Grooves in the Grove

The Wharf's Grooves series is the kind of summer programming that earns its place on the calendar without requiring much planning. The free outdoor concerts bring live music to the waterfront, with a rotating lineup that makes each night a little different. The setting does some of the work, but the appeal is less about treating the Wharf like a destination and more about having a solid reason to linger there after work or make an evening of it with friends. Grab a drink, find a spot near the water and let the music carry the night. Because the series is free, it is also an easy option when you want live music without committing to a ticketed show. Check the lineup before heading down, since the appeal here depends heavily on who's playing.