The Santa Barbara Bowl, nestled in the picturesque hills of Santa Barbara, California, is a legendary outdoor amphitheater that has been hosting a diverse range of concerts and events for over 80 years. With its breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and its reputation for delivering exceptional sound quality, the Santa Barbara Bowl has become a favorite destination for music lovers from all over the world. In this article, we’ll delve into the rich history of the Santa Barbara Bowl, explore its unique features, and provide an overview of the upcoming concert schedule.
A Rich History of Music and Community
The Santa Barbara Bowl has a long and storied history that spans over eight decades. Originally built in 1936 as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project, the amphitheater was designed to showcase the city’s natural beauty and provide a unique venue for cultural events. Over the years, the Santa Barbara Bowl has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including legendary performers like The Doors, Jimi Hendrix, and Janis Joplin. Today, the venue continues to attract a wide range of artists, from rock and pop to jazz and classical, making it a vital part of the city’s cultural landscape.
Unique Features and Amenities
One of the standout features of the Santa Barbara Bowl is its stunning natural setting. Nestled in a picturesque valley, the amphitheater offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the Santa Ynez Mountains. The venue itself is designed to blend seamlessly into the natural environment, with a rustic, mission-style architecture that reflects the city’s Spanish heritage. In addition to its natural beauty, the Santa Barbara Bowl also boasts exceptional sound quality, thanks to a state-of-the-art sound system that was installed in 2014. With a seating capacity of over 4,500, the venue offers an intimate and immersive experience for concertgoers, with every seat providing an unobstructed view of the stage.
Upcoming Concert Schedule
The Santa Barbara Bowl’s upcoming concert schedule is as diverse as it is exciting, featuring a wide range of artists and genres. Some of the highlights of the upcoming season include:
- April 15th: The Lumineers - The folk-rock trio returns to the Santa Barbara Bowl with their signature blend of catchy hooks and foot-stomping rhythms.
- May 20th: Jason Mraz - The pop sensation brings his unique brand of upbeat, acoustic-driven pop to the Santa Barbara Bowl, featuring hits like “I’m Yours” and “Have It All”.
- June 17th: The Head and the Heart - The indie-folk sextet returns to the venue with their lush, harmony-rich sound, featuring songs from their latest album, “Living Mirage”.
- July 22nd: ZZ Top - The legendary rock trio brings their signature blend of blues-infused rock and roll to the Santa Barbara Bowl, featuring hits like “La Grange” and “Gimme All Your Lovin’”.
- August 19th: The Black Keys - The garage-rock duo returns to the venue with their raw, high-energy sound, featuring songs from their latest album, “Let’s Rock”.
One of the unique aspects of the Santa Barbara Bowl is its commitment to sustainability. The venue has implemented a range of eco-friendly initiatives, including a comprehensive recycling program and a focus on locally sourced food and beverages. Concertgoers can enjoy a range of delicious options, from gourmet burgers to artisanal salads, all while supporting local businesses and reducing their environmental impact.
Planning Your Visit
Whether you’re a seasoned concertgoer or just visiting the Santa Barbara Bowl for the first time, there are a few things to keep in mind when planning your visit. The venue offers a range of amenities, including a full bar and a variety of food options, as well as a merchandise booth where you can pick up exclusive Santa Barbara Bowl gear. Concertgoers are also encouraged to arrive early, as the venue offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a lively pre-show atmosphere.
Getting to the Santa Barbara Bowl
- From Santa Barbara, take the US-101 North towards the Santa Ynez Valley.
- Take the Milpas Street exit and follow the signs to the Santa Barbara Bowl.
- Parking is available on site, with a range of options to suit every budget.
Conclusion
The Santa Barbara Bowl is a truly unique and special venue, offering a one-of-a-kind concert experience that combines stunning natural beauty, exceptional sound quality, and a diverse range of artists and genres. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the area, the Santa Barbara Bowl is a must-visit destination for any music lover. With its rich history, unique features, and exciting upcoming concert schedule, the Santa Barbara Bowl is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for concertgoers of all ages.
What is the seating capacity of the Santa Barbara Bowl?
+The Santa Barbara Bowl has a seating capacity of over 4,500, with every seat providing an unobstructed view of the stage.
Can I bring my own food and drink to the Santa Barbara Bowl?
+Outside food and drink are not allowed in the venue, but a range of delicious options are available on site, including gourmet burgers, artisanal salads, and locally sourced beverages.
How do I get to the Santa Barbara Bowl?
+The Santa Barbara Bowl is located at 1122 N. Milpas St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103. From Santa Barbara, take the US-101 North towards the Santa Ynez Valley, then take the Milpas Street exit and follow the signs to the venue.
