23 Jan 2024

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Take your pick from four themed concerts or attend them all – Summer Sundays is serving up weekly live music from 28 January until 18 February.

The popular concert series in the Botanic Gardens begins this Sunday, with the free gigs running from 2–4pm at the charming, tree-lined Archery Lawn.

Produced by Christchurch City Council, Summer Sundays stars a wide variety of local music makers, with acts grouped according to music genre or theme.

Manager of Events and Arts Lucy Blackmore says that the theme for this Sunday’s concert on 28 January is ‘Around the World’, with musical influences hailing from faraway lands.

“First up to perform is award-winning Icelandic-Kiwi singer/songwriter Hera, followed by the energetic and musically multicultural band Mundi,” she says.

Next is ‘Got the Blues’ on 4 February, featuring the Penny Blues Band and Mudfish – both bands made up of seasoned musicians, who’ve spent many years performing on the Ōtautahi music circuit.

With three talented acts lined up for ‘Emerging Indie’ – modern rockers Con Carne, indie-rockers Spirit Boy and headliner act Mim Jensen – Sunday 11 February promises to be a big show.

“Mim Jensen and her band are making waves across Aotearoa and beyond with their unique indie-rock sound, catchy hooks and captivating performance style,” Ms Blackmore says.

Ever a favourite, ‘Jazz on the Lawn’ on 18 February wraps up the series. Offering rock and pop songs reimagined into jazz is The Curio Club, and with original jazz compositions inspired by hip-hop and neo-soul are Chicks from Corea.

“We’re thrilled with the range of incredible artists,” Ms Blackmore says. “It’s going to be another great season of Summer Sundays. Come with your picnics, rugs or camping chairs and your favourite people.”

Entry to Summer Sundays is free. Coffee and ice cream will be available to purchase.

The botanic gardens’ Archery Lawn is located near Canterbury Museum, just beyond the Peacock Fountain.

Free 180-minute car parking is accessible from Armagh Street, which includes five mobility spaces and bike racks. Check out this map for more mobility parking options or use our interactive map to easily find other central city parking.

Also on the Council’s summer events programme, Anthony Harper Summer Theatre is heading into its final weekend. Catch the show at 6.30pm any evening until Sunday 28 January, when there is also a 2.30pm matinee.