The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater

Honestly..... some of the best venues in town still baby bash was amazing and I cant wait ti see Gary Owen. I appreciate the FOX theater. Been going there sense I was 5. Im 36 now my first show by my self was Techn9ne in 96! But ive seen many others Pointer Sisters, Winona Jud, 311, Breaking Benjamin, the list go's on! #1 the FOX.

Went to the Historic Fox for a comedy show. Bathrooms were accessible with no line. Drinks quick with short lines. Food a bit longer for standard snacks. Sat right behind front row with zero issues. Enjoyed myself and my party had a grand time regardless of views. Appreciate the fox for all it offers .

Great venue... Pretty much any seat is a good seat. I only wish they had a full bar and not just beer and wine.

We're truly blessed to have this historic theater to enjoy. I always love going to event's here simply to enjoy the architecture and classic vibe. On this occasion, we went to a cults & classics movie night (The Crow) on a Monday and it was a really nice time. Prior to the movie start they liven things up by doing a movie trivia game where the audience participated via an app. There were plenty of beverages and snacks to choose from. There aren't fountain drinks, just bottled items. They had a theme appropriate vendor there selling jewelry which I thought was s cool touch.

This theater is beautiful but has limited parking so come early to get the closest parking near the entrance. The seats are comfortable and has amazing AC. The event itself was beautiful but the security kept repeating that photos and videos weren’t allowed and that got a bit annoying. But overall it’s an amazing experience with a beautiful place that dates back to the 1930’s so that’s cool. Note: The ballet company themselves didn’t allow photos or videos each event is different so depending on the event you are attending you’ll be able to have the choice to have your phone out if they say so or not.

The Fox Theatre is a landmark that deserves praise. The shows here are magnificent, outstanding, and very entertaining. Killer Queen did an amazing job tributing to Queen. Bakersfield residents wake up and realize that Bakersfield has content, taste, and talent!!

The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater, November 4, 2024 "Inclusion Films" Presents it two Christmas movies & it's always free to the public. So I came to see the movies because my nephew works there at "Inclusion Films" & he's an editor & he's been there a very long time first through the schooling part & now working for Dale & Joey Talvota. Dale is so awesome with all of the students with different disabilities & his staff is also! Thank You so very much Joey Talvota for doing this & to The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater for always hosting the "Inclusion Films" with much love & respect! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'s & 💯%+ Great Job! 😎👍 P.S. Don't forget the 🍿 popcorn because it's one of the best around & plus a nice cold drink & a candy to go along with it!

Just saw Morrissey the other night. Great intimate and easy to navigate theater. The pit area is small, so it's not too crowded, which was perfect for me.

The performance we saw was amazing and everyone did a fantastic job. The theatre has a great, vintage vibe and lots of beautiful things to see. Concessions are on par with a movie theater. My complaint is with the late comers and the ushers. I wish people would be considerate and arrive on time. If they're late, I wish the ushers would hold them until intermission. It was crazy how much of the performance was blocked because of rude people standing in the aisle, stupidly looking for their seats. Also, make sure you sit in the right seats to begin with! People would be looking for their seat, but would be confused because someone was already sitting there. The seats are clearly marked...it's not that hard people. It's frustrating to miss out on parts of the performance because of oblivious people. Our seats weren't cheap! I'd say buy front and center, but counted at least 10 people cutting through the front row to get to their seat at the other side. Ridiculous!

It's been many moons since I stepped inside the Fox Theatre. I recently went to an event and this place still blew me away. It's a part of Bakersfield history and is still looking beautiful. The small historic vibe is what makes me love this place. The small crowds, the small amenities they offer is great. The restrooms were in working order, the staff were nice, the overall feel to this place is wonderful. I would definitely recommend this place for any event.

It's been many years since I have been to the Fox. The last three times were for graduations. I was really looking forward to seeing Anjelah Johnson yesterday, It definitely didn't disappoint. She was absolutely hysterical. I laughed the whole time. Good for the soul! My friends have seen her four times now. The bathrooms are located upstairs, so that's a pain. The place was so packed. They have a very strict policy about cell phones. You can't video tape or take photos. You will be escorted out and receive no refund. The last couple minutes, they turn on the lights and you can take a video or photo. I look forward to returning to this venue. * The opener for Anjelah was Mal Hall. Not my cup of tea. He screams loudly, and I just didn't enjoy the humor. 6/21/25

