They say the heart of rock and roll is still beating (or at least Huey Lewis does). Here in Fargo-Moorhead, the heart of the local music scene beats loud and proud and there's no shortage of places to hear it for yourself. Let us break it down by what you’re looking for.
Local, original music
In the mood for something you haven't heard before? From punk rock and metal to bluegrass and electronic, the musicians of Fargo-Moorhead make a lot of noise (and we mean that in the best possible way). Here are a few recommendations for those of you looking to hear original music.
The Aquarium
The Aquarium (upstairs from Dempsey's) is one of the most loved music venues in the area. After opening in 2006, it quickly became a second home to local musicians and music lovers, as well as a huge supporter of the scene itself. Its popularity among locals, as well as the intimacy and sound of the unique space, has drawn amazing musicians/touring bands from all over.
Check out upcoming shows on the Aquarium Facebook page.
226 N Broadway Dr f2, Fargo | (701) 235-5913
Sidestreet Grille & Pub
Yet another staple of Downtown Fargo. Sidestreet's new(ish) location opened in 2015 and has been rockin' ever since. The venue has a huge open space with walls of windows and a stage that greets you right when you walk in. If you're in town over the weekend, chances are there will be music to check out at Sidestreet.
404 4th Ave N, Fargo | (701) 271-0092
TAK Music Venue
The newest addition to the music scene, TAK has quickly become a place to play for bands of all variety, and you don't have to be 21+ to enjoy it! A nice combination of originals and classic covers depending on the night.
1710 Center Ave W, Dilworth | (701) 261-2525
Sit back and soak it in
Looking to be serenaded while enjoying a good meal or a tasty cocktail or craft beer? Sounds like a pretty darn good time to us! Here are a few places to do just that.
Dempsey's Public House - Monday night jazz
Fargo's most popular Irish themed bar gets a little jazzy on Monday nights. If you're in town, stop in, grab a booth and a drink of your choice, and enjoy some jazz played by some of the area's best jazz musicians. Not able to make it on a Monday? That's okay! Chances are if it's Friday or Saturday, there will be music playing. Plus, the Aquarium is right upstairs!
226 Broadway N, Fargo | (701) 235-5913
Urban 42
Enjoy a fantastic meal with a side of jazz every Thursday at Urban 42 located in the Delta by Marriott. This establishment is a strong believer in keeping things local. Ingredients are sourced from local growers, and the jazz from extremely accomplished local musicians.
1635 42nd St S, Fargo | (701) 281-7105
Front Street Taproom
Sample craft brews from around the region while checking out Fargo-Moorhead's talented singer-songwriters at Front Street Taproom. How could that possibly be anything but a good time?
614 Main Ave, Fargo | (701) 566-7226
Fargo-Moorhead breweries
Craft beverages and music go together like peanut butter and jelly. Stop in at any one of F-M's seven breweries and sample the brews of the great plains while listening to the area's talented musicians.
Dance the night away
Sometimes listening just isn't enough. If you want to dance the night away to some live music, here are a few must-stops.
The VFW in West Fargo
There's always a good time to be had at the West Fargo VFW. Line dancing to classic country or doing your own thing to pop favorites, this is a venue worth checking out for live music and some fun.
444 Sheyenne St, West Fargo | (701) 282-4728
The Downtown VFW
Like its West Fargo cousin, the Downtown VFW has a dance floor and plenty of great bands lined up to dance to. You'll find an diverse crowd, stiff drinks, and a fun time at this underrated bar.
202 Broadway N, Fargo | (701) 235-8243
The Windbreak
Known for their killer drinks specials and rockin' bands, the Windbreak is a place where you can burn some serious calories on the dance floor.
3150 39th St S, Fargo | (701) 282-5507
TAK Music Venue
Mentioned for its original, live bands already, TAK also has a huge dance floor where you can boogie to whatever music's playing that night, and you don't have to be 21+ to enjoy it!
1710 Center Ave W, Dilworth | (701) 261-2525
Dempsey's Public House
Yes, Dempsey's has already been listed as a good place for Monday jazz nights. But, visit this venue on a weekend and prepare yourself for a much different, incredibly lively vibe.
226 Broadway N, Fargo | (701) 235-5913
Beautiful venues, big bands
Sanctuary Events Center
Big name touring bands, local originals, and tributes to the greatest musicians in rock 'n roll history... just a few examples of what to expect from the Sanctuary. Add in the acoustics of a 100+ year old completely renovated church? Yes please!
670 4th Ave N, Fargo | (701) 404-9006
Bluestem Amphitheater
A spring/summer/fall favorite. The Bluestem Summer Concert Series brings bands such as the Avett Brothers, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, and Steve Martin and Martin Short (not music, but still awesome). The beautiful outdoor venue is right off the Red River. Nothing like nature and music to soothe the soul.
801 50th Ave S, Moorhead, MN | (701) 298-0071
Fargo Theatre
If you've seen one image of Fargo, it's probably the iconic Marquee in glowing lights outside the historic Fargo Theatre. Hosting a wide variety of popular touring artists, comedians, ballets, and regular movie showings, this is a must-go when it comes to concerts in the area.
4715, 314 Broadway N | (701) 239-8385
The FARGODOME
When the heavy hitters come to town, chances are they'll be performing at The FARGODOME. Elton John, Pink, Maroon 5, Justin Timberlake... you know, the stars that require a pretty impressive capacity. Great venue, unforgettable performances.
1800 N University Dr | (701) 241-9100
No matter when you're visiting, chances are there will be music in the air. Check out our calendar of events to see what's going on and where to find it.
