Summer is the perfect time to catch live music. Not only do major national and international acts tour during the season, but local bands are given a chance to strut their stuff at outdoor concerts and festivals.

While Baltimore County has some great venues and bars with live music, such as the Recher Theatre in Towson and Hightopps Backstage Grill in Lutherville-Timonium, the summer brings a variety of outdoor concerts and festivals that you can only find this time of year.

Hot August Blues
Who: Gov’t Mule, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Cris Jacobs Band and more
Where: Oregon Ridge Park in Cockeysville
When: Saturday, Aug. 18
Why Go: More than 10 hours of music from local talents and national acts
Cost: $49 in advance, $60 at the gate, $9 for parking
For more information: Hot August Blues website

Outdoor Concerts in Catonsville
Who: Local jazz bands, musicians under age 16 and more
Where: Frederick Road, Lurman Woodland Theatre, Bill’s Music and more
When: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, depending on the venue
Why Go: A variety of venues and styles of music
Cost: Free-$20
For more information: Read Catonsville Patch’s Roundup

Groovin’ in the Grass
Who: Freedom Enterprise, Smooth Kentucky, Psycho Killers and more
Where: Ladew Topiary Gardens in Monkton
When: Sundays through Aug. 12
Why Go: Rising stars in the regional music scene play while you enjoy 22 acres of gardens
Cost: $15, $7 for members, $13 for students and seniors, $3 for children ages 2-12
For more information: Visit Ladew Gardens website

Free Concerts at Stevenson University
Who: Greenspring Valley Orchestra, Quadrophonic Brass and Stevenson faculty
Where: Stevenson University, Greenspring Campus
When: Various dates in June and July
Why Go: Hear European folk music, French music and symphonic brass
Cost: Free
For more information: Visit Stevenson’s website

Hunt Valley Friday Night Concerts
Who: Cris Jacobs Band, Sons of Pirates, Gary and the Groove and more
Where: Hunt Valley Towne Center
When: Friday through Aug. 31, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Why Go: Free outdoor concerts in a family atmosphere with plenty of dining and shopping options around
Cost: Free
For more information: Visit Greetings & Readings’ website

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This article originally appeared on Owings Mills - Reisterstown Patch.