Spotted: The Coolest Secret Concert Date Night Idea in NYC

So Coachella wasn't in the budget this year. Don't sweat it. That's all the more reason to hit up NYC's coolest, under-the-radar scene (beyond its rooftop bars): Sofar Sounds secret concerts. In case you haven't had the pleasure of attending one yet, it's a global music community that connects artists to music lovers through intimate live performances in snazzy locations. The best part is tickets range from $24 to $29, so it's not only the hottest date night idea in New York City this summer but also super affordable. So take that, Coachella.

It's our latest TikTok discovery, which has gained more than 55 million views and counting, and it was this reel, in particular, that sold us. Essentially, you pick a show near you (to note, you won't know the location or the artist at this time), then a day before the show, you'll get an email with the address it will take place and other essential details (like who's performing). And feel free to bring your own bottle.

Oh, and while Sofar Sounds secret concerts are poppin' in NYC and New Jersey, you can attend them in more than 400 cities worldwide if you're not local or are traveling. (Feel feel to read up on Sofar Sounds' background here.)

Regarding the artists you can expect to see, past performers weren't household names at the time—ahem, Billie Eilish, Ed Sheeran, Charli XCX and Yebba, just to name a few—so there's the brag-worthy bonus of discovering an artist before they get famous.

As far as locations, they're a secret until the day before the show, but they're said to be anywhere from museums and boutiques to rooftops and private homes.

PureWow's Executive Editor, Dara Katz, highly recommends buying tickets ASAP: "There are so many indie artists and shows in NYC that sometimes it can feel overwhelming—like where do I even begin? The first Sofar Sounds secret concert I went to was (A.) super fun, but also (B.) a great introduction to a handful of artists in the area."

There are also little breaks in between the sets, so you can chat with your date, Joel Calfee, PureWow's Assistant News and Entertainment Editor, says, adding that "it's the perfect mix in case you’re still getting to know them or [if] you’ve been together for a while."

Better secure your tickets to the next gig before it sells out.

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