Forest Hills Stadium’s 2025 summer concert season is officially back on after city officials confirmed a tentative agreement with the NYPD, ensuring performances will move forward — but under strict conditions. The news comes after tensions between the venue and nearby residents threatened to derail this year’s lineup of nearly 20 shows.
City Hall announced Monday that a resolution was reached allowing the outdoor concert series to proceed, contingent on the venue meeting specific terms around noise control and security. The stadium, located on the grounds of the West Side Tennis Club in Queens, had faced opposition from Forest Hills Gardens Corporation (FHGC) and other neighbors, who raised concerns about crowd size, safety, and quality of life.
According to officials, the NYPD granted “conditional approval” for the first concert on May 31, thanks to an alternative plan submitted by event organizers, Tiebreaker Productions. The plan includes deploying private security to manage access to surrounding private roads, using barricades and blocker cars to shut them down hours before and after shows.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards welcomed the compromise and praised the stadium’s cultural contribution to the borough.
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“Forest Hills Stadium is a gem for Queens, drawing music lovers from all over the world,” Richards said in a statement. “We’re proud to have found a path forward that balances public enjoyment with community concerns.”
Richards had previously criticized resistance to the concerts, suggesting it was motivated by more than just noise complaints. He alleged last month that some opponents were uncomfortable with the diversity of the concert crowds.
The sound permit, which had been in jeopardy due to the FHGC’s initial refusal to allow NYPD access to private streets, now remains in place under the condition that volume levels stay within city code. If noise limits are exceeded or security plans aren’t followed, the permit can be revoked at any time.
The stadium celebrated the city’s decision in a statement released Monday evening:
“We’re thrilled to confirm that Forest Hills Stadium’s 2025 season will proceed as planned. We’re grateful for the continued support of our community and local leaders who help us present top-tier performances at this iconic venue.”
This year’s lineup features artists such as Phish, the Black Keys, and Mumford and Sons, with concerts scheduled from late May through October.
While the FHGC did not publicly comment on the latest development, a letter sent to residents last week said it was actively engaged in mediation with the stadium. The letter emphasized concerns over traffic, sanitation, and safety — issues residents feel still need concrete solutions.
One neighbor told The Post she’s not completely opposed to the concerts, but said there must be more oversight.
“I’m not saying stop the shows, but it needs to be more organized,” said the resident, who asked to remain anonymous. “It’s overwhelming now — way more chaotic than it used to be.”
For now, the music will play on in Forest Hills — but under watchful eyes and with the understanding that any misstep could bring the curtain down.
