South Carolina's warm summer nights are made for picnics and outdoor concerts. There are several places around the state that offer summer concerts -- the perfect opportunity to hear a variety of music and let the kids enjoy a romp under the stars.

Downtown Columbia's Finlay Park is the home to Saturday night summer concert series, offering all sorts of bands performing weekly in the capital city's largest park.

The Natty Vibzs Bandj will play reggae on June 30, and Elliott and the Untouchables brings the blues to the park on July 21. Music fills the park every Saturday night through Aug. 18. The concerts run from 7-10 p.m., but get there early and spread your blanket and lawn chairs. You’re welcome to bring a picnic (but no glass containers), and food and drink vendors are also available.

Furman University in Greenville hosts a popular Music by the Lake Summer Concert Series.

The free concerts start at 7:30 p.m. each Thursday night throughout the summer in the university's amphitheater by the lake. The series, which is directed by Furman music professor Les Hicken, offers the chance to hear a variety of music, including big band, jazz, international, contemporary, marches and orchestral favorites.

Charleston's James Island County Park is the home of the 2012 Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series, featuring traditional and updated reggae.

Gates open at 8 p.m. on June 30, July 21 and Aug. 18. Tickets are $8; free for those 12 and younger. Bring chairs and a blanket to the picturesque 643-acre park, which also features grassy open meadows, saltwater fishing and crabbing, a spray play fountain area, picnic spots, volleyball courts and miles of paved trails.