Modesto singer will play first concert at revamped venue in Merced
A popular singer from Modesto will headline the city of Merced’s first free downtown concert next month.
Zoey Rae will perform at the grand opening of Bob Hart Square on Thursday, April 16.
Bob Hart Square underwent construction in 2025. The stage is near 16th Street where Canal Street Drive was previously located. According to previous Sun-Star reporting, the roughly $3.5 million Bob Hart Square project includes updates to the square, such as an extended plaza, additional seating areas, the installation of trees and a stage.
The show will be part of Merced’s Free Concert Series.
“Bring your friends and family to celebrate this beautiful new community space,” the city said in a Facebook post. “It is a perfect place for gathering, enjoying music, and supporting our local downtown businesses.”
The concert, scheduled for 7:30 p.m., is free and family-friendly.
According to her bio on csmusic.net, Rae is an established actress/singer/musician and lead vocalist performing with her band, which won the 2023 Modesto Area Music Award for Blue Collar/Rock band.
At 13, she won the 2021 MAMA Award for Best Unplugged Singer, her bio says.
This story was originally published March 26, 2026 at 11:06 AM.
