This summer marks a significant transition for the Grateful Dead’s legacy. It is the first summer in years without a central figure or event to rally around. Although the band played their last show in 1995, their influence endures through new generations of musicians and fans.

Transition for Deadheads

This year poses a unique challenge for the Deadhead community. With no clear center of the band’s universe, fans are contemplating the next steps. Earlier this year, NPR Music’s Isabella Gomez Sarmiento and Felix Contreras embarked on a journey to explore this very question.

‘Days Between’ Celebrations

During the ‘Days Between’—from Jerry Garcia’s birthday on August 1 to the anniversary of his death on August 9—NPR will share stories, interviews, and podcasts. These pieces will explore what continues to attract people to the Grateful Dead and how fans and artists plan to preserve the band’s legacy.

The path forward for Deadheads may lack a singular focus now, but the spirit of the Grateful Dead continues to inspire. Fans will likely find new ways to honor the band’s music and ethos, ensuring that their long, strange trip continues.