Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Experience Free Summer Music & Arts in Redlands
Redlands Bowl has been a cornerstone of cultural enrichment since 1924, dedicated to making performing arts accessible to all. Founded by Grace Stewart Mullen, we pioneered the concept of free, world-class performances in an open-air setting, becoming America's longest continuously running summer music festival. Our programs extend beyond concerts to include educational initiatives like the Eighty-Eight Keys for Youth program, which has impacted over 35,000 young people through music workshops and school assemblies. We maintain rigorous artistic standards while preserving Mrs.Mullen's vision of inclusivity, hosting diverse performances ranging from symphonies to contemporary acts. With a century of experience, our organization demonstrates deep expertise in arts administration, community engagement, and youth development. Our authority in the field is evidenced by partnerships with prestigious institutions and recognition from national arts organizations. We maintain transparency through public reporting of donor contributions and program impacts, ensuring trustworthiness in all operations.
Services
Summer Music Festival
Children's Workshops
Young Artists Competition
School Assemblies
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1923
Highlights and features
- Over 100 years of continuous cultural service to the Inland Empire
- Free admission to all performances and educational programs
- Award-winning youth development initiatives reaching 35,000+ students annually
- Hosted legendary artists including Isaac Stern and Leontyne Price
- Community-led governance with 1,000+ dedicated volunteers
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization
What people say
World-class performances
Free admission
Excellent youth programs
Historic venue
Community favorite
Services
Summer Music Festival
The nation's longest-running free summer music festival presents Tuesday and Friday evening performances under the stars. Featuring symphonies, operas, and contemporary acts, these family-friendly events draw thousands weekly. The festival maintains artistic excellence while preserving accessibility for all audiences.
Young Artists Competition
This prestigious international competition identifies emerging musical talent through vocal and instrumental categories. Finalists perform with orchestra at the Grand Finals, with winners receiving scholarship prizes and career development opportunities. The program has launched numerous successful musical careers since its inception.
Children's Workshops
Interactive music education programs reach over 35,000 youth annually through school assemblies and summer workshops. These initiatives provide underserved students with hands-on experiences in diverse musical traditions, fostering cultural appreciation and artistic development.
Community Outreach
The Eighty-Eight Keys for Youth initiative expands arts access through partnerships with community centers and schools. Programs include theater camps, music instruction, and cultural enrichment activities designed to address educational disparities in underserved populations.
Volunteer Programs
Over 1,000 volunteers support festival operations through ushering, event planning, and administrative roles. The Associates of the Redlands Bowl organization raises critical funds through special events, while student interns gain professional experience in arts management.
People
Beverly Noerr
Executive Director
Beverly Noerr leads strategic operations with decades of experience in nonprofit arts administration, overseeing festival programming and organizational development while maintaining community partnerships.
Valarie Peterson
President of Board
Valarie Peterson chairs the board of directors, guiding organizational governance and long-term planning with a focus on financial sustainability and community engagement.
Carissa Bocanegra
Administrative Manager
Carissa Bocanegra manages day-to-day operations, ensuring efficient execution of programs and maintaining organizational systems that support the festival's mission.
Alex Lehman
Marketing Coordinator
Alex Lehman develops promotional strategies to expand audience reach, leveraging digital platforms and traditional media to enhance community awareness of festival events.
Raya Lemus
Administrative Coordinator
Raya Lemus supports organizational operations with expertise in event logistics and volunteer coordination, ensuring smooth implementation of festival programs and community initiatives.
Questions
What makes Redlands Bowl unique?
We are America's oldest continuously running free summer music festival, combining historic tradition with world-class performances since 1924.
How can I attend performances?
All concerts are free and open to the public. Simply arrive at 25 Grant St, Redlands, CA 92373 for Tuesday and Friday evening shows.
Are there youth programs available?
Yes! Our Eighty-Eight Keys for Youth initiative includes school assemblies, summer workshops, and the Young Artists Competition reaching 35,000+ students annually.
How is the festival funded?
We rely on donations, sponsorships, and volunteer support. Major donors and the Associates of the Redlands Bowl organization provide critical financial backing.
Can I volunteer?
Yes! Over 1,000 volunteers help each season through ushering, event planning, and administrative roles. Visit our website to join.
What historical significance does the Bowl hold?
Founded in 1923 by Grace Stewart Mullen, we pioneered free public access to professional performing arts, maintaining this tradition for over a century.
Videos
Reviews (7)
Mike N.
Jan 15, 2022
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Redlands, Ca. This amphitheater is tucked into a nice neighborhood but is spacious, clean and welcoming. The sound system and acoustics are very good with only one brief feedback instance. They get quality acts here. The drive here from Laguna Beach was three hours on a Friday evening on a jammed freeway. Come early , hang out, there are good places to eat near by. Try the Thai place a block or two away. There is some meager food and drink offerings at the venue but I passed on the Costco hot dogs and had popcorn and bottled water. They don't overcharge for the food and drink items so that
Angela M.
Nov 25, 2021
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Riders in the Sky harmonically guided us with the jingle-jangle of the Old West, as we sat snuggled in blankets under a crisp, clear, November full Moon. It was purely magical...and mask-optional!
Chris Kelly
Sep 08, 2021
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Redlands' answer to the Hollywood Bowl -- a nice, historic outdoor venue for free evening concerts and picnics. Saw two things here this season, both pretty good. A very pleasant way to spend an evening.
Mr. Ree
Sep 04, 2021
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Beautiful as always and even better when they have live music and shows!! Definitely a staple to the community!
L. Eoa
Aug 02, 2021
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Weve lived in the area for so long and finally attended a music event here. Although we got there after starting time, we were still able to enjoy the music while sitting on the grass. I can imagine people arrive very early to find a sitting spot on the benches, or in the grass, where you can still get a good view of the stage. Hoping to come again soon.
Rajat Gupta
Jul 29, 2021
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I went there for the first to attend the Summer Music Festival and it was amazing. There was a Indian Cultural dance night and enjoyed to the fullest. Eagerly waiting for other performance. It happens every Tuesday's and Friday's
David Tellyer
Jun 29, 2020
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The Redlands Bowl is arguably the cultural heart of Redlands. I had my Redlands High School graduation there as did my father, mother, and brother. I attended many summer festival community sings, performances, and picnics. This wonderful venue houses thousands upon thousands every year brining our community close together. May it ever continue to be the heart of Redlands. God bless Redlands.