HOT. What can you say, I know it's a classic old building and it's summer time in Bakersfield but if you know an event is happening in the evening you should be running the A/C the night before and all day to cool the space down. Really wondered if they turned the ac on an hour before the show or if the ACs need to be repaired or replaced. It was a packed house so probably 1,500 ish people and down in the front the heat was just a cloud and the weed smoke etc that's unavoidable during concerts was also marinating us. I was surprised that the fox didn't have more of a handle on the smoking since we were inside, it wasn't horrible but it was more than I was expecting. The ambiance is unbeatable, the tall ceiling with star twinkle lights, the massive drapes, the architectural details -all gorgeous. The lobby is pretty small but also classic with its red carpet and grand double sided staircase. Not a lot of space for people to navigate through when it's packed. They did have one handicapped accessible bathroom down stairs and the main "big" bathrooms are upstairs. Concessions were fine and pricing typical, $5 water $16 beers, they also had popcorn, candy etc which was fun for a concert, I normally associate those with movies. I think I'll be more mindful of summer time concerts in the future and take the heat into the equation. I think during the winter it would be an ideal and enjoyable venue

I have been here a few times for various events through the years. Everytime it's been a wonderful experience. There really isn't quite anything like it in town. The amount of color and use of light is so wonderful. The stairway alone showcases how Grand this venue is. We came here the other night to watch Mad Max. We loved that people came out in post apocalyptic gear! The cars were cool too!! I really love that we have something like this local here to us! I definitely plan on trying to go to more shows here!

I see that another reviewer has already left a comment regarding the lateness of other guests being seated, but the problem with Fox is that when we arrived at 6:20 with the Nutcracker starting at 7:00, the line was around the block. We barely made it to our seats before the show began . At that time there was still a line of people who had been waiting to get in. These folks didn't arrive late to enter. They just could not be seated before the show started. If opening the doors at 6 o'clock means everyone cannot be seated before the show begins at seven., then the fox needs to open earlier so that people can be seated before the show begins. I realize their entrance is slow because of their security check which I think is wonderful, but knowing this open your doors earlier. We were completely unaware that 40 minutes would barely be enough time to get to our seats.

A real Arts Theater, I've watched quite a few performances here and it's very nice looking. Parking is street and it is recommended to get to your showing early due to parking. You may up parking pretty far if you don't watch out. The popcorn has been good all the times we have gone, and have a basic candy selection. They have can alcohol drinks, and they have to open it right then and there which is understandable. Seats are old school theater seats, close together and if you have back issues they are not comfortable. They always have security and metal detectors as most event venues have. The ushers have been very sweet helping people find their seats, and making sure the curtain stays closed during the performances. Like I said, my only suggestion would be to arrive early for good and close parking.

The fox theater is one of the funniest activities you can attend in Bakersfield. I honestly cannot recommend this place enough. Also, the artwork by Kris is amazing !

Took in the Marshall Tucker Band at The Fox Sunday night. The Fox was in its classic form always a pleasure to visit. Refreshment lines moved smoothly there was a seasoned crowd that were ready was to go back in time Some were buying classic MTB merchandise. The show started on time at 7:30 sharp, unfortunately it ended at 9:00 sharp as well. Everyone was hoping for a longer show original member Doug Grey 75 yrs entertained with his stories but wish he would of let his excellent band members perform a few more of the classics we were all excited to hear. We heard 3 classics the band could play and sing them with all the energy they deserve. Wish they would have played a few more sets. The Classic Fox deserved more.

Went to see Morrissey. Great show! Sat in row 3 section C and had a great view of the stage even with people standing in the orchestra pit. Beautiful theater. Friendly service.

The venue is small so I think any view is great! However, the lines for the drinks+ snacks can get very long because of how small the place is. $14 for a beer is crazy but I guess that's venue prices. I took pictures of the ground, it was so dirty, and people That had spilled beer BEHIND us was coming to us all over our shoes. I was not happy about that at all.

I've been to the Fox for quite a few school shows, a couple of movies, and now, finally a real concert, after all the ones from the 80s.. I give them total props for hosting Scott Bradlee's Post Modern Jukebox! Amazing show! The seating is crowded, the concessions are very limited. They have real ushers! It's a blend of good and bad down the line. Update the theater. For the love of God add more bathrooms. The concession stand can use a ton of work The staff was super nice!

They need to turn the AC on! It was color outside in June! Even the comedian was making comments about turning the AC on. Don't be cheap, turn the AC on

What can you say bad about a Historical Spot like the Fox Theater? We have come here many times for concerts and movies and love it every time we come. The staff and security lines for the most part move very quick. It's really nice to see that Bakersfield is supporting keeping the Fox open.

