What do you get at the intersection of artisan wine, carefully crafted culinary creations, laid-back luxury and a fantastic live music scene? You get Napa. No two visits to the Wine Tasting Room Capital of the World are the same, due in no small part to the always-exciting lineup of events we have to offer. We love a good show here, which means we have tons of live music venues showcasing both national acts and hidden local talents. Check out our picks for the best places to catch some tunes and discover how live music can sometimes be the perfect pairing to your escape.
THE SHOW MUST GO ON
No matter when you decide to indulge in a visit to wine country, you’ll find live music at these spots every week — come rain, shine or anything in between.
- JaM Cellars
While “JaM” technically stands for “John and Michelle,” it’s also a pretty good indication of what kind of vibe they offer alongside their wine selection. They offer live music Thursday through Saturday every week, giving you tons of opportunities to jam with them. Select the tasting of your choice and settle in among decades of classic music memorabilia, which perfectly sets the ambiance for the evening’s show. Enjoy local acts at their downtown tasting room, or you can head to the JaM Cellars Ballroom, located in the historic Napa Valley Opera House, to see some bigger names take the stage.
- Levendi Wine
The name “Levendi” comes from a traditional Greek toast that encourages you to “celebrate life.” And what is life without music? No life at all, according to Levendi Wine, which is why they host live music every Friday with no additional cover charge. Showcasing a wide range of local artists, you’ll find any and every genre at this downtown tasting room, from boot-stomping country to slow, acoustic ballads best enjoyed with a glass of wine and someone you love.
- Feast It Forward Studio
More than just a tasting room, Feast It Forward considers itself a playground for the local artist. While you sip, you can browse artwork, poke your head into their film studio and of course, enjoy some incredible tunes. On Sundays, they host open mic nights, encouraging local artists to try their hand at wowing the crowd — so if you’re musically inclined, this might be a great spot to hit.
- Be Bubbly
There’s something about a glass of champagne that makes any event feel a little more special. Join the folks at Be Bubbly on Thursday nights for their acoustic artist feature paired with a stunning sparkling wine flight. Or, check out their events calendar and see what kind of exciting performances they have planned for the weekend. More often than not, you’ll find a talented local artist taking the stage to add a soundtrack to your weekend sipping.
- Andaz Napa
The Andaz hotel might be best known for its luxury accommodations and world-class dining — but they also offer live music! The laid-back cocktail and bites bar, Mercantile Social, is a great venue for enjoying good weather, good wine and good music.
- Downtown Joe’s Brewery
For a more casual, locals-only kind of vibe, Downtown Joe’s Brewery is your spot. In addition to their artisan selection of microbrews, you’ll find craft cocktails, an extensive food menu and tons of exciting activities. They host live music Friday-Sunday nights, and they offer karaoke on Tuesday nights if you’d prefer to make a little music of your own.
- Blue Note Napa
If you know music, you probably know Blue Note. This nationally acclaimed entertainment group has hosted some truly special talents over the years, from jazz powerhouses such as Dizzy Gillespie and Etta James to lesser-known — but no less skilled — local talents across a wide range of genres. Settle in at this intimate performance venue and enjoy world-class food and drinks alongside a show you’ll never forget.
- The Fink Napa
Have a drink with the Fink and enjoy the jazzy piano stylings of pianist Mike Greensill, who has a standing residency on Wednesday nights at this speakeasy-style bar. On the weekends, they host a rotating cast of artists that provide the perfect soundtrack to a late-night drink. Conveniently nestled right next door to The Fink is the Napa River Inn. Book an overnight stay at this charming riverside property.
SEASONAL SOUNDS
Depending on the season, there are plenty of exclusive events that you’ll have to catch before they’re gone. Check out some of the seasonal events coming up this year as you’re planning your next trip.
- Blue Note Summer Sessions at the Meritage Resort & Spa
A much-anticipated event series is returning to Napa this year as the Blue Note Summer Sessions kick into gear. Hosted at the Meritage Resort & Spa, this concert series runs from June-August and features a diverse range of performers, each bringing their own unique charm to the Meritage’s dynamic performance space. - Friday Nights in the Park
What’s better than a stroll in the park? A stroll in the park with a great soundtrack, of course. These completely free concerts are a staple of Friday night activities here in Napa during the summer. Head to Veteran’s Park every Friday night to see which local artist you’ll be treated to that evening. - Festival Napa Valley
Dedicated to cultivating a vibrant arts scene here in Napa, Festival Napa Valley hosts a variety of events throughout the summer season, each aimed at uplifting local artists and creating space for visitors and locals alike to enjoy the rich cultural offerings of the valley. - Oxfest
This festival will be held for the first-ever time this year, but it’s sure to become a beloved annual tradition. Held in the Oxbow Commons, Oxfest is a celebration of all the best of Napa — from food and wine to artisan goods and plenty of live music.
You’re Meant to Be Here
No matter when you visit, Napa has everything you need to completely relax, recharge and reset. Book your stay today and discover all that we have to offer here in the heart of wine country. We can’t wait to see you.
