Camarillo Insider

Camarillo, California – Ventura County is about to turn up the volume for an incredible week of live music from November 27 through December 3. Whether you’re into bluegrass jams, classic rock legends, or belting out your favorite tune with a live band backing you up, this week delivers the soundtrack to your perfect night out. Get ready to fill your calendar with shows that’ll have you singing, dancing, and wondering why you don’t do this more often.

Kick Off Your Thanksgiving Weekend Right

Wednesday, November 27 sets the tone with an afternoon session featuring Warren Takahashi from 1pm to 6pm, perfect for those who want to ease into the holiday break with some quality tunes. As evening rolls in, catch Jim Friery from 4pm to 6pm before the Bluegrass Jam takes over from 6:30pm to 9pm. If you’re still going strong, stick around for Live Band Karaoke starting at 9pm, where you become the star of the show backed by actual musicians who know their way around their instruments.

Thursday, November 28 is when things really heat up. Thanksgiving night brings out The Clones & Polar Opposites at 4:30pm, followed by the Fred Kaplan Trio happy hour starting at 5pm. Music lovers can choose from over 20 different performances throughout the evening, including Dueling Pianos at multiple venues from 7pm to 10pm. The competition between those piano players gets wild, and audience requests keep the energy high all night long. Rock fans won’t want to miss Mandex, Blackstar, A Rock Legend at 8pm, while The M-80s and Superfreak deliver a double dose of high energy music from 8pm to 11:30pm.

Friday Brings the Full Spectrum

Friday, November 29 showcases the true variety of Ventura County’s music scene. Start your afternoon mellow with Duane Bartels at noon or Mark Pigman running from 12pm to 3pm. As the sun sets, Dueling Pianos returns to multiple locations, Fair Warning teams up with Rock n Roses for an 8:30pm show, and Hot Mess lives up to their name with a set running until 11:30pm. The Listening Room offers an intimate 7pm experience for those who prefer their music with a side of storytelling, while Mestizo Beat brings Latin rhythms to the stage at 8pm.

Saturday Session and Sunday Surprises

Saturday, November 30 turns up the afternoon vibes with Kris Matheson Band at 11:30am and Surfer Joe Band bringing beach rock energy from noon to 3pm. Topa Topa locations host multiple acts, including Electric Love In at their Camarillo spot from 2pm to 5pm. Evening options include Ventura Highway at 5pm and Los Amigos from 5pm to 8pm. Smokey & Friends close out the night starting at 6pm.

Sunday, December 1 keeps it simple but solid with Rose Valley Thorns performing from 7:30pm to 9pm, giving you that perfect Sunday night soundtrack before the week ahead.

Wrapping Up with Legends

The first week of December kicks off strong on Monday, December 2 with Monte Montgomery & Friends at 5pm, The Sea Hunters from 5pm to 8pm, and Jim Friery making another appearance from 5pm to 9pm. Tour Support with Kurt & Bob hits the stage at 6pm, while jazz enthusiasts can groove to The Gratitude Jazz Jam from 7pm to 10pm.

Tuesday, December 3 saves the absolute best for last. The legendary rock band Kansas takes the stage at The Majestic Ventura Theater at 8pm. Yes, the same Kansas that brought you “Carry On Wayward Son” and “Dust in the Wind” will be performing live in Ventura County. This is the kind of show that sells out fast and creates memories that last forever. Earlier in the evening, catch happy hour with Kent Rollins & Friends at 5pm, Bryan McCann at 6pm, Big Adventure at 6:30pm, or the RJ Mischo Blues Showcase at 7pm.

Throughout the week, venues across Ventura County open their doors to both established acts and emerging talent. From cozy brewery stages at Topa Topa locations to the historic Majestic Ventura Theater, each spot brings its own flavor to the live music experience. The beauty of this week is the sheer variety: you can catch a bluegrass jam one night, sing your heart out at live band karaoke the next, and finish strong with a legendary rock band that’s been making music since the 1970s.

Check venue websites for exact locations, ticket information, and any cover charges. Some shows are free, some require reservations, and that Kansas concert definitely needs advance tickets. Grab your friends, mark your calendar, and get ready for seven days of unforgettable live music right here in Ventura County.