Concerts in the Plaza is presented every year by the San Luis Obispo Downtown Association as a free concert for the public in the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. “The Mission”, as it is commonly referred to, was built in 1772 by Spanish Missionaries and local Chumash Indians and is one of 21 historical missions in California. When it was built it was likely never imagined that this plaza would be filled with music, people, dancing, food and drinks. However, every summer for 13 weeks Friday nights become THE night for locals and tourists alike to come downtown and move their bodies to the rhythm of local music.
The concert venue itself is gorgeous but the music is the real gem of the series. We get treated to local talent ranging in genres from reggae to jazz and electronic rock to cowboy yodeling, there is a concert for everyone with all tastes in music. Often times people show up regardless of who is playing that night and simply because they want to be around a lively crowd and good vibrations. If this sounds like something that you would be interested in and your wondering, “Dom, you’ve sold me on the show but how do I know who’s playing and what time should I bring my dancing shoes down?” then I have the answer for you.
To see who’s playing that week you can simply follow this link here (WFS) and not only see the complete schedule but the weather forecast for the evening and a link to the band that is playing that night. For example, tomorrow night is the kick off of the event and Nada Rasta will be the band playing; by clicking on their link it takes you to their facebook band page where you can listen to their music and learn about the band. Don’t forget to take note that the event begins at 5:30 and runs until 7:30 in the evening. That leaves you plenty of time after the show to grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants and shop our beautiful downtown.
The New Times news of San Luis Obispo regularly refers to Concerts in the Plaza as a “Best Bet” for what to do on a Friday night in town. If my vote counts for anything there, I would have to agree with them. See you there tomorrow night!
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