Top Live Entertainment Venues in Central California

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By tachipalace 4 minutes read
Top Live Entertainment Venues in Central California

Central California thrums with top-quality entertainment from music, comedy, theater and MMA. If you’re looking to make weekend plans to escape the stresses of daily life, then take a look at our guide. From big concerts to intimate venues, there’s something for everybody to enjoy. 

Live Entertainment Venues in Central California

When planning where to see live shows near you, consider some of these well-loved theaters, music venues and entertainment centers.

Tachi Palace — Lemoore, CA

For the most complete entertainment destination, head to Tachi Palace Casino Resort. As one of the best music venues in Central Valley, you can enjoy world-class musical acts such as TLC and Cypress Hill on your doorstep. 

The Lux Lounge opened in August 2025 as an addition to Tachi Palace. You can enjoy handcrafted cocktails and live music just a few steps away from the gaming floor, which is the perfect way to combine your passion for casinos and concerts in California. 

Laugh the night away with Tachi Palace’s impressive lineup of comedians, with previous gigs by the likes of Jay Leno and Rodney Carrington. You can also watch top-class combat sports at Tachi Palace, which has a rich history in hosting MMA, UFC and boxing. 

Owned and run by the Tachi Yokut tribe, Tachi Palace grew rapidly from a bingo hall to a casino resort with four-star hotel accommodation and a range of dining options. Once you’ve had your fill of live entertainment, kick back and relax at the on-site spa. You can also relish the elevated steak and seafood offerings at Coyote Grille & Whiskey Den, or try the unforgettable gourmet burgers and hot dogs at Red Tail Hawk Stop. 

Saroyan Theatre — Fresno, CA 

The historic Saroyan Theatre is well-loved for its renowned cultural offerings, which include comedy, concerts, family shows and community events. You can enjoy many of Fresno’s most talented performing arts groups here, from the Fresno Philharmonic Orchestra to opera and Broadway shows.

Opened in 1966, the Saroyan Theatre has expanded over time, but recent refurbishments have tastefully preserved this stunning venue, which can seat up to 2,351 people. 

Many critically acclaimed stars have performed there, including household names like ballet dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov and magician David Copperfield. You can also sing along to some of the most popular musicals and Broadway shows, with past highlights including “Six,” “Les Misérables” and “Riverdance.”

Warnors Theatre — Fresno, CA

Warnors Theatre — Fresno, CA

With almost a century of cultural performances, such as music, motion pictures and theater, Warnors Theatre is still an excellent spot for live entertainment today. You can jam to your favorite music artists, with past performances from renowned acts like Taylor Swift, Morrissey and Fleetwood Mac. 

With 2,100 seats, the theater still hosts a vibrant lineup of live entertainment with community and international events. Its special Robert Morton pipe organ is one of a kind, as it remains in its original installation. You can still admire it at special silent film nights. 

ApCal Rock n’ Ranch — Madera, CA

ApCal Rock n’ Ranch is a popular outdoor music venue that hosts a variety of acts from April to September every year.

While local bands open on stage, this venue also offers many local Californian wines and beers you can sample. Whether your taste is rock, 90s, pop or another genre, you can listen to your favorite tribute acts like Queen or Prince while finding new up-and-coming stars to add to your playlist. The 1,600-square-foot dance floor gives you all the space you need to dance along to your favorite hits with friends and family. 

Crawdaddy’s — Visalia, CA

For dinner and dancing under the same roof, Crawdaddy’s in Visalia pairs Cajun and Creole food with live jazz, rock and blues music. You can hit the dance floor and sway to the rhythm of both local and regional music acts. Or, you may prefer to listen from the comfort of the bar.

Often a favorite for dates and special occasions, this venue can be great fun for couples, families and partygoers. 

Encore Theatre — Tulare, CA

Support local live entertainment in Tulare by catching a show at the Encore Theatre. Founded in 1979, the venue is owned and run by a nonprofit, independent theater organization and puts on around five shows a season. You can see your favorite shows performed by the local community, like “School of Rock,” “Guys and Dolls,” and “Hairspray.” Along with these musical productions are quirky comedies to fit your taste.

With just 100 seats, this theater is perfect for a more intimate evening. Throughout the show, refreshments will be delivered to your cabaret-style seats. Fun for the whole family, most shows are also suitable for younger audiences. 

Cellar Door — Visalia, CA

Head to downtown Visalia for live music, salsa dancing, poetry nights, fashion shows and more at the Cellar Door. This venue is popular for its various themed live music and club nights and is another great spot for dancing while enjoying cocktails.

The Cellar Door can hold up to 500 and is an important hub for independent music in Visalia. Many up-and-coming acts, like Vampire Weekend, have played to full-capacity crowds, so you could be watching the next big thing here. 

Concerts Near Fresno This Weekend

Every weekend, there is a wide range of concerts, from global superstars performing at Tachi Palace to local bands and community theater productions throughout Central California.

Depending on the experience you want, check these venues to find what’s happening near you this weekend:

  • Global acts on your doorstep: For world-class music, comedy and live shows, check out the region’s renowned venues, such as Tachi Palace, Saroyan Theatre and Warnors Theatre.
  • Dance all night long: Move your body to the beat of your favorite touring artists at Tachi Palace. Or, let loose with tribute bands at ApCal Rock n’ Ranch.
  • Outdoor venues: Both ApCal Rock n’ Ranch and Tachi Palace put on outdoor concerts when in season.
  • Family fun: Bring your youngsters and enjoy some community performing arts at the Encore Theatre. For bigger productions that are great for the whole family, try the storied Saroyan Theatre and Warnors Theatre.
  • Casino concerts in California: Like a flutter while tapping along to some live music? Head to The Lux Lounge!

Visit Tachi Palace for the Complete Live Entertainment Experience

There are so many fantastic live entertainment venues in Central California, each offering its own unique experiences. To make the most of what the region has to offer, choose Tachi Palace for your staycation. It offers a fantastic range of live entertainment in-house, and you can easily access some of the region’s other venues by car.

Enjoy luxurious accommodation at Tachi Palace Casino Resort, with fine dining, a spa and a pool as part of your getaway experience. Come for your favorite band and stay to enjoy the spectacular amenities we have to offer. Check our upcoming events or book your stay with us today. 

Visit Tachi Palace for the Complete Live Entertainment Experience
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