I LOVE Fox Theater! Every time we go we have a great time and the security and staff are ON IT! They are cool but straight up. Also, if anyone acts out, you get thrown the F OUT! I can't wait to go to my next show! You're awesome Fox Theater and Staff! We saw SteveO this time but have seen other shows too.

Very cute place very friendly staff and the food was great . I will definitely go again

Nice place to go to. Been here twice and would like to comeback again if if there is really good show

Visited the theater on Sunday last week. Franco was hilarious but never in my life have I been to a show where sooo many people stood up and walked to the bar during the show !! It was almost as if the bar was giving away all the beer/drinks. And trust me they ain't cheap either! During the show even the comedian said-something along the lines of he didn't mind so many people getting up or yet falling asleep and laughed ! when he said "I've been paid and have your money already" jaja To: Fox Theater management Maybe it would be a good idea to close the food concessions during the show to bring back the "classy side" of your theater... Just a thought to consider.

First time coming here on June 25th. The Brit Floyd concert was amazing, the sound of the instruments were crisp and the seating was comfortable . Would definitely come back to the fox theatre for future concerts and shows

Built in the 1930's --- this place still lives up to its name. Acoustics still awesome. Gives you a taste of history. A must to visit everytime you're in Bakersfield.

What an incredible evening shared at the Fox theater hosted by the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra. We were lucky enough to get tickets to the Hero's and Villains show where the orchestra played scores from some of the most famous Hero and Villain movies. The theater itself is beautiful and nicely kept. The staff is very friendly and the seats are very comfortable.

Oh Fox Theater, how you shine! I remember the days when this old lady was weathered and worn. But slowly, the Fox Foundation has done an incredible job of renovating this Bakersfield treasure. If you get a chance definitely take tour of the some of the back areas. I had the luxury of checking out some of those backrooms way back when. The sights, the smells; it all lends itself to being a part of history. Of course, the crown jewel of the Fox is her magnificent star-studded ceiling. While the acoustics are a little rough for certain types of concerts, it still does the trick.

Just paid good money to see Kenny G in concert and was amazed that the theater allows filming with cell phones. There had to have been fifty people recording on a cell phone - blinding flashlights, holding the phone up and blocking view of the stage. Asked theater staff if something could be done and was told "no". Probably won't return to the venue because of this. Their policy needs to be changed. Have been to concerts at many other theaters like the Fox where a no cell phone, no filming policy is in place which makes for a much more enjoyable evening. For the people who were there recording with a cell phone - why didn't you just save your money and watch a Kenny G concert on YouTube?

New to Bakersfield and fiiiiinally came to the Fox to see a screening -- of Donnie Darko - a 2001 feature in their Cults & Classics showings this month. I'm wayyy late to the party as a first time viewer but I LOVED IT!! As for the theater -- the space has such a great energy, the architecture and ambiance is SO wonderful and the staff are incredibly nice and accommodating. 10 outta 10 - WOULD recommend and WILL BE BACK!! XX Shout out to Gilbert for making me feel so welcome :) Go and support!!

What has happened to the beautiful restored Historic Fox Theater? Last concert we went to was in 2014 to see Merle Haggard and the theater seemed clean, updated and pleasant to be in. Last night we had the pleasure of watching Pink Martini in concert. One of our favorite bands, they always put on a great show. However, when we walked in the theater it seemed cold and neglected. Bathrooms were clean but the back of the seats and floors in the seating area were disgusting. I did'nt even want to sit down for fear of what I did not see in the seat itself. We stood in line at the "concession stand" and I asked what kind of wine they were serving the lady who was helping said she didn't know. I just passed on any drink I thought of having and I sure was not going to drink wine out of a plastic cup. It's really too bad the Fox theater does not class it up somewhat , especially for groups like Pink Martini. It's a shame to see this beautiful theater falling in the cracks again.

This is a great American gem of a theater. It has the name and the looks. You can see why it's worth visiting.

What a landmark! Best venue in town. I love the vintage ambience and enjoyable events. Popcorn and drinks? What else can you ask for? Crazy parking though. I would definitely attend another event.

Attended several events/shows over the past 2 years (KRAB, Janes Addiction, Oingo Boingo... (jk, oingo boingo, lol)...... the venue has always been clean, comfey in both seating and venus environment. Snack bar and beer tickets are priced in line with other concert and theater venues. Some of the venu isle walkers or attendants do space out during the shows. When in the balcony at two events there's been A group of 5 young men VAPING during the shows. There's a place and time for this activity and in a public venue is not the place.

