With Memorial Day behind us, we’re moving into high gear of summertime fun. There’s lots to be had in the High Sierra like fishing, mountain biking and hiking in the great outdoors. The question is how do you celebrate a day well played? For us, there’s nothing better than hearing live music while sipping a cold beverage. Fortunately, the Sierra Nevada range is home to many High Sierra Summer Music Festivals happening all season long.
Concerts in the Pines
Twain Harte, California
To see the most up to date schedule & learn more
When: Every Saturday from June 17th through September 2nd
Every Saturday night during the summer months, Twain Harte hosts the Concert in the Pines. A different regional live band is featured each week on the Rotary Stage at Eproson Park. The park itself is situated amongst towering pine trees and boasts some warm fresh mountain air. Hence where the name of the series comes from. Concerts start at 6pm and usually go till around 8pm, sometimes later. These concerts are free to the public but you may want to arrive early to secure a spot as the lawn area will quickly fill up with blankets and low-back chairs. Alcohol is allowed within the park.
Music In The Park
Truckee, California
To see the most up to date schedule and information
When: Every Wednesday June 21st – August 30th
On Wednesdays, grab a seat or spot on the lawn in the Truckee River Regional Park as bands play at the “Salty” Gebhardt Pavilion while the sun sets around you. The genres on Wednesday nights cover the full spectrum from bluegrass and country to 80s/90s/00s classics. To ensure everyone has a good, time dogs and smoking are not allowed.
Music On The Beach
Kings Beach, California
To see the most up to date schedule and information
When: Every Friday June 16th – September 1st (Excluding August 11th)
Spending the day on the beach in Lake Tahoe? North Tahoe Business Association hosts its 17th annual free Music on the Beach series yet again this summer on Fridays. From 6 to 8:30 pm, dance the evening away with one of the best backdrops in the world – Lake Tahoe! And if you’re thirsty or hungry, beer and food is available for purchase.
Bass Lake Live
Bass Lake, California
To see the most up to date schedule & learn more
When: Various Thursdays from May 26th through September 2nd
The 2023 Summer Concert Series (formerly known as Jazz on the Lake) is returning yet again to the Pines Resort’s Gazebo Deck and Lawn overlooking Bass Lake. Guests will enjoy breathtaking views of beautiful Bass Lake from the deck at The Pines, along with the opportunity to partake in a BBQ buffet, drink specials and games — all while listening to top-notch live bands perform in a variety of musical genres.
Music on the Green
Mariposa, California
To see the most up to date schedule & learn more
When: Every Friday & Saturday from June 2nd through August 26th
Every Friday and Saturday evening during the summer, the Mariposa County Arts Council hosts the Music on the Green Summer Concert Series in downtown Mariposa’s outdoor Art Park. These free concerts begin at 7pm and feature folk, bluegrass, rock, jazz, reggae, country and world music bands.
Pool Parties At The Darling Hotel
Visalia, California
To see the most up to date schedule and information
When: Certain Sundays from June into September
Instead of spending hundreds of dollars for a plane ticket to Vegas or Miami, you can enjoy a summer bash right in the heart of downtown Visalia. The Darling Hotel has opened their luxurious Pool Terrace on select summer dates to the public. You’ll enjoy live entertainment, great food, and fantastic vibes. Expect specialty cocktails and other beverages created by their Elderwood Bar Team, available for purchase. Each day will feature a different theme or partnership. Be aware that general seating around the pool and towels will be available on a first come, first serve basis. Or better yet, pick up a VIP ticket for private couch seating and preferred bar service.
Bear Valley Music Festival
Bear Valley, California
Learn more about the Bear Valley Music Festival
When: July 21st – August 6th
Besides the deep list of annual summer music series going on across the Sierra Nevada, the Bear Valley Music Festival is an event of its own. Launched in 1967, it hosts some of the most diverse musical lineups in the nation. Featuring everything from a full symphony orchestra to legendary rock n’ roll entertainers. Past events have included names such as the Mamas and the Papas, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, and even the Temptations. The goal is to provide a simple and stunningly mellow environment for people to interact with incredible quality original music by local, regional, national, and international sounds against a rugged mountain landscape. What more could you ask for?
Regardless of your favorite live music or the food you enjoy most, we’ve got you covered. After you finish your day, pull up an Adirondack chair, lay back and take in the easy summertime vibes the High Sierra has to offer while listening to some live music.
Author: Alex Silgalis
Alex founded Local Freshies® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.
Stay Up to Date
Join our mailing list for updates on hidden gems, events, and more from California's High Sierra.
French Website