La Jolla's Beloved Oceanside Summer Concert Tradition

The History of the La Jolla Concert by the Sea

For over 30 years, the La Jolla Concert by the Sea has been a beloved summer tradition in the seaside community of La Jolla, California. Taking place every Sunday from June through early September at Ellen Browning Scripps Park, right above the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean, this free concert series showcases local musicians of genres like jazz, reggae, classic rock and more.

Origins in the 1980s

The La Jolla Concerts by the Sea series started in 1983 when the non-profit La Jolla Festivals group was looking for ways to bring the community together through artistic events. The seaside setting of Scripps Park, with its views of the ocean and the green cliffs, seemed like the perfect venue for Sunday afternoon concerts.

The first concerts featured mostly classical music and drew a couple hundred locals. But over the next few years, the organizers began to incorporate more popular music styles. By the late 1980s, audiences grew into the low thousands as word spread about the spectacular oceanside location.

Growth in Popularity through the 1990s and 2000s

During the 1990s, the La Jolla Concerts by the Sea continued to increase in popularity, with audiences swelling to 2,000-3,000 people by the middle of the decade. The concerts began attracting visitors from all over San Diego County seeking an enjoyable Sunday activity.

In the early 2000s, the concerts started booking more regional acts and tribute bands playing classic rock and oldies tunes, appealing to a wider demographic. Attendance numbers frequently exceeded the 5,000 mark during this period.

The La Jolla Concerts by the Sea also became an increasingly important fundraiser for its founding organization, the La Jolla Festivals group. In the 2000s, proceeds from vendor booths and donations helped fund free musical theater performances for 15,000 schoolchildren every year.

The Concert Experience in La Jolla

A typical La Jolla Concert by the Sea begins at 3pm when the band starts playing on a large stage set up just above the ocean. Audiences come early to set up on the grassy area and sandy beach below, laying out chairs, mats and picnic baskets.

Eclectic Musical Lineups

While the earliest concerts focused on classical music, these days the musical lineups are quite eclectic. A typical summer includes tributes to famous artists like Elton John or Michael Jackson, jazz and reggae bands, classic rock cover bands, and local performers playing indie folk or blues.

San Diego has a thriving music scene, so concert organizers can curate different musical genres and highlight homegrown talent. But the common thread is the family-friendly atmosphere appropriate for all ages.

Festive, Community Atmosphere

The concerts have an upbeat, festive vibe, almost like a tailgate party by the beach. People talk with their neighbors, kids play games on the grass, and dancing often breaks out near the stage. Applause and cheering is almost constant between songs.

Locals and out-of-town visitors mingle together with their beach chairs and sun umbrellas. Because admission is free, the concerts have an relaxed, informal community spirit of all ages having fun together.

Stunning Seaside Setting

Of course, the real star of the La Jolla Concerts by the Sea is the spectacular setting overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The sight of the sun glinting off the water, the sound of the rolling waves, and the salty breezes contribute to an unforgettable experience.

Many concertgoers talk about the almost hypnotic effect of seeing the ocean and listening to music at the same time. The concerts have been described as "blissful" and getting "lost in the happy vibes." It's a one-of-a-kind music experience found nowhere else.

Continuing a Cherished Summer Tradition

After over 30 years, the La Jolla Concerts by the Sea series has become a treasured summer ritual for San Diego residents and visitors alike. The incredible oceanside location, festive community atmosphere, diverse music lineups, and free admission make for an memorable way to spend Sunday afternoons.

For many concertgoers, attending the La Jolla Concerts by the Sea has turned into an annual family tradition over the generations. There is truly no better place to catch some live music than oceanfront at Scripps Park each summer.

FAQs

Where are the La Jolla Concerts by the Sea located?

The concerts take place at Ellen Browning Scripps Park in La Jolla, right above the ocean. The park is located at 1100 Coast Blvd.

What time do the concerts start and end?

The concerts always start at 3:00 pm on Sundays. They typically end around 5:00 pm, but times may vary depending on the performer.

How much do tickets to the concerts cost?

The concerts are completely free and open to the public. No tickets or reservations are required.

Can I bring food and drinks?

Yes, concertgoers often come early to picnic on the grass or beach before the music starts. Bring your own food, non-alcoholic drinks, blankets, chairs, and umbrellas. Outside alcohol is not allowed.