Finnegan Blue band
NCT band
Mariachi Garibaldi band
The Fabba show band
B.I.G. band
Left coast quintet

The Cultural Arts Division enhances the vitality of the City of Carlsbad and enriches the quality of life for all residents by fostering a thriving arts and cultural environment. Through dynamic programs and partnerships, we support opportunities for creative expression, lifelong learning and community connection.

Our performing arts programs are made possible through the generous support of the Carlsbad Library and Arts Foundation, Carlsbad Friends of the Arts and the Robert H. Gartner Cultural Endowment Fund.

Make it an evening to remember:

  • Explore the latest exhibition at the Cannon Art Gallery
  • Enjoy a delicious treat at Chapters Café
  • Create meaningful connections with friends and family through the arts 

Saturdays in the Courtyard

Whether you're discovering a new artist, participating in a hands-on workshop, or enjoying a live performance, there's always something inspiring happening in Carlsbad.

Join us for Saturdays in the Courtyard, a vibrant outdoor performance series that brings the Carlsbad community together for fun, music, and connection. Set in the beautiful Ann Kulchin Courtyard, this free event offers a festive atmosphere filled with live entertainment and great company.

Whether you're meeting up with neighbors, enjoying the sunshine, or discovering new performers, it's the perfect way to spend a Saturday. With performances designed for all ages, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Come for the music—stay for the memories. 

Hot PstromiDECEMBER

*Moved to the Schulman Auditorium*  
Dec. 13, 5 p.m.
Hot Pstromi

Yale Strom performs Jewish folk music from Central and Eastern Europe. Strom is a trailblazer in the klezmer revival.  Klezmer is characterized by its lively rhythms and melodies. 

  

Blame Betty A*Special "Dance at the Dove" event with Blame Betty*

Dec. 27
Free dance lesson with McCann Dance at 4:30 p.m.
Blame Betty concert begins at 5 p.m.

Kick off the evening with a free dance lesson from McCann Dance instructors, who will teach you some fun steps to show off on the dance floor. 

Then, enjoy a high-energy performance by Blame Betty, a San Diego-based trio known for their rockabilly, roots rock, and surf sound. Inspired by 1950s rock-and-roll legends like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, Blame Betty brings vintage vibes with a modern edge.

Front Row Saturday

Experience the magic of Front Row Saturday, a free live performance series held in the cozy and intimate 215-seat Ruby G. Schulman Auditorium. This series celebrates the vibrant talent of emerging and established artists from San Diego and North County, offering an exciting mix of music, theater, dance and more.

Enjoy an up-close and personal performance that brings creativity to life in a welcoming setting designed for connection and inspiration.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m.
Performances for all ages
Always free and open to the public

DECEMBER

Ratzman
Dec. 20, 5 p.m.

Swingin' with Dean

Talented multi-instrumentalist Dean Ratzman plays a variety of genres including swing, jazz, rock and soul from the 1940s through the 1980s. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Arts On Demand

Your library card grants you free access to Alexander Street Performing Arts Collections online. It features a diverse range of captivating music, dance and theatre performances spanning various genres. It also has content from renowned providers such as the National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company, Smithsonian Global Sound for Libraries, Broadway On-Demand, and more. Access to this resource is provided by the California State Library in partnership with ProQuest.

More free e-resources at your fingertips.