UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Bryce Jordan Center will host the kickoff event for the Commonwealth Concert Series, a statewide initiative tied to the "America250PA" celebration of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, with a free concert on Saturday, May 23.
The event will feature multi-platinum country artist Cole Swindell, who will return to the Jordan Center for his third appearance, joined by special guest and Pennsylvania native Gabby Barrett. The concert marks the first stop in a five-city series designed to highlight Pennsylvania’s history and cultural identity while bringing communities together through live music.
The State College performance, themed “A Salute to Service and Sacrifice,” is intended to honor the region’s traditions while offering a shared community experience.
Swindell previously performed at the Jordan Center in 2019 alongside Jason Aldean and in 2023 with Thomas Rhett. Known for a string of chart-topping hits including “Chillin’ It,” “You Should Be Here,” and “She Had Me at Heads Carolina,” he now returns as a headlining act for the statewide celebration.
Barrett, a Pennsylvania native and one of country music’s fastest-rising artists, will join Swindell for the performance. With more than 3.7 billion global streams, she is known for hits such as “I Hope” and “The Good Ones.”
“These concerts are about more than music — they’re about celebrating Pennsylvania’s role at the heart of the American story,” said Al Karosas, general manager of the Bryce Jordan Center. “We’re proud to kick off this historic series right here in Happy Valley and welcome fans for an incredible, free experience.”
The Commonwealth Concert Series will take place each Saturday from Memorial Day weekend through the end of June, bringing free performances by major artists to communities across Pennsylvania.
Although the May 23 concert is free, tickets are required for entry. Tickets will be available to the general public beginning at noon on April 17 via Ticketmaster and will be limited to Pennsylvania residents through May 1. Each order is limited to four tickets, and minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Additional information and updates are available at america250pa.org/Concert_Series.