A bandstand is an outdoor platform or small building, usually found in a park or town square, where musical groups perform for the public. Picture a raised wooden stage with a roof over it but open sides, designed so a band can play while people sit on the grass or benches nearby to listen.

Bandstands became popular in America and Europe during the 1800s and early 1900s, when towns would hire bands to give free concerts on summer evenings. Families would gather to hear marching bands, orchestras, or jazz groups play popular music of the day. The roof protected the musicians and their instruments from sun and light rain, while the open design let the music carry across the park.

Many old bandstands still stand in town squares today, though some are now used for festivals, speeches, or community events rather than regular concerts. The word captures a time when live music in public spaces was one of the main forms of entertainment, before recordings and streaming made music available almost anywhere.