Beautiful historical landmark in Bakersfield. Kudos to those who restored this theater. Been here a few times to watch concerts and shows. Always enjoyed events we have attended. Only bummer is parking around the area can be a challenge especially when there are other events at the same time around downtown. Luckily for us we don't live very far from downtown so we can always Uber or Lyft to go and not worry about parking.

I've came to the fox theater a couple of times for my God kids dance recital. One year I sat on the bottom floor and another year I sat in the balcony. Both were great seating for watching the dance recital. The building itself is nice and well kept together. It's located in downtown Bakersfield and parking isn't that bad.

At the El tri concert and the event hasn't started yet I was waiting 45 minutes outside and went to the bathroom to see the bathroom full of pee every where it seems like Everyone can't pee straight if they can't pee straight they shouldn't be drinking or pee sitting down

Watch "Rebel without a Cause" on Friday night here. Good, clean and non expensive entertainment. I'm interested in other movie viewing events in the future here.

I bought tickets to see Kevin Heart. had the worst time. show started an hour late. I was bullied by the people behind me till I got up and left. I don't usually leave reviews at all bit this was the worst show and experience I have had at this place. I have been coming here for years and I will not come back. Super disappointed all around but if this is how you get treated spend your money somewhere else. Life is to short to have these bad experience. If I could give this 0 stars I would but I can't so I give it a 1. goodbye Fox theater.

Saw Anjelah Johnson last night. Great night with her and the opening act. The venue sadly needs lots more TLC. I was expecting a more elegant interior, but it hasn't aged well. Seating numbers are a mess, the ceiling has lots of rain damage and the wood work needs to be re-stained. And the parking is non-existent.

What a beautiful Bakersfield landmark! I haven't been in so long that I forgot how amazing it is inside when watching a concert or film. The detailing is impeccable. The blue and gold on the walls is breathtaking. The chair cushions could use some updating, just keep the lights off and you won't notice. Wish they would use the actual box office area rather than that tiny side window. Let's keep things more authentic! I also love the Fox for personal reasons. I remember my dad hanging the clocks on the tower with his crane years ago :)

In the 1970s, I had to do my yard work chores on Saturdays. After, I would take the mower I bought for $10 around the neighborhood and mow lawns for local residents. I would mow, rake, bag everything, rake flowerbeds, and usually get paid a dime to a quarter per yard. It was a great business for a 10 year old. I could make from a dollar to $1.50 per Saturday. What the heck does this have to do with the Fox theater? EVERYTHING! In those days, the Fox had a Disney Matinee on Sunday mornings, and the kids would all show up and see two Disney movies, some cartoon shorts, and have a blast! Admission was $.50 (yes, 50 cents) and for an additional quarter, you could get a coke and tube of Kress Chocolate Drops. The Theater was beautiful inside and had a balcony and wonderful, soft seats that folded down. The screen was huge and it was such a fun and safe place to be. I spent just about every Sunday there for several years. Then, sadly, I grew older and the Stockdale Six theater opened. It became all the rage, and my beloved Fox fell, lonely and sad, into disrepair. It sat for some years until someone who loved the place more than me (or saw its potential) decided to save the Fox and restore it to its old glory. Last night I went back there for the first time in about 40 years. It was like going back in time. The decor is original, the screen is still huge, and (though I'm much older now) I had a great time. It is so nice to be able to walk into an old Bakersfield landmark, and know that it hasn't changed much. It was like coming home. The Fox has some great shows and venues that come through and I'm now way more willing to go there since It kept true to the Fox Theater of old. It is a classy old gal, and I didn't realize how much I'd missed her. If you get a good excuse, go visit her please. I bet the old gal would appreciate the visit.

I have been here for a number of events, including a company event, a concert, and a comedy show. The chairs aren't bad, and I actually enjoyed every event and my seat. However, the bathrooms are upstairs and the snacks/drinks are too close to the entrance/exits and there are no real process for them. I refuse to drink there for that reason. I also hate that there is really only one exit, so leaving is a mess. I'm not sure what they can do to improve that, bit overall, the experiences have been decent enough to return.

