the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, one of Ridgewood’s most beloved summer traditions returns as the 2025 Kasschau Memorial Shell Summer Concert Series kicks off on Thursday, June 5 with performances by talented students from Ridgewood High School (RHS). The series offers free live music every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Kasschau Memorial Shell, located in Veterans Memorial Field.
The season will run through Thursday, August 7, featuring a variety of musical acts—from soloists to full bands—bringing the Ridgewood community together for unforgettable summer nights under the stars.
📍 A Local Landmark with a Rich Musical History
The Kasschau Memorial Shell, built in 1958, is more than just a concert venue—it’s a symbol of Ridgewood’s commitment to the arts. Dedicated to Frank and Howard Kasschau, two pivotal figures in the village’s musical legacy, the Shell was gifted to the town by the Ridgewood Choral through community fundraising efforts and benefit concerts.
Frank Kasschau, the long-time leader of the Orpheus Club (Ridgewood’s oldest musical organization founded in 1909), was succeeded by his son Howard in 1943. Together, their dedication to music and community inspired the memorial’s creation and continue to resonate through every performance at the Shell.
🎭 A Stage for All Genres
Over the years, the Shell has hosted an eclectic range of performances, including:
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Ballet and opera
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Bluegrass and banjo bands
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Ethnic and cultural music groups
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Musical theater by the Ridgewood Gilbert & Sullivan Company
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And of course, the annual Pop Concerts that once drew over 2,500 attendees
With one of the largest and most acoustically advanced outdoor stages in Northern New Jersey, the Kasschau Shell remains a regional gem for live music and community culture.
🛠️ Maintained with Care
The Shell is maintained by Ridgewood’s Traffic & Signal Division and guided by a committee appointed by the village mayor. Their work ensures that the Shell’s electrical and sound systems are ready for each season, preserving the facility’s exceptional performance quality year after year.
🎼 Keeping the Kasschau Legacy Alive
Though Frank Kasschau passed in 1944 and Howard in 1994, their legacy thrives in the community they helped cultivate. Each summer concert at the Kasschau Shell keeps their spirit alive, showcasing Ridgewood’s ongoing love for live music, the arts, and togetherness.
Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, the Kasschau Memorial Shell Summer Concert Series offers a perfect way to enjoy free entertainment and experience the vibrant Ridgewood community spirit.
📅 2025 Concert Series Details
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When: Every Tuesday & Thursday, June 5 – August 7
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Time: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
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Where: Kasschau Memorial Shell, Veterans Memorial Field, Ridgewood, NJ
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Admission: FREE
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Opening Night: Performances by Ridgewood High School bands
📞 For More Information
Call 201-493-9911 or follow the Ridgewood Guild for updates on performances, rain dates, and special events.
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