Summary of Outdoor Concerts in Los Angeles
Outdoor concerts are a wonderful way to enjoy the summer weather in Los Angeles, showcasing a diverse array of musical tastes, from classical and jazz to rock and Latin genres. Importantly, while some events require tickets, many concerts are free to the public, offering an affordable way to enjoy summer music in the city.
Summer Season at the Hollywood Bowl
The Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and LA Philharmonic, among other performers, present captivating shows throughout the summer at the historic Hollywood Bowl.
- When: June through September (concerts continue into October)
- Where: 2301 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood
- Cost: Varies, check Goldstar for discount tickets.
- Info: The Hollywood Bowl
Ford Amphitheatre Summer Season
The Ford Amphitheatre showcases a variety of music genres, including jazz, world music, dance, classical, and film. Food and beverages are available for purchase during events.
- When: May–October
- Where: Ford Amphitheatre, 2580 E. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood
- Cost: Prices vary.
- Info: The Ford Amphitheatre
Summer Music at LACMA
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art features a dynamic lineup of music events including Jazz at LACMA and Latin Sounds.
- When: Fridays April through November; Saturdays May through September; Sundays all year
- Where: LACMA, 5905 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles
- Cost: Free. Museum admission is not included.
- Info: LACMA Music
Western Music Association Showcase
The Autry National Center hosts musicians and cowboy poets who pay tribute to the Old West through song and spoken word.
- When: Third Sunday of every Month.
- Where: Autry National Center, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles
- Cost: Regular museum admission applies; free for members
- Info: Autry National Center
Music at Descanso Gardens
Enjoy eight weeks of live jazz and world music in the picturesque Descanso Gardens, where attendees can relax while sipping cocktails or enjoying picnics.
- When: World Rhythms Tuesdays, DJ Wednesdays, Jazz Thursdays, late June through mid-August
- Where: Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge
- Cost: Free with garden admission; advance reservations required.
- Parking: Free on site
- Info: Descanso Gardens
Levitt Pavilion Macarthur Park
The Levitt Pavilion hosts a series of free concerts during the summer months, featuring various musical genres and popular performers.
- When: June 1st through September 1st.
- Where: Levitt Pavilion, northwest corner of Macarthur Park, near West 6th Street and South Park View Street
- Cost: Free
- Metro: Red or Purple Line to Westlake/MacArthur Park Station
- Info: Levitt Pavilion
Twilight Dance and Music at the Santa Monica Pier
The Annual Thursday Twilight Music and Dance Series at Santa Monica Pier features a variety of bands throughout the summer months, providing an entertaining outdoor experience.
- When: Thursdays, July through the first week of September
- Where: Santa Monica Pier
- Cost: Free
- Parking: 1550 Pacific Coast Highway Lot for a fee, no parking on the Pier
- Info: Santa Monica Pier
Long Beach Municipal Band and Concert in the Parks Series
The Long Beach Municipal Band is a longstanding institution, providing free summer concerts in various parks. Guests are encouraged to bring picnic essentials for a delightful outdoor experience.
- When: Late June through early August, various days and times
- Where: Various locations
- Cost: Free
- Info: Municipal Band, Concerts in the Parks, and more summer events at 100daysofsummer.org