Worst Experience ever! Neil Young & Crazy Horse. Sat May 5th, 2018 I've attended 100s of concerts in the past 40 years and this was a total waste of time and money. The Theatre is really at fault. The majority of the audience was over 60 years old and my wife uses a walker due to having M.S. ( Multiple Sclerosis). The first thing that happened was after getting the tickets from "Will Call" they created a line outside of the building that stretched around the block. Even though they were supposed to open the doors at 7:00pm, they didn't allow entry until 7:15pm. This made it very difficult for people with special needs. After the opening act began, which was the worst opening act ever "Jonathan Richman" my wife needed to use the restroom. At the fox Theatre the restrooms are upstairs and they have no elevator. They have one small restroom on the first floor reserved for Handicap people. However the line was 7 deep with a man in an electric wheel chair and my wife with her walker, the other people ahead of them were able bodied and would not yield to the needs of the truly handicapped. My wife told the people in line about the restrooms upstairs and then told Theatre personnel of the issue and they did nothing about it. There was about a 35 minute gap between the opening act and the start of Neil Young. Once the show began a good portion of the audience was standing up. I thought they would sit down after the initial ovation but a good 40% did not sit down. There were many people "Videoing" with their cell phones and standing in the isles blocking the view of the rest of the people who could not stand for long. The person in front of us left to contact the Theatre personnel and they did not respond. There was no possible way my wife could have stood to watch this show plus the height of the people would still obscure any possible view. After three songs we left the show, very disappointed and angry about money wasted. I paid $223.94 for a horrible experience and feel cheated. I'm sure we are not the only ones who feel this way. I believe we are owed a refund for such shoddy organization, operation and presentation. I will be sending a similar email to the Fox Theatre Bucky Bakersfield

We saw Jim Jefferies here last night. It's a beautiful theater with great seating. Tickets weren't nearly as expensive for Jefferies as they were in LA. Only complaint is that it was about 110 degrees outside and after a while, it seemed like they were having a problem with the AC. It got uncomfortable and we were ready for the show to end, just to get back into the comfort of our car AC.

Terrible service waited for 2 hours for the O'kate presentation not knowing it was cancelled. My valuable time and money was wasted. At least put a sign up or let people know through social media or radio station if shows are cancelled.

Worst concert experience of my life.... If this place is hurting so bad that they have to sandwich the premium chairs together so tightly just to squeeze out a couple more dollars then they need to fold up and sell the venue.... Absolutely terrible.... Currently sitting in the 2nd row at the Jamey Johnson concert for what would typically be an awesome time, but this venue has turned to straight garbage.... Everyone around us is miserable and pissed.... If I had a dollar for every time I've heard "this is the last time I'm coming here" I'd buy this place with the money I made tonight after it goes into bankruptcy.... WORST concert experience of my life!!! Bar None!!

This review is specifically for the security that worked the recent comedy night. They need to improve. Plain and simple. The security people created the bottle neck and delay for most people entering around 30 minute prior to start time. One employee insisted on chatting it up with each person entering; nobody has time for that. There were inconsistencies in how the employees searched bags and purses. I completely understand the no cell phone use during the comedic performance, but to freak out before the event and FAKE escort people out, only to let them back in, appeared weak. People who arrive 35 minutes after the performance began should have been seated by the security staff in a timely manner, which was not the case. The phone-finder-security guards that were pacing the aisles THE ENTIRE TIME, obstructed my view of the stage several times. He seemed to have missed his calling to be a correctional officer walking the tiers of a penitentiary. Bottom line, the security staff needs BETTER TRAINING!

At concerts, create a small booth for beer lines. The upstairs parking is too complicated. Make temporary signs for people rows and seats. This is especially true for upstairs. Also frequent the restrooms more, stay on litterbugs. Otherwise greatest venue going now with great entertainment. Still give 5 stars for great employees and bands.

Crap function. Ticket says doors open at 530. Yet 6 and being told not letting anyone in till 620 and the concert starts At 630. Lame. Get your crap together.

Been here a couple of time, but each time I find myself staring at the ceiling inside the theatre. I love it! So beautiful and ornate. During this performance (we saw Lisa Lampanelli) we got seats in the pit. It was nice having the ability to move your seat so you aren't sitting so close to others. The staff was friendly and helpful. The bathrooms are clean (especially the upstairs ones). I love just walking around before thw show starts.

Love the vintage ambiance here. We've seen some great artists, shows and musicals at the FOX ! Best Christmas show around is Brian Seltzer. Yes it is an old building with character and the twinkling lights on the ceiling are very cool

Absolutely gorgeous. Went there for the women's Brave conference and it was like I was in another era loved it

Went to a concert there and the staff was so great! The food service lady was smiling and personable. The usher was swamped with people that were lost and remained very cool headed. They remained calm and polite. When the bathroom line got crazy long they went inside to coordinate traffic to the stalls and made the line go faster. Really great job guys!!!!

Played a concert here this past week. It's pretty expensive to use as a performance location, but it has a lot of old-school charm and it's a beautiful room.