The San Francisco Peninsula has a vibrant live music scene, with many locations offering performances for free. To top it off, these restaurants, bars, and venues are often in scenic locations, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the tunes — and the views. We’ve rounded up a list of live music venues by city, so you can find what’s near you.
Burlingame & Millbrae
Beats, Brews & Vines — Live music, brews, and wine are back once a month between June to October on the 300 block of Broadway in Millbrae. Admission is free.
Burlingame’s Music in the Park — Head to Burlingame’s Music in the Park on Friday evenings from June 30 to August 11 for live music, beer, and wine.
Coastside (Pacifica, Half Moon Bay, Pescadero & Loma Mar)
Wine & Music at Barterra Winery — Sip on a glass of wine while listening to a special musical guest each Friday night at Barterra Winery in Half Moon Bay. There is both indoor and outdoor seating available.
Open Mic Nights at Cameron’s Pub — Looking for an option where you can get on the stage? Cameron’s Pub in Half Moon Bay has open mic nights on Thursdays and is one of the longest-running public open mic venues in the Bay Area.
Cocktails & Live Music at Jettywave Distillery — Sit around a firepit at Jettywave's Swell Lounge and enjoy a cocktail and local musical guests. Check their Instagram page for more upcoming events.
Outdoor Live Music at Half Moon Bay Brewing Co. — Enjoy a delicious selection of beer while listening to outdoor live music on weekends at Half Moon Bay Brewing Company. This popular restaurant is dog-friendly and also includes a special menu for your four-legged friend!
Music & Dancing at Nick’s Seafood Restaurant — A local favorite, Nick’s Seafood Restaurant in Pacifica has a beautiful bar space and a large dance floor for live music & dancing on Friday and Saturdays. Be sure to save some time to enjoy Rockaway Beach and the ocean view outside.
Outdoor Live Music at Loma Mar Store & Kitchen — Head to the charming town of Loma Mar for live music among the beautiful redwoods. Menu items include local San Mateo County-raised meat and many plant-based options. Be sure to check their website for music times.
Redwood City
Live Music at Freewheel Brewing Co. — Stop by Freewheel Brewing Co. in Redwood City on Fridays and Saturdays for a refreshing beer and live performances, including open mic nights.
Music on the Square — The popular Music on the Square is every Friday from June 2 to September 1 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. Set up on downtown Redwood City’s beautiful Courthouse Square, it’s the perfect location to enjoy an outdoor concert for all ages — from rock and pop, to salsa and much more!
Music in the Park — With unique and varied musical performances, including Swing, Soul, Celtic, Zydeco, and much more, families can enjoy these free outdoor concert series in the relaxing setting of beautiful Stafford Park.
San Carlos & Belmont
Belmont’s Summer Concert Series — Another great, family-friendly option brings free, outdoor concerts at Twin Pines Park in Belmont every Sunday from June 18 to July 39 from 1:00 - 4:00 PM.
San Carlos’ Music in the Park — These free, Friday night Music in the Park concerts bring the community together at Burton Park in San Carlos to enjoy the summer weather, great music, and the outdoors. From classic rock to country, there is an excellent variety of music genres for everyone to enjoy. The series runs from June 16 to August 4.
San Mateo
Central Park Music Series — This series hosts free live music on Thursdays from June 22 to August 10 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. Food and drink will be available for purchase.
Dueling Piano Show at The Swingin’ Door — Built in the 1940s, The Swingin’ Door is one of San Mateo’s oldest bars, offering a casual place to eat and great nightlife. Try their award-winning fish and chips while listening to the dueling piano show.
Live Music at Par 3 — Come out Saturday nights for live music under the tent overlooking the golf course and enjoy a tasty meal with artisan cocktails. With beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy a fun evening at Par 3.
Palo Alto & Stanford
Outdoor Summer Music Series at Stanford Shopping Center. Gather in the stunning garden setting every Tuesday, Thursday & Sunday through August 20 to enjoy free live music performances by a talented lineup of emerging artists. As an added bonus, take advantage of exclusive discounts and special offers available throughout the shopping center.
Stanford Jazz Festival — Enjoy performances by acclaimed jazz artists with a wonderful line-up this summer. Performances run through August 5, 2023.
Stanford Live Arts Festival — Experience an outdoor performance at the beautiful Frost Amphitheatre on Stanford University’s campus during the Stanford Live Arts Festival. Performances run through August 4, 2023. Wheelchair seating is available for all performances.
Looking for more entertainment on The San Francisco Peninsula? Check out our events calendar for all upcoming events in the area.