CUMBERLAND — An estimated 750 people gathered at the Canal Place Festival Grounds on Thursday for the Levitt AMP Cumberland Music Series performance by Nashville indie-rock band The Foxies, setting a new attendance record for the series since its launch in 2023, according to series organizers.
The record-breaking crowd transformed downtown Cumberland into a vibrant community gathering place filled with live free music, interactive arts activities, local food and beverage vendors, community outreach opportunities and programming centered on the week’s First Responder Night theme.
The milestone reflects the continued growth of the Levitt AMP Cumberland Music Series and its impact as a destination for arts, culture and community engagement in Western Maryland.
“This was more than a great concert — it was a celebration of community,” said Melanie Moore, director of Frostburg State University’s Cultural Events Series, which presents the series in partnership with the Allegany Arts Council, Loft 129, Allegany County Tourism — The Mountain Side of Maryland and the Canal Place Preservation and Development Authority. “To welcome the largest audience in the history of the Levitt AMP Cumberland Music Series demonstrates how strongly our community has embraced this opportunity to come together through music, the arts and shared experiences.”
“The turnout for The Foxies was remarkable and speaks to how much the community has embraced the Levitt AMP Cumberland Music Series,” Cumberland Mayor Ray Morriss said. “It was especially rewarding to see families enjoying the concert, meeting local first responders and spending time together in downtown Cumberland. This series demonstrates what can happen when community partners work together to create welcoming public spaces, support local businesses and bring people together through the arts.”
As part of First Responder Night, attendees met representatives from the Cumberland police and fire departments, recognizing their service and contributions to the region. The event also featured informational and outreach tables hosted by Allegany County Tourism and Savage Mountain Punk Arts, giving attendees opportunities to connect with local organizations and learn more about regional resources and upcoming events.
Beyond the music, the Allegany Arts Council provided creative experiences for attendees of all ages through its Kids Zone and interactive community activities. Children’s activities included an activity wall, face painting and a first responder-themed crêpe paper craft.
Concertgoers also contributed to a collaborative paint-by-numbers mural, working to create a work of art that reflects the spirit of connection and participation that defines the series.
“It was wonderful to see so many families taking advantage of the Kids Zone throughout the evening,” said Bethany Thomas, executive director of the Allegany Arts Council. “The excitement and creativity on display — from face painting and crafts to our collaborative mural project — showed how much people value opportunities to create, connect and participate together. Seeing children and adults engaged in the arts alongside a record-breaking crowd made the evening especially meaningful.”
Attendees enjoyed food and beverage offerings from Café 832, Open Kitchen International Street Food, In Between Café and 1812 Brewery.
With several concerts remaining in the 2026 season, organizers encourage community members to bring a blanket or chair, invite friends and experience this vibrant summer tradition in the heart of Cumberland.
The Levitt AMP Cumberland Music Series takes place each Thursday at 7 p.m. through Aug. 27 at the Canal Place Festival Grounds in downtown Cumberland thanks to a grant from the Levitt Family Foundation.
It is supported by funding from Allegany County, the City of Cumberland, Frostburg State University and the Cumberland Arts & Entertainment District, along with support from sponsors, including Fairfield by Marriot, Cumberland; Faith, Hope, & Images; Thomas Cumberland Subaru Hyundai; Western Maryland Scenic Railroad; and Sandra Saville.
For more information, visit ces.frostburg.edu.