A movie palace turned live entertainment and private event venue, Adams Avenue Theater has over 100 years of history. This historic building has functioned as a paradise for cinephiles, a fabric store, a stage for punk rockers, and more. Today, the Art Deco façade displays the original famous marquee and the theater continues to be an important gathering place for locals. What’s more, the venue is often bathed in the warm glow of countless candles as it hosts Candlelight concerts.
The next time you’re wandering through Normal Heights, an eclectic neighborhood in the city, check out what events are taking place at Adams Avenue and admire the historic venue for yourself. About a 12-minute drive from Downtown San Diego, visitors can find street parking around the theater. The venue also boasts 30 designated parking spots for clients.
Candlelight concerts at Adams Avenue Theater
The Candlelight series continues to enjoy enormous success in over 100 major cities worldwide. And you can experience these one-of-a-kind events at Adams Avenue. From candlelit tributes to the likes of Taylor Swift and Vivaldi, these live music performances see talented musicians transform classical and contemporary music under a new light.
Did you know that Adams Avenue Theater…
1. Changed over time
While today the theater can be used for weddings, art exhibits, mixers, and more, Adams Avenue has lived through several eras. Originally opening as The Carteri Theatre in a Spanish Colonial style, it was designed by Louis J. Gill. During the 1960s, the cinema was empty and it was eventually used for punk rock shows. Following its era of non-conformity and stage dives, Adams Avenue became Discount Fabrics, a fabric store that fortunately didn’t infringe upon the building’s charm.
2. Was a rock venue
During its glory days as a vibrant rock venue, Adams Avenue saw the legendary likes of Black Flag, The Cramps, and Iggy Pop perform. Although the theater hosted some iconic shows booked by Tim May, its position as a rock venue began to crumble when a group of indignant ticketholders broke in and destroyed the interior in response to Motörhead’s concert being canceled.
3. Allows you to spend the night upstairs
Adams Avenue Theater continues to evoke a certain sense of nostalgia and acts as a reminder of San Diego’s past. However, it has been catapulted into modernity with the apartment above the theater able to be rented via Airbnb. If you treasure your sleep, don’t worry, all shows must end by midnight! What better way to fully immerse yourself in the Normal Heights liberal lifestyle than by sleeping above a live venue that once acted as a movie and rock hub?
What else can you do at Adams Avenue Theater?
Since it reopened in November 2022, the theater has provided a blank canvas for clients to plan their dream events. You can also keep an eye on the Adams Avenue Theater’s website for upcoming events and shows. Past events have included film screenings and comedy nights.
Listen to some of your favorite music at this spectacular space in San Diego. While there is something special about enjoying a concert in the same place where Iggy performed, Candlelight is coming to several other venues across the city.
Note: For the safety of our audience, all of the candlelight will be provided through flameless candles.