Exploring a vibrant soundscape

In addition to the breathtaking landscapes, epic recreation, and thriving beer and food culture, Bend boasts a vibrant live music and entertainment scene that keeps the city humming year-round. Summer explodes with the electrifying energy of outdoor concerts and festivals, while winter finds the rhythm continuing on intimate indoor stages and concert venues. And Bend’s soundtrack is as diverse as its landscape. 

Whether you’re a die-hard fan chasing A-list pop, country, or rock performers or craving a whole new sound from a local band, Bend’s live music scene has something for every ear. The city hosts a line-up of genres from intimate singer-songwriter sets to pulsating rock concerts. Beyond the stage, Bend explodes with vibrant festivals throughout the year. Immerse yourself in a celebration of art, food, and music, or laugh at a side-splitting stand-up comedy show. No matter your taste, Bend’s live music and entertainment scene guarantees an unforgettable experience.

Visiting Central Oregon in the summer? Read this post for tips on navigating Bend’s summer concerts, festivals, and live music.

Music and entertainment venues 

From renowned summer concert venues under the stars to intimate clubs and historic theaters, Bend offers a diverse range of stages to ignite your musical spirit. Here’s a glimpse into some of Bend’s most lively music venues.

Hayden Homes Amphitheater

Get ready for open-air concerts and unforgettable summer nights at the iconic Hayden Homes Amphitheater. Dance the night away to a star-studded lineup, including legendary rockers, country favorites, and other musicians from across the musical spectrum. This venue boasts a sprawling lawn with the Deschutes River as its breathtaking backdrop. Tickets for these big names often sell out quickly, so snag yours early to secure your spot. 

Fuel up before the show with delicious offerings from Bend’s favorite food carts. Or quench your thirst with a selection of refreshing beverages from cocktails to beer and plenty of non-alcoholic options. Hayden Homes Amphitheater offers a unique blend of intimacy and scale and ensures there’s not a bad seat in the house. Dance the night away near the stage on the spacious lawn, or relax and enjoy panoramic views from comfortable reserved seating. Accessibility is a priority here, with dedicated ADA seating and parking available.

Midtown Ballroom

Thumping bass lines and electrifying energy await at Midtown Ballroom, the heart of Bend’s live music scene. This versatile venue caters to a diverse range of musical preferences, featuring everything from energetic rock bands and soulful R&B singers to pulse-pounding hip-hop artists. 

Midtown Ballroom is actually a complex of three distinct spaces, each offering its own unique vibe. The main stage, also known as The Midtown Ballroom, is the largest and boasts a dynamic atmosphere perfect for catching your favorite touring acts. For a more intimate experience, head to The Domino Room, a mid-sized space with a dedicated 21+ bar upstairs overlooking the stage. And if you’re looking for a hidden gem, check out The Annex, a cozy upstairs space perfect for catching up-and-coming local bands – also 21+.

Volcanic Theatre Pub

Craving a unique blend of live music and theatrical performances? Look no further than the Volcanic Theatre Pub. This cozy black-box venue fosters artistic expression with local and regional acts, all under one roof. Sip on a selection of craft beers and regional wines while you’re captivated by electrifying music, thought-provoking theater, or films that will shake you. The Volcanic Theatre Pub is a haven for those seeking an intimate and unforgettable cultural experience in Bend. 

The Tower Theatre

Step back in time at the historic Tower Theatre, a cornerstone of Bend’s cultural scene since 1940. This beautifully restored Art Deco venue offers a captivating mix of live music, film festivals, and theatrical productions. More than just entertainment, the Tower Theatre serves as Central Oregon’s leading performing arts organization, enriching the community with cultural and educational programs. Experience the magic of live performances on the historic stage and discover Bend’s vibrant cultural legacy. 

Greenhouse Cabaret

Step into a world of raw talent and captivating performances at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend’s newest professional theater. The intimate space brings you closer to the actors, script, and direction, creating a truly authentic connection where the focus is on the power of storytelling. While they’re not your typical black box theater, The Greenhouse Cabaret transforms its space with creativity for every show, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience. Plus, they’re leading the way in Central Oregon by directly paying their cast and crew, ensuring top-notch talent graces the stage. If you’re seeking an intimate and thought-provoking performance that elevates the Bend arts scene, The Greenhouse Cabaret is a must-visit.

Open Space Event Studios

Open Space Event Studios is a vibrant hub for artistic expression in Bend. This adaptable venue transforms to host everything from concerts and hilarious improv shows to stand-up comedy routines. Whether you’re a music lover, a theatre enthusiast, or simply looking for a good laugh, Open Space offers a dynamic platform for local and regional talent. 

Finally, keep your ears peeled as you explore the vibrant areas of Downtown Bend and the Old Mill District. Street musicians often fill the air with melody on First Fridays, while expansive open-air concerts can transform the cityscape into a bustling festival ground.

Comedy

If you want to tickle your funny bone, Bend’s comedy scene offers a few spots to satisfy your comedic cravings.

Hit the stage yourself (or watch others do it!) at an open mic night! Craft Kitchen & Brewery hosts a regular Comedy Open Mic Night, offering aspiring comedians a platform to showcase their talents. Enjoy a beer while you cheer on the brave souls who take the stage and discover Bend’s next comedic gem.

For professional stand-up, look no further than Bend Comedy and Beertown Comedy. These local comedy clubs feature established and up-and-coming comedians, guaranteeing an evening of side-splitting laughter. Check their calendars to see which hilarious acts are rolling through Bend!

Festivals

Bend and Central Oregon come alive with festivals year-round. Summer explodes with multi-day outdoor festivals, offering everything from craft brews at brew fests to vibrant art walks and foot-stomping folk music. Food festivals tantalize taste buds with delicious bites from local vendors, showcasing the region’s culinary scene. Even winter offers a taste of the good life with festivals featuring live music, artisan markets brimming with local crafts, and frosty local beers and treats to warm you up. 

Among the many festivals in Bend, a longtime favorite is Munch & Music. Enjoy a delightful fusion of live music, bounce houses, local food, and craft beverages. This family-friendly summer concert series takes place at Drake Park, where you can spread out your picnic blanket, savor culinary creations from various food vendors, and groove to the tunes of talented musicians. Grab your appetite and dancing shoes, and get ready for a memorable summer evening at Munch & Music.

Explore our comprehensive events calendar for a list of upcoming festivals that perfectly match your interests and travel dates. This is your ultimate resource for discovering everything from family-friendly fun to soulful concerts and rich local culture. So, come experience the infectious energy and diverse offerings of Bend’s festival scene—there’s a celebration waiting for you!

Bend’s soundtrack is as diverse as its landscape. Catch legendary acts under the stars at the Hayden Homes Amphitheater, or discover up-and-coming local bands at the Volcanic Theatre Pub. Get swept up in the electrifying energy of Bend’s festivals, offering a vibrant blend of art, food, and music that keeps the celebration going year-round. Whether you crave electrifying concerts, gut-busting laughs, or a taste of local culture, Bend’s live music and entertainment scene guarantees an unforgettable experience.