KEEPIN' IT FREE SINCE 1993
Steamboat Free Summer Concerts was conceived and founded in 1993 by concert promoter John Waldman of Great Knight Productions and Joe Kboudi, owner of the local record store All That Jazz. The inaugural season featured two concerts—Robben Ford and Wind Machine—held on the courthouse lawn in downtown Steamboat Springs.
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Funding for the series was provided through local businesses, the Steamboat Springs Chamber, and concession sales. The Steamboat Springs Arts Council provided administrative support for many years through 2008.
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From 1994 through 1997, the series expanded to four concerts each summer and featured nationally recognized artists such as Leon Russell, David Grisman, and the Spin Doctors. Attendance grew rapidly, and the concerts became so popular that one lane of Lincoln Avenue was closed to accommodate the overflow crowds.
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By 1998, the growing popularity of the series made it clear that a larger venue was needed. Police Chief J.D. Hays and Parks and Recreation Director Jeff Nelson suggested relocating the concerts to Howelsen Hill. The move proved to be a perfect fit, providing a beautiful outdoor venue capable of accommodating thousands of music lovers at each performance.
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From 1998 through 2008, the series grew to five concerts each summer, including two shows held at the Headwall venue at Steamboat Ski Area. During this period, notable artists such as John Hiatt and Michael Franti & Spearhead performed for local residents and visitors alike.
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As the series expanded, production and artist costs increased significantly. In addition to support from local business ,corporate sponsors and private donors, the City of Steamboat Springs provided financial assistance through the arts and culture portion of its general fund.
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With the workload continuing to grow, Steamboat Free Summer Concerts was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2009. Since then, a dedicated volunteer board has worked year-round to present five free concerts each summer at Howelsen Hill.
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As production costs continued to rise, eventually reaching an annual operating budget of nearly $500,000, the Steamboat Springs City Council graciously increased its financial contribution by establishing a dedicated line item within the city’s annual budget. This support has helped cover production expenses while also enabling the organization to attract larger national touring acts, including Billy Strings, Trampled by Turtles, St. Paul & The Broken Bones, The Wood Brothers, and, most recently, Lettuce.
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Now in its 34th season, Steamboat Free Summer Concerts welcomes nearly 25,000 residents and visitors each summer to five free concerts at Howelsen Hill. The series has become one of Steamboat Springs’ most anticipated and beloved summer traditions, enriching the community through live music and providing free access to world-class entertainment for all.