Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater

Knowing the venue’s policies before arriving can help make entry and event navigation easier. Policies may vary by performance, so guests should review event-specific details before attending.

• Re-Entry & Smoking: Re-entry policies may vary by event. Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vaping devices, is not permitted inside the theater.²
• Payment Options: The venue operates on a cashless basis. All payments must be made using credit cards and mobile payments.²
• Prohibited Items: Outside food and beverages, professional cameras, laser pointers, aerosol cans, and recording devices may be prohibited. View the full list of prohibited items on the theater’s FAQ page.²
• Age Restrictions: Most performances are open to all ages unless otherwise noted on the event listing.²

For the most up-to-date guidance and information on regulations, check the official Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater FAQ page.

Bakersfield combines historic architecture, public art, restaurants, and live entertainment venues that keep the district active throughout the year. The area surrounding the Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater places visitors close to theaters, arenas, and cultural attractions that highlight Bakersfield’s longstanding music and performance traditions.

• Dignity Health Arena: Dignity Health Theater and Convention Center is known for hosting a variety of live entertainment options such as concerts, family shows, and community events throughout the year.³
• The Nile Theater: The historic Nile Theater has been a Bakersfield entertainment landmark since 1906, evolving from a vaudeville and movie house into a revived performance venue with restoration plans that honor its iconic 1938 Art Deco exterior.⁴

The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater sits in the center of downtown Bakersfield with access to nearby public parking lots, garages, and street parking. Guests are encouraged to arrive early on busy event nights to allow extra time for parking and venue entry.

Public Transportation: Public transportation in Bakersfield includes Golden Empire Transit (GET) bus routes serving downtown stops within walking distance of the theater. Amtrak’s Bakersfield Station is also located a short drive from the venue, connecting travelers through regional rail and bus service.

Driving Directions: The theater is located at 2001 H Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301. There is street parking surrounding The Fox, as well as several outdoor parking lots.³

• 1717 20th St Parking Lot: 1717 20th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
• 18th & Eye Public Parking Garage: 1600 Eye St, Bakersfield, CA 93301

The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater offers classic concession options designed for concerts, comedy performances, films, and live events. Guests may find snacks such as popcorn, candy, soft drinks, and grab-and-go refreshments available throughout the venue.²

Alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails, may also be available during select events for guests of legal drinking age. Availability and menu selections can vary depending on the performance.²

The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater opened on December 25, 1930, as part of the Fox West Coast Theatres chain.¹ Designed by noted Los Angeles theater architect S. Charles Lee, the venue originally featured a Spanish Colonial Revival exterior and an “atmospheric” interior intended to resemble an open-air Mediterranean courtyard beneath a star-filled ceiling.¹ The theater survived the 1952 Kern County earthquake and remained structurally intact thanks to its reinforced concrete and steel construction.¹

In 1953, the theater underwent a major redesign led by Fox West Coast executive Charles Skouras, introducing the sleek Art Deco-inspired interior elements still visible today.¹ After closing in 1984, the building faced possible demolition before the Fox Theater Foundation launched restoration efforts in 1994.¹

Since reopening, the theater has welcomed a wide range of live entertainment, including concerts, comedy shows, films, and community performances, continuing a tradition that has defined the venue for decades.