Live Music and Entertainment in Jersey City
We’re lucky to live in a city filled with many live music performances taking all over! The various venues offer something for everyone to enjoy, from jazz and rock to world music. So, if you’re looking to soak in live music and culture, enjoy checking out our list of venues offering artists a chance to show off their talents, from favorite neighborhood bars to iconic city sites.
Box Café – 115 Palisade Ave
Box Café is a French-inspired, cozy café in the Heights of Jersey City. This charming café becomes a stage for talented artists to showcase their skills every Friday. You can immerse yourself in the beautiful ambiance this café offers while indulging in its delicious, curated menu, all while enjoying live music.
Stay updated on their Instagram for the latest performers, and be sure to secure your reservation for an unforgettable evening!
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Fox and Crow – 594 Palisade Ave
A pub & parlor, this is a favorite spot for many locals. Fox and Crow have many exciting live performances in their exclusive parlor room, from musicians and open mic nights to comedy. Enjoy sipping on a cocktail while listening to some of the best talent in the area. Check out their upcoming events to plan your date night today!
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Green Pear – 93 Franklin St
This is truly a gem in the Heights of Jersey City. When entering and experiencing Green Pear, you’ll surely enjoy Eastern European food fused with opera, jazz, and more! Space is limited, so make your reservation and check out their upcoming events to plan your night.
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Groove on the Grove – Grove Street Path Plaza
Groove on the Grove is a free summer weekly music series featuring various musicians and performers. This family-friendly event brings the community together to celebrate Jersey City and its diversity. The live performances occur every Wednesday from 6-9 PM until August.
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Moore’s Lounge, aka BILL & RUTH’S – 189 Monticello Ave
For the past 40 years, Moore’s Lounge has been a legendary institution in Jersey City, attracting a diverse community of jazz enthusiasts. You can enjoy live music every Friday and Sunday. Sundays are particularly special, featuring a unique “Jazz clinic” atmosphere where talented emerging musicians perform, engaging with a local audience eager to learn and exchange knowledge about the roots and evolution of jazz. In addition, the artists perform and share their careers and story with the audience.
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The Brightside Tavern – 141 Bright St
Brightside Tavern is a favorite spot for pizza and a wide array of culinary dishes. It’s not just about the food though,—this tavern offers fantastic entertainment options. Mondays are dedicated to jazz, Tuesdays feature lively karaoke and open mic nights, and Thursdays are reserved for comedy night. Remember to stay updated by checking their website or social media for any schedule changes.
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The Historic Jersey City & Harsimus Cemetery – 435 Newark Ave
The Harsimus Cemetery is a unique cemetery going beyond its traditional purpose and offers concerts, community events, and much more! The cemetery collaborates with local groups to organize events throughout the year, which help raise funds for maintaining the grounds and caretaker facilities. Be sure to check their calendar regularly to stay informed about their exciting lineup of events.
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The Statuary JC – 53 Congress St
The Statuary is a true gem in Jersey City Heights. It is an intimate live music venue celebrated for its jazz, arts, and culture giving the community a chance to come together and enjoy genuine talent. Check out their Instagram for the latest updates and upcoming performances.
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The Hutton – 225 Hutton St
Located in the Heights of Jersey City, this Irish bar is a great spot for brunch or dinner with a lively atmosphere. They have a wonderful patio area to enjoy sitting outdoors if you prefer! Every Sunday from 4PM-7 PM, Irish musicians come to play together.
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White Eagle Hall – 337 Newark Ave
Located in Downtown Jersey City, White Eagle Hall is a restored and renovated historic theatre providing live music, theatre, comedy, dance, family shows and more! Check out their upcoming shows to plan your next date or family night!
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WORD Bookstore – 29 McWilliams Pl
WORD is an independent bookstore located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn and Jersey City. We are lucky to have a wonderful bookstore that helps create a sense of community and culture. You can join their open mic nights, giving performers three minutes on the mic to share your own! Check out their calendar for the next open mic night.
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Know of any other live music or entertainment happening in Jersey City? Keep us updated with your favorite live music spots!
Author: Arati Patel
Arati is a professional immersed in the environmental and animal welfare field. In her free time, she enjoys walking and spending time with shelter dogs, exploring the outdoors, and always ready to find a new coffee shop. A born and raised Jersey City local, she considers herself a life-long learner who is ready to write and craft inspiring stories to share with everyone!
