As concerts around Los Angeles get more and more expensive, there is a way for Angelenos to watch the L.A. Philharmonic play live for free – and it’s easier than you might think!
The Los Angeles Philharmonic, the city’s orchestra, performs regularly at the Hollywood Bowl throughout the year, and spends time during the day rehearsing for its various shows in the space throughout the summer. Many people don’t know that the Hollywood Bowl is actually a public park, owned and operated by the LA Department of Parks and Recreation, which means it’s open to the public during the summer, typically daily from 8 am to 3 pm.
This means that guests can stop by during the day and sit in on ongoing daily rehearsals, have a picnic in the park, and visit the museum on site – completely for free.
But be warned – this means the rehearsal won’t be as seamless as a live show, can stop and start often, and can be rescheduled at the last minute.
When does the L.A. Philharmonic practice at the Hollywood Bowl?
According to the Hollywood Bowl FAQ website, Philharmonic rehearsals typically happen on Tuesdays and Thursdays. As these are working rehearsals, guests are asked to use their inside voices and sit in specific areas, typically on the left side of the Bowl, behind the boxes. You can call 323-850-2000 on Mondays to confirm the rehearsal days.
Parking on site is also free during daytime hours.
