America Place at River Ridge, with the Jasteka Cultural Center, is proud to host the fourth consecutive “Play America” Community Concert. This beloved annual tradition returns with the world-renowned Louisville Orchestra on Thursday, July 2, 2026, bringing together music, food, family activities, and community celebration for an unforgettable summer evening.

Generously sponsored by Jim and Irene Karp through the Jasteka Cultural Center at America Place, this free event invites guests of all ages to experience live orchestral music under the stars while celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.

Event Details

Date: Thursday, July 2, 2026

Location: America Place at River Ridge

Admission: FREE

Evening Schedule

• 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM | Food Trucks & Family Field Activities
• 8:30 PM – 10:00 PM | Louisville Orchestra Performance conducted by Teddy Abrams

Tickets are not required, but registration is encouraged to receive event updates, parking information, and programming announcements.

A Community Tradition Returns

“Play America” has become a signature summer tradition for Southern Indiana and the Louisville region, welcoming families, music lovers, and community members for an evening that blends culture, entertainment, and celebration.

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy a relaxed outdoor concert atmosphere featuring incredible live music, local food vendors, and interactive activities for children and families.

With free admission, free parking, and entertainment for all ages, Play America continues to be one of the region’s most anticipated community events of the summer.

An Evening with the Louisville Orchestra

Led by acclaimed conductor Teddy Abrams, the Louisville Orchestra will perform a dynamic and celebratory program featuring both classical favorites and unexpected contemporary selections.

The evening’s performance includes:

• The Star-Spangled Banner
• Leonard Bernstein’s Candide Overture
• Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8
• Vieuxtemps’ Souvenir d’Amérique featuring violin soloists
• Anthony R. Green’s A Love Letter to Scotland
• A heavy metal-inspired interpretation of Grieg’s In the Hall of the Mountain King
• PDQ Bach’s comedic 1712 Overture
• Iconic music from John Williams’ Star Wars

This exciting lineup offers something for every audience member — from lifelong orchestra enthusiasts to first-time concertgoers.

Food Trucks & Local Favorites

Come hungry and enjoy a variety of food and beverage options from some of the region’s favorite local vendors, including:

• Kona Ice
• Lil Cheezers
• Ramiros Cantina & Bar
• Please & Thank You
• Spinelli’s
• Spotz Gelato
• Big Moe’s BBQ

Additional food trucks and vendors will be announced closer to the event.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the evening.

Family Field Activities

Before the concert begins, families can enjoy interactive activities and entertainment throughout the Family Field area, including:

• Community musical performances
• Balloon artists
• Bounce houses
• Louisville Orchestra crafts
• Face painting
• And more family-friendly surprises

The Family Field experience is designed to make Play America an event the entire family can enjoy together.

Know Before You Go

• Guests should bring their own lawn chairs or blankets for seating
• Free parking will be available
• No outside alcohol permitted
• No pets permitted
• Event schedule is weather dependent and rainchecks will not be provided

RSVP for Free

While tickets are not required, guests are encouraged to RSVP in advance to receive event updates and important event information.

Free Registration Here

Gather your friends and family and join us for an evening of music, celebration, and community at America Place’s fourth annual “Play America” concert.

We look forward to celebrating with you this summer!