Legendary band brings decades of feel-good Americana to Zittel Family Amphitheater as 13-week summer series begins in Historic Folsom
With the arrival of the warm summer evenings, the heart of Historic Folsom is set to come alive this week as the Folsom Historic District Association launches its annual Summer Twilight Concert Series. The 2025 season opens with a high-energy performance by Northern California’s legendary Mumbo Gumbo on Thursday, June 5, marking the start of thirteen weeks of free, live outdoor music under the stars.
A staple of the region’s music scene for more than 30 years, Mumbo Gumbo has earned a reputation as one of Northern California’s most enduring and dynamic live acts. Known for their “genre-bending Americana” sound, the group fuses elements of rock, soul, zydeco, country, afropop, and lush balladry into a joyful, danceable blend affectionately known as the “Mumbo Gumbo sound.” It’s a musical gumbo that delights audiences of all ages—and one that has built the band a fiercely loyal following throughout the state.
Mumbo Gumbo opens Historic Folsom’s Summer Concert Series this Thursday evening.
Led by two powerhouse singer-songwriters—Chris Webster and Tracy Walton—the band’s seven-plus member lineup includes drums, bass, saxophone, guitar, and keyboards, offering a full-bodied sound that fills any venue they play. From festivals to small-town parks, Mumbo Gumbo is known not just for musical talent but for creating a festive sense of community wherever they perform. Over the years, they have released nine albums of original music and earned accolades not only for their artistry but also for their consistent support of charitable and community organizations.
Their performance Thursday evening at the Zittel Family Amphitheater, located in Historic Folsom Plaza, runs from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Admission is free, and beer and wine will be available for purchase on site throughout the entire summer concert series. Attendees are encouraged to bring low back lawn chairs and enjoy the shows from the grassy amphitheater space.
Concert kicks of 13 weeks of live music
The concert also signals the beginning of one of Folsom’s most cherished seasonal traditions. Now entering another exciting season, the Summer Twilight Concert Series will continue every Thursday night through August 28, transforming the Zittel Family Amphitheater into a vibrant hub of music, community, and summer fun. Sponsored by local businesses and supported by the Folsom Historic District Association, the series draws hundreds of attendees each week who gather with lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and friends for a relaxing evening of entertainment.
This year’s concert lineup is a musical showcase of regional talent, featuring everything from rock and blues to country, folk, and funk. Following Mumbo Gumbo’s opener, the series continues with Adam Aldama & The Aces on June 12, bringing their rock and dance party energy. On June 19, Jessica Malone brings her soulful vocals and introspective songwriting to the stage, followed by The Golden Cadillacs on June 26, delivering a nostalgic blend of country-rock.
The series rolls into July with Wildwood Roses on July 3, offering folk harmonies and heartfelt tunes just in time for Independence Day weekend. The electric Dirty Cello brings its eclectic blues-rock fusion on July 10, followed by the versatile AKAlive Band on July 17, and fan-favorite party band Apple Z on July 24. Rounding out the month on July 31 is Wayside, performing a mix of classic rock covers and originals.
August keeps the momentum going with Sky Kings on August 7, followed by the fiery fiddle-fronted Tom Rigney and Flambeau on August 14. The Ryan Hernandez Band returns with their upbeat rock stylings on August 21, before the season concludes on August 28 with rising local country-pop stars, Ariel Jean Band.
Thanks to recent enhancements to the venue—including a permanent shade structure and upgraded sound system—attendees can expect an even better concert experience. The series also provides an economic boost to the Historic District, as visitors often explore the local shops, boutiques, and restaurants before and after the shows.
Parking is free and convenient, with the Historic District Parking Garage located just steps away at 905 Leidesdorff Street. Early arrival is encouraged to secure a good spot on the grassy amphitheater lawn. Attendees are encouraged to bring low back lawn chairs and enjoy the shows from the amphitheater space.
In addition to the Thursday night Twilight Concert Series, the Zittel Family Amphitheater will also host the return of the Hometown Country Radio Show on June 27, a Grand Ole Opry-style concert featuring a wide range of musical acts in one night of variety entertainment.
For full details on these events and other summer happenings, visit the Folsom Times Entertainment Section and Community Calendar at www.folsomtimes.com or check out the official Historic District site at www.historicfolsom.org.
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