Natalie Else

As summer approaches and temperatures rise, students gear up for live music. Summer concerts have become a seasonal must, offering many fans a chance to hear their favorite artists, genres or songs. From outdoor amphitheaters and arenas to smaller shows, venues of all kinds prepare to welcome fans and artists. 

Freshman Macy Dolezal plans to attend one of her favorite bands, The Goo Goo Dolls on Aug. 19 at the Astro Amphitheater in La Vista. 

Dolezal specifically enjoys summer concerts because they “add to the fun of being out of school and it is exciting seeing songs being performed live.”

Dolezal hopes to hear songs “Broadway,” “Sympathy,” “Name” and “Iris” at the concert.

For junior Katherine Dietz, this summer’s concert season is shaping up to be a memorable one. She is planning to see two of her favorite bands—Stray Kids on June 6. at Oracle Park in San Francisco and My Chemical Romance on July 19. in Arlington, Virginia.

“They are both some of my favorite bands, with My Chemical Romance being one of my favorites for several years,” Dietz said. 

Though Dietz does not attend concerts on a regular basis, she tries to go to a few shows each year. For her, summer concerts stand out from the rest.

”Summer concerts are special because they are usually bigger concerts, and it’s easier to go with friends,” she said. “Plus, summer concerts usually have good weather, too.”

She does not have any particular songs she wishes to hear, but is holding out hope for a special announcement. Dietz said, “I would love it if My Chemical Romance announced a new album.”

Senior Amelia Kafka went to The Backseat Lovers with her friends on May 2 at The Admiral Theater in Omaha and is going to The Lumineers, one of her favorite bands, on July 26 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City.

Kafka, similarly to Dietz, is not a regular concert goer, but when she does get the time to go, she loves them. 

 “Summer concerts are so special because they are such a staple summer event to go to with your friends and get dressed up for,” Kafka said. “They are always such fun memories to look back on with your friends.”

Kafka really hopes to hear “Sleep on the Floor,” “Flowers in Your Hair” and “Slow it Down” by The Lumineers, as well as “Watch Your Mouth” by the Backseat Lovers. 

As students anticipate hearing their favorite artists and bands, staying comfortable and safe becomes a priority. It is important to prepare ahead of time. 

Some survival tips for summer concerts include always staying hydrated, bringing a bandana or hat, wearing sunscreen, packing a mini fan or misting spray and never taking drinks from strangers. 

Some artists to look out for this summer include country musician, Tyler Childers who is performing at CHI Health Center on July 24, Megan Moroney who is performing at The Astro Theater in La Vista on May 16, Weezer who is performing at Stir Cove in Omaha on July 20 and Earth, Wind and Fire who is performing at The Astro Theater on July 16. 

Summer concerts have ultimately become a staple part of the summer experience and they add energy to the season itself. When the weather gets warmer, the music undeniably gets louder.