Camarillo, California – Ventura County is about to deliver one of the most packed weeks of live music all year, and you’re going to want to clear your schedule from December 11 through December 17. With over 100 performances hitting stages across the county, this week brings everything from tribute shows and bluegrass jams to indie rock and holiday concerts. Whether you’re catching happy hour trios or late-night dance bands, the local music scene is absolutely on fire right now.
Wednesday, December 11, Kicks Things Off
The week starts strong on Wednesday with a full lineup that covers all the bases. Jim Friery starts things early at 4pm, while the Collins/Rollins Group brings smooth sounds to happy hour from 5pm to 7pm. Looking for something different? The Bluegrass Jam runs from 6:30pm to 9pm, perfect for anyone who loves that stringy, foot-tapping energy.
The real standout of the night is TLV (Take It to the Limit tribute to the Eagles) delivering their holiday show from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. This Los Angeles-based tribute act has built a reputation for lush vocal harmonies and exceptional musical accuracy, making them one of the most authentic Eagles experiences you can catch.
Thursday, December 12, Brings the Variety
Thursday absolutely explodes with options. Start with happy hour featuring the Fred Kaplan Trio at 5pm, then watch the evening unfold as dozens of acts hit the stage simultaneously. Karen Eden & the Bad Apples, Colette Lovejoy Band, and Jackson Lee Band all perform from 6pm to 9pm at various venues across the county.
For something truly special, Ariel Pink takes the stage at Ventura Music Hall at 8pm. The indie pop artist’s surreal sound has gained a cult following, and this stop on his “With You Every Night Tour 2025” promises to be memorable.
Late-night options include The Dirty Lowdown, starting at 8:30pm, and Live Band Emo Karaoke from 9pm to 11:30pm for anyone brave enough to sing their feelings with a full band backing them up.
Friday and Saturday Deliver Nonstop Shows
Friday, December 13, might be the busiest day of the entire week, with family-friendly options like the Tiny Tots Concert at 10am, all the way through to late-night performances ending past midnight. The Frights headline at Ventura Music Hall at 8pm, bringing their energetic indie rock to an intimate venue. This San Diego-based band has been making waves in the alternative scene, and their live shows pack serious energy.
Jazz lovers should catch the George Kahn Jazz & Blues Revue Holiday Soiree from 8pm to 11pm. At the same time, rock fans can choose between multiple tribute acts and original bands performing simultaneously across the county. The Zeros, Ras 1, and Gerbil share a bill starting at 7:30pm, and Duncan and the Dragonslayers close out the night from 9pm to 11:30pm.
Saturday, December 14, keeps the momentum going with afternoon shows like Topa Topa Camarillo hosting Elliott Callaway from 2pm to 5pm. The brewery scene in Ventura County has become a major player in the live music circuit, with multiple Topa Topa locations regularly hosting talented local acts. Evening highlights include Raymond Michael’s Blue Christmas at 7:30pm for those craving holiday vibes with a twist.
Wind Down With Monday Through Tuesday
The final stretch of the week brings things to a smooth landing without losing any quality. Monday, December 16, features Monte Montgomery & Friends at 5pm, known for their acoustic virtuosity, plus The Gratitude Jazz Jam from 7pm to 10pm, where local musicians come together for improvised magic.
Tuesday, December 17, wraps everything up with happy hour featuring Kent Rollins & Friends at 5pm and The Fabulous Hangovers taking the stage from 6pm to 9pm. For late-night fans, Pito Pakeeto, Kilborn, and Crying for Kafka share a triple bill starting at 9pm, giving the week one last burst of energy before things reset.
Plan Your Perfect Night
Ventura County’s music scene thrives thanks to its incredible variety and the quality of the venues hosting these shows. From intimate jazz clubs like The Grape House of Jazz to the historic Ventura Music Hall, each spot brings its own atmosphere and character to the experience. Many venues offer free shows with suggested tips for the artists, making it easy to catch multiple performances throughout the week without breaking the bank.
The real beauty of this December 11 to 17 lineup is that you can curate your own experience. Catch a mellow afternoon set at a brewery, grab dinner during an early evening happy hour show, then finish strong with a late-night rock performance. Whatever your musical taste, this week in Ventura County has you covered with talent, energy, and the kind of live music moments that make you remember why you love going out in the first place.
Source: venturarocks.com
Header Image Source: Declan Sun on Unsplash
