Free events in San Luis Obispo, CA

Mission Plaza in downtown San Luis Obispo hosts an evening of live music featuring Noach Tangeras and The Mother Corn Shuckers. This free, family-friendly concert offers food and drink on site. A complimentary bike valet will be available, and pets should stay at home. Presented in partnership with the City of San Luis Obispo, with support from Sunset Honda as title sponsor, San Luis Obispo Collection as opening act sponsor, Wilde Wealth Management as stage sponsor, and band support from Quesadilla Gorilla.

Art After Dark at The Monday Club presents an evening showcase of original work by seven member artists. Admission is free and the public is welcome. Registration is encouraged for planning, yet attendance does not require it. Guests can explore the historic main hall, designed in 1934 by architect Julia Morgan. A free wine pour and live music set a relaxed atmosphere while artists greet visitors. The exhibition spans painting, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and mixed media, and free parking is available. Featured creators include painter Paula Delay, jewelry makers Kristin Inman and Linda Lewis, ceramic artist Mary Peracca, watercolorist Virginia (Gini) Ortiz who also offers coasters, cards, and tags inspired by her artwork, photographer Liz Ruderman-Miller whose images appear on scarves and notecards, and mixed media artist Marylu Downing whose colorful pieces tell stories. This is a chance to explore local artistry in a historic San Luis Obispo setting.

Enjoy free Friday night movies outside in the courtyard. The screenings feature family-friendly films everyone can enjoy. Arrive early to grab a bite to eat at the available restaurants before the movie begins, and bring your own blankets and chairs to stay comfortable. Entry and parking are free.

Live on the Rocks brings a free oceanfront concert to The Cliffs Hotel and Spa featuring The Molly Ringwald Project, an 80s tribute act known for lively sets filled with familiar hits. The setting highlights summer on the Central Coast with dancing, food, and drinks by the sea. Admission is free and family friendly, open to hotel guests and the local community. Valet parking is $30 and self-parking is $20. Attendees may relax on the lawn with blankets and chairs, with low-back chairs encouraged to preserve views of the stage. Food and beverages are available for purchase, and outside food or drink is not permitted. Water refill stations are available in the lobby or at the Marisol Bar.

This event offers live music and storytelling at the Growing Grounds Downtown store as part of a free series highlighting local performers. This installment features Ricky Berger. The broader lineup for the series includes Derek Senn, Azere Wilson, Emily Laliotis, Natalie Haskins, and Miss Leo.

Spanning five blocks, this market features more than 100 vendors. Shop for farm-fresh produce, enjoy crowd-favorite barbecue, sample tasty prepared meals, browse unique crafts, and treat yourself to baked goodies while taking in the entertainment. There is more to discover around every corner.