Looking for free summer events in Hudson, NC? Searching for live music near Lenoir, Hickory, Granite Falls, or Morganton? The HUB Station Arts Center is excited to announce the return of our beloved Third Thursday Concerts on the Lawn for the 2026 season — now with an exciting new addition: Movie Nights!
Now entering our fourth season, Third Thursday has become a favorite summer tradition in Hudson, bringing the community together for free outdoor entertainment, food trucks, and great local music in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
From April through September, each Third Thursday will feature either a live outdoor concert or a music-centered movie night on the front lawn of The HUB Station Arts Center. Whether you enjoy country, bluegrass, Americana, southern rock, classic films, or simply spending a summer evening outdoors with friends and family, there’s something for everyone this season.
Event Information
- 📍 Location: The HUB Station Arts Center Lawn
145 Cedar Valley Rd, Hudson, NC - 🎟️ Admission: FREE and open to all ages
- 🪑 What to Bring: Lawn chairs, blankets, friends, and family
- 🍔 Food Trucks: Arrive and begin serving at each event
- 🍺 Craft Beer & Wine: Available during all events from 3 Drinks Down Beverage Co., the craft beer and wine bar located inside The HUB Station featuring one of the largest selections of craft beverages in Caldwell County.
2026 Third Thursday Lineup
April 16, 2026 — Gravel Road
Kicking off the 2026 season is Gravel Road, an acoustic cover band bringing your favorite hits from the 70s through today. With their laid-back style and wide range of familiar tunes, they create the perfect soundtrack for a fun and easygoing night on the lawn.
Whether you love classic rock, acoustic favorites, or singalong hits, Gravel Road delivers a relaxing evening of live music perfect for springtime in Hudson.
🎵 Live Music Style: Acoustic Covers | Classic Hits | Easy Listening
🍴 Food Truck: Mi Molcajete
May 21, 2026 — The Never B’s
May brings The Never B’s, a high-energy sister duo known for their bold vocals, driving rhythms, and engaging performances. Blending bluegrass, folk, country, and rock with a fresh modern edge, they bring a dynamic sound that’s perfect for a summer evening outdoors.
Their lively stage presence and crowd interaction make this one of the most anticipated concerts of the season.
🎵 Live Music Style: Bluegrass | Folk | Country | Rock
🍕 Food Truck: Poppy’s Pizza
New for 2026: Third Thursday Movie Nights
For the first time ever, Third Thursday is expanding beyond concerts to include family-friendly outdoor movie nights featuring beloved music-centered films.
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy a movie under the stars with sweet treats and snacks available on site.
June 18, 2026 — Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory
Step into a world of pure imagination during our outdoor showing of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. This family favorite brings music, nostalgia, and fun together for a magical summer evening.
🍦 Treat Truck: TBD
July 16, 2026 — Grease
Spend a summer night singing along to the iconic musical film Grease! Featuring unforgettable songs, classic dance numbers, and timeless fun, this outdoor movie experience is perfect for all ages.
🍨 Treat Truck: Sweet Cow
August 20, 2026 — Rustic
August welcomes Rustic, a crowd-pleasing band bringing the best of ’90s country along with Southern and alternative rock favorites. Their mix of classic hits and singalong anthems keeps the energy high all night long.
Perfect for fans of nostalgic country and Southern rock, Rustic brings a fun and upbeat concert experience to the lawn.
🎵 Live Music Style: ’90s Country | Southern Rock | Alternative Rock
🍗 Food Truck: FireTruck Catering serving Carolina-style BBQ, Southern comfort classics, and their signature wings — all made fresh and served with warm Southern hospitality.
September 17, 2026 — Jon Boy and Lefty
Wrapping up the season is Jon Boy and Lefty, a dynamic group blending blues, folk, Americana, southern rock, and classic country. Known for their soulful sound, rich storytelling, and high-energy performances, they deliver a show that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.
Their unique sound and powerful live performances make for the perfect finale to the 2026 Third Thursday season.
🎵 Live Music Style: Americana | Blues | Folk | Southern Rock | Classic Country
🍴 Food Truck: TBD
A Favorite Summer Tradition in Hudson, NC
Third Thursday Concerts and Movie Nights continue to grow as one of the most popular free summer event series in Hudson, NC. Conveniently located near Lenoir, Hickory, Granite Falls, and Morganton, these events offer the perfect way to spend a summer evening with live entertainment, local food, and community fun.
Whether you’re looking for:
- Free concerts near Hickory, NC
- Outdoor movies in Caldwell County
- Family-friendly summer events in Hudson
- Live music near Lenoir, NC
- Things to do on summer evenings in Western North Carolina
…The HUB Station Arts Center has something waiting for you.
Gather your family, invite your friends, and make plans to join us all season long for music, movies, food, drinks, and unforgettable summer nights on the lawn.
For updates and weather announcements, follow The HUB Station on social media.
