2nd & PCH hosts free concerts this summer in Long Beach

The 2nd & PCH outdoor shopping center in Long Beach is cranking up the volume on Thursday evenings with a live music concert series.

The PCH Raising Decibels Series will include party bands, local stars and tribute bands playing all genres of music at these free events through October.

The shows take place from 5-8 p.m. in the center’s Seaport Way and guests of all ages are encouraged to set up their lawn chairs and blankets. There are plenty of shops and restaurants in the area to grab a quick bite or drink and the space includes a dance floor and there’s free face painting and airbrush tattoos for kids.

The series launched last week with The Hodads, a cover band that plays hits from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s, but there’s still plenty of all of the other shows. 2nd & PCH is located at 6400 E. Pacific Coast Highway in Long Beach. More details on the shows, parking and local businesses can be found at 2ndandpch.com.

Here are the acts coming to the PCH Raising Decibels Series.

July 20: New Doubt

This dedicated cover act is as close to a real No Doubt performance as you can get. The group will play some of the Orange County ska-rock band’s biggest hits as well as cover songs from other bands including Sublime and Radiohead.

July 27: Tomorrows Bad Seeds 

Hermosa Beach’s reggae rock stars are regulars at big-name events like the Cali Vibes Festival, so this is your chance to see them in a more intimate setting.

Aug. 3: Blue Breeze Band

Get your dancing shoes on and bust your best moves to this R&B, soul, funk, jazz and blues band that covers the best of Motown.

Aug. 10: Rod the Mod

If you think Rod Stewart is sexy, then come check out the next best thing up close with the Rod Stewart tribute band playing all of Stewart’s hits.

Oct. 5: Start Me Up!

Start your October right with The Rolling Stones and rock out alongside this tribute band playing some of the greatest songs ever written.

Oct. 12: Kenny Metcalf as Elton The Early Years 

Though the real Elton John has retired from touring,  you can still experience a young Elton John, his early hits and his dazzling outfits at this show.

Oct. 26: Bruno and the Hooligans 

The series is going to end with one heck of a dance party thanks to these musical hooligans who will recreate the Bruno Mars concert experience.