— May 28 — Ashley Marina, 7 p.m.; The New Pure Gold, 8 p.m.

— June 4 — George Kokos and The K Band, 7 p.m.; Eli & The Mojo Kings, 8 p.m.

— June 11 — Restless Hearts, 7 p.m.; Aristotle Jones & Appalachian Soul Band, 8 p.m.

— June 18 — Dean Martin, Marilyn Monroe & Frank Sinatra Tribute, 7 p.m.; Vince Villanova Big Band, 8 p.m.

— June 25 — New Age Adenas, 7 p.m.; Out of Eden (A Tribute to the Eagles), 8 p.m.

— July 2 — 1170 Jamboree Staff Band Reunion Show, featuring JoAnn Jones & Mark Statler, 7 p.m.

— July 4 — The Bassett Hounds, 6:30 p.m.; Ron Retzer Trio, 7 p.m.; The Fantasy’s, 8 p.m.

— July 9 — West Liberty Steel Drum Band, 7 p.m.; Yacht Rocket, 8 p.m.

— July 16 — Buddy Anthony Duo, 7 p.m.; Bayou Blue Band, 8 p.m.

— July 23 — Twice as Nice, 7 p.m.; U.S. Kids, 8 p.m.

— July 30 — Megan Paulett, 7 p.m.; Aftermath, 8 p.m.

All concerts are free but donations are welcomed. Bench seating is available, though organizers say patrons are welcome to bring their own chairs or blankets. Food vendors will be on site, but alcohol is prohibited.

For more information, contact the Steubenville Visitors Center at (740) 283-1787.