ParkStage, a large-scale, open-air performance venue overseen by the Count Basie Center
for the Arts, is coming to the East Freehold Park Fairgrounds next summer.
The announcement, made by the Count Basie Theatre in collaboration with Monmouth
County Tourism, is part of Monmouth County’s larger effort to commemorate the 250th
anniversary of the country as well as the Count Basie Center’s centennial year.
The hope is that ParkStage will become a marquee destination for live entertainment in
New Jersey, drawing thousands of attendees to a variety of shows including music, comedy and more, Count Basie Center CEO Adam Philpson said.
A schedule will be announced later this year.
“ParkStage is a meaningful part of our centennial celebration — a time to honor where
we’ve been and look ahead to what’s possible,” he said. “It reflects our belief in the power
of the arts to bring people together, support the local economy, and create moments of joy
for everyone in our community.”
Monmouth County Commissioner Thomas Arnone agreed.
“We are so excited to announce the ParkStage concert series, which is part of our celebration of America’s 250th birthday,” he said. “We will have a variety of shows with
different artists from across the country who will be right here at the Showgrounds to help
us celebrate.”
Centrally located in one of New Jersey’s fastest-growing population corridors — with more
than 2.3 million people living within a 25-mile radius — ParkStage offers easy access via all
major roadways and a scenic setting that blends rural charm with modern convenience,
free on-site parking and luxury VIP accommodations.
“As we mark 100 years of the Basie Center, ParkStage represents our continuing
investment in this community,” Count Basie Center Chair Jeremy Grunin said. “This venue
will provide new opportunities for performers, attract visitors to our region, and create
shared experiences that strengthen the cultural and economic fabric of Monmouth County
and beyond.”
Monmouth County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon said the timing is perfect.
“America’s 250th birthday is coming in 2026, and we have been working hard in Monmouth
County for over two years to craft a fitting celebration of the birth of the greatest nation on
Earth,” she said. “A major focus for the MonmouthNJ 250 Committee was to bring all of
Monmouth’s stakeholders together — the towns, the arts, organizations, schools,
businesses and tourism — to make really special things happen.”
