Celebrating the Military Community with the Gift of Music

By: Allison K Stevens | May 1, 2026

Veterans Meredith V. and Vernon B. came to the beach last month for a little lightness before next month’s nuptials. “We’re on an extended date night,” the engaged couple said as the waves lapped in the distance and the sun set over the horizon. 

That’s what a night of live music can be—especially when it’s free. 

Not everyone can justify concert tickets when gas prices are up, budgets are stretched or, in Meredith and Vernon’s case, a wedding is on the horizon. But at Navy Federal Jams, complimentary tickets for active military personnel and Veterans open the door to a night of music without forcing folks to open their wallets, too.

“Events like this show ... that people can have a good time without having to add an expense,” Meredith said as country music artist Redferrin took the stage at a community park a few miles away from the world’s largest naval installation. “It means a lot.”

Redferrin, who serenaded some 1,000 guests at King Neptune’s Park in Virginia Beach on a crisp April evening, echoed the sentiment. 

“It means a lot to get the chance to share my music and play for the local crowd at Navy Federal Jams, especially all the military members and their families,” he said. “I’m excited to bring everyone together for a fun night and looking forward to making some memories with you all.”

Live music to local communities

Redferrin's was the first in a series of eight Navy Federal Jams concerts by Navy Federal Credit Union designed to bring live music to military-connected communities this spring, and especially during Military Appreciation Month.

Next up is global superstar Kane Brown, a multi-platinum artist and award-winning singer-songwriter (aka the “future of country music"). Brown is performing on May 8 in Charleston, South Carolina and on May 31 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, both near several military-connected stations.

The events are open to the public, and Active Duty Servicemembers and Veterans can secure complimentary tickets (a value of $75 plus fees per person), making an event that would cost families hundreds of dollars accessible to those across income levels. Also part of the series are additional free concerts open to the public on:

1. May 9 in San Antonio, Texas, featuring Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors
2. May 23 in Tampa, Florida, featuring Kashus Culpepper
3. June 6 in Jacksonville, Florida, featuring Walker Montgomery
4. June 13 near Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, featuring Hannah McFarland
5. June 20 in Tacoma, Washington, featuring Restless Road

“Music has a unique way of bringing people together,” said Joe Bock, vice president of brand strategy at Navy Federal. “These concerts are meant to create fun, shared experiences that celebrate community and show gratitude for service.”

A family-friendly experience

Indeed, people of all ages and backgrounds attended the Virginia Beach Jam: Veterans like Meredith and Vernon, Active Duty Servicemembers, kids and babies. Attendees were treated to booths featuring free face painting, balloon art and photo magnets, while the USO—a Navy Federal partner—handed out free glow toys while sharing opportunities for kids and adults to strengthen their financial literacy.

“It’s awesome,” said Emma O., a Navy Federal member. “It’s a free event, and it’s at a park, too, so our kid can get out and run around. We’re excited to get out as a family.” Veteran Jon P., a Navy Federal member and self-described “girl dad,” echoed the sentiment. “There aren’t a lot of family-friendly concerts in close proximity,” he said. “It's a cool event for me, my wife and my girls to have a good time.”

Josslyn O, meanwhile, appreciated the simple relief that comes from not having to budget for admission. “When it’s free, it makes it really accessible for us. We’re able to just show up and have a good time and not have to worry about the money. We can focus on getting food instead of the tickets, and it’s bringing the community together.”

Music that meets the moment

For military families facing frequent moves and far-away loved ones, it can take real effort to entertain the kids. This event made that easy, said Josée C., an Active Duty sailor and Navy Federal member. “We’re always looking for something to do,” he said. “Moving around so much, you don’t have a lot of friends, you don’t have family around. So, it’s important to us that we keep [the kids] busy so that they don’t feel the absence of family so far away.” The concerts are an “awesome” way to do that, he said. 

Even visitors felt the pull of the event. Wendy D., in town from Connecticut, noticed the good vibes from her nearby hotel balcony and invited her grandson to take in the music on the sunny spring evening. “I said, ‘Oh, my God, that looks so fun! Let’s go out! You might as well be outside!’”

Veterans dish up dinner

The celebration goes beyond the stage. In Charleston and Colorado Springs, Navy Federal Jams will feature Mission Marketplace featuring goods and wares sold by Veteran business owners. At the Virginia Beach Jam, Veteran-owned food trucks ringed the park, offering soul-inspired comfort food, tacos and ice cream.

“I was definitely stoked that Navy Federal is getting out in the community,” said Chef Shawn W. (aka Chef Wimbo), a Navy Veteran and a Navy Federal member who owns Cups Up Food Truck. “You can’t go wrong with a free concert and outstanding food.” Marine Corps Veteran Marisa B., a longtime Navy Federal member who owns Marine Canteen, added: “It’s special to be here tonight and serve this crowd.” 

Get your tickets to a Navy Federal Jams concert near you at http://www.navyfederaljams.com.