September Sunset Series

Three Fridays. Live music. Riverfront sunsets. Free admission.

This September, come down to the riverfront for a new pop-up concert series presented by the Alton Amphitheater Commission and made possible by our 2026 sponsors, Republic Services, Coleman’s Country Campers, The Grandpa Gang, Big Z Media, Liberty Bank, and OSF Healthcare, along with partners at Alton Parks and Recreation.

The series takes place on Friday, September 4, September 11, and September 25 from 6-9 p.m., with different regional musicians featured each week. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, spread out on the amphitheater lawn, enjoy food from local vendors, your favorite drinks from the amphitheater beverage station, and take in stunning autumn sunsets over the Mississippi River.

September 4 | Matt "The Rattlesnake" Lesch | Blues

We’re kicking things off with Matt "The Rattlesnake" Lesch, an award-winning St. Louis blues musician known for his powerful guitar playing and fresh take on the blues. A 2025 Sean Costello Rising Star Award winner from Blues Blast Magazine, Lesch has taken his music to stages and festivals across the country, including the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise, North Atlantic Blues Festival, and Ground Zero Blues Club. He’s also shared the stage with blues legends and rising stars, including Buddy Guy, Bobby Rush, and Christone "Kingfish" Ingram. Matt's raw, intricate guitar playing and soulful voice capture the attention of audience members anywhere he performs and will leave you wanting to hear more of "The Rattlesnake."

September 11 | Aragon | Rock

Aragon brings the next generation of rock to the Alton riverfront. Made up of musicians ages 16-17, this four-piece band from the St. Louis area is known for shredding classic rock favorites from the 1970s through the mid-2000s with fresh energy and impressive musicianship. They've lit up local stages with powerful covers, thunderous rhythms, and soul-on-stage intensity, delivering high-energy performances that connect with audiences of all ages.

KSHE 95 calls them "the future of rock n roll." A talented, high-energy teen rock band that performs a mix of classic rock and alt metal covers. They have quickly become one of the most sought-after cover bands in the Saint Louis region. They are a great fit for an audience of all ages.

September 25 | Borderline | Country

Borderline is one of the premier country bands in the St. Louis metropolitan area, and if you’ve seen them live, you know exactly why. With more than two decades of performing throughout the region, this talented group brings an energetic live show packed with country favorites, rock hits, and songs you can’t help but sing along to. Their band members are from communities across the metro area and are well known for delivering an outstanding live country music experience.

Food, Drinks & Relaxed Fun

Food

• September 4: Rolling Dogs
• September 11: Rolling Dogs & Jewel Ice Cream
• September 25: Pig on a Wing & Jewel Ice Cream

Beverages

Beer, Carbliss, and other alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase on-site.

What to Bring

• Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are welcome at the September Sunset Series. Please note that outside food and beverages are prohibited at all other Alton Amphitheater events. The September Sunset Series is an opportunity for us to try something different for the Alton community and our visitors. For the safety and enjoyment of all guests, law enforcement personnel will be present on-site throughout each event.
• Cash or card for food, beverages, and items from local business Coco + Oak.
• Leashed dogs: Please bring your own water bowl and cleanup bags/items.
• A lawn chair or blanket to make yourself comfortable.
• Your own yard games, balls, frisbees, and more:  Feel free to bring them and enjoy the lawn while being respectful of other guests sharing the public space.
• Your favorite people!

Please note there will be no September Sunset Series event on Friday, September 18, as Alton Main Street, the Sierra Club, and Jacoby Arts Center prepare to host the Mississippi Earthtones Festival on Saturday, September 19, at the amphitheater.

Event Information

September Sunset Series
Fridays, September 4, 11 & 25, 2026
6:00-9:00 p.m.
Alton Amphitheater
Riverfront Drive, Alton, Illinois

Come amp it up with us and discover your new favorite place to unplug. Whether you're discovering a new artist, enjoying dinner with family, or simply soaking in the view, the September Sunset Series offers a chance to experience the riverfront at one of the most beautiful times of the year. See you there!