Attending a concert in Los Angeles—or anywhere in the world—is all about relaxing and enjoying the music. However, as with most events, a little planning can go a long way. Read on for some helpful tips and essential things to know in order to make the most of your Candlelight concert experience. From planning your route to optional research, these ensure you’re ready to fully embrace the magic of the evening.
1. Plan your journey
The secret’s been out for what feels like forever—L.A. traffic is anything but smooth sailing. No matter how you travel—by bus, bike, or even tricycle—life has a way of throwing obstacles your way that can cause delays. Save yourself the hassle and plan your journey in advance. You’ll be glad you did, as it gives you the opportunity to arrive early (doors open up to 45 minutes before the start time) and fully soak in the atmosphere of the venue.
2. Dress code
Candlelight isn’t here to police your wardrobe—there’s no strict dress code for these spectacular concerts. Whether you prefer puffy ballgowns, towering top hats (just be mindful of those behind you), stacks of bangles, or quirky eyewear, all styles are welcome. That said, most attendees lean toward formal casual attire, keeping comfort in mind as the top priority.
3. The program
This one might seem obvious to some, but to avoid any disappointment, it’s worth double-checking the tentative program. While the listed songs aren’t guaranteed, they provide a glimpse into the curated selection of top hits and fan favorites. After all, it’s impossible to cater to every taste—from niche, intent listeners to casual music enthusiasts. You can also confirm the type of musicians performing, whether it’s a skilled ensemble or a gifted jazz band.
4. Learn more about the venue
Every building has its own story to tell, and Candlelight venues are no exception, often brimming with fascinating history and unique elements. While the musicians provide insights into the compositions—sharing anecdotes, accolades, and genre-defining moments—learning about the venue beforehand can deepen your immersion in the experience. Plus, you’ll gain some interesting tidbits to share at your next dinner party or casual conversation.
Take the Skirball Cultural Center, for example, one of Candlelight’s stunning spaces. Beyond its beautiful performance setting, it’s also home to an extraordinary eight-thousand-square-foot wooden ark—something you definitely don’t see every day!
5. What to expect at the venue
Each venue is unique, so what you can expect may vary. Some venues might offer drinks for purchase, while others may feature a more elevated stage. One thing, however, always stays the same: the mesmerizing sea of candles. Typically, the musicians will let you know when photographs are allowed during the concert. As for singing along—it’s usually best to read the room before putting those pipes to use!
Now that you’ve gone through some helpful tips and things to know about Candlelight, all that’s left is to find the best route, look up your venue, and wait with excitement for the big day to arrive. And here’s an extra tip: the Candlelight concert series also offers the perfect gift! With a Candlelight gift card, you’ll have all your gift-giving dilemmas solved.