Note: Authored by David Menconi, this piece has been produced in partnership with Raleigh Arts. Menconi's latest book, "Oh, Didn't They Ramble: Rounder Records and the Transformation of American Roots Music," was published by University of North Carolina Press. His podcast, Carolina Calling, explores the history of the Tar Heel State through music.

Low-key and long-running, the live music series LIVE at Lake Raleigh has been around long enough to qualify as a venerable local springtime tradition. The 2026 edition features four free shows every other Thursday evening, starting April 9 with the local funk-blues quintet Duck playing two 45-minute sets. The shows happen on the shore of Lake Raleigh at North Carolina State University's Centennial Campus in Raleigh.

“This is our ninth year, and LIVE at Lake Raleigh has really become a fan favorite,” says Liza Wade Green, interim director of series co-producer NC State LIVE. “Our program is known for bringing in artists from all over the world, mostly at Stewart Theater. This series is more of a chill experience, free and open to everyone. It really celebrates North Carolina musicians, and brings people around the lake where there’s so much to do. The concert series is an anchor.”

Indeed, LIVE at Lake Raleigh is just one of the many attractions and events that happen around Lake Raleigh, as programmed by concert series co-producer Centennial Campus Placemaking. Also in the vicinity are bicycles that can be checked out for free, disc golf, 321 Coffee (run by baristas with intellectual disabilities), James B. Hunt Jr. Library, and artist Larry Bell’s “Reds and Whites” sculpture.

LIVE at Lake Raleigh’s 2026 lineup ranges from Duck (whose latest album “Funk Prayer” is to be released on April 10, the day after their show) to the classical/world-music crossover pairing of Kaira Ba and Jennifer Curtis. Also on tap are Venezuelan-born Latin fusion singer Laura Gonzqui and the Virginia-based Americana trio Palmyra. It’s eclectic all the way around.

“I’m most interested in artists who move traditional forms into the future,” says Green. “I love this year’s lineup, the way they blend traditions in different ways. I like to say we have artists from around the world and around the corner. We try to celebrate the real depth of music from across the state. It’s an exciting group of musicians. Something different for each show, and great to take away.”

^{photo by Becky Kirkland}

While concert-goers are allowed to bring their own food and drink in coolers, LIVE at Lake Raleigh will have food trucks to enhance the festive atmosphere. Dancing is encouraged but not required.

"One thing I love most about LIVE at Lake Raleigh is that it appeals to every generation,” says Green. “My own kids have grown up going to these shows, and now they come with their grandparents. It’s not unusual to see three or four generations enjoying the music together. It’s all about connection, in whatever way feels right to you whether it’s getting up to dance or hanging back with your picnic and lawn chairs.”

^{photo by Becky Kirkland}

2026 LIVE at Lake Raleigh schedule

• April 9 – Duck
• April 23 – Kaira Ba with Jennifer Curtis
• May 7 – Laura Gonzqui
• May 21 – Palmyra

Concerts start at 6pm at Lake Raleigh, at the corner of Main Campus Dr. and Campus Shore Dr. on North Carolina State University's Centennial Campus. The show goes on rain or shine, unless the weather turns dangerously stormy.

Admission is free, and so is on-campus parking after 5pm. Coolers are allowed, as is beer and wine (but not liquor or spirits). Pets and smoking are not permitted.

For further details, see the series FAQ.