From City Lights to Local Spotlights: Discovering the Vibrant Arts & Culture Scene in Redding, CA
If you're making the move from a bustling city like San Francisco to the quieter, cozier streets of Redding, California — you might be wondering what kind of arts and culture await you. While Redding may not have the nonstop nightlife of a major metropolis, what it does offer is a deeply rooted, community-driven creative scene full of heart, history, and hidden gems.
Welcome to Redding: Small Town, Big Talent
Redding has grown into a cultural hub that’s brimming with opportunity — especially if you know where to look. From historic theaters and music festivals to vibrant community events and family-friendly arts programming, this Northern California town has something to offer every curious creative soul.
In a recent episode of Rooted in Redding, host Krista dives into what makes Redding's art scene so special with her guest Tara, a San Francisco transplant who’s become a cornerstone of Redding’s creative community. Tara wears many hats: producer at the historic Cascade Theatre, event coordinator with Viva Downtown, dance instructor, and mom. Her experience offers a unique lens into just how alive Redding’s culture really is.
Cascade Theatre: The Heart of Downtown Arts
Tara’s artistic journey in Redding began at the Cascade Theatre — a stunning Art Deco building that serves as both a cultural monument and a working performance space. With seating for 950, the theater hosts musicals, concerts, community events, school productions, and special showcases like Cascade Christmas — a local tradition that's been running for over 20 years.
In addition to in-house productions, Cascade is a rental venue used by schools, dance studios, and nonprofits, making it a true community centerpiece.
"Getting involved in the theater saved me from not leaving Redding. I met my husband here, my best friends, and built a career. It's a big family of artists," Tara shared.
Arts & Events for All Ages
Whether you’re raising an artsy kid or just love a good night out, Redding offers something for everyone:
First Fridays Downtown: Monthly events where businesses stay open late, offering art, live music, and community vibes.
Sundial Film Festival: Celebrating local and national filmmakers, complete with screenings, panels, and afterparties.
Viva Downtown Festivals: From the Beer & Wine Festival to Taste of Redding, local food and drink culture gets its moment to shine.
Live Summer Concerts on the Lawn at the Civic Auditorium: Affordable outdoor concerts that capture that magical "festival under the stars" feel.
Youth Programs That Inspire
For families with kids interested in the arts, Redding has fantastic programs:
Redding Performing Arts Center: Offers theater productions, music lessons, dance classes, and even ventriloquism workshops.
Axiom Theater: Hosts summer camps for different age groups and performs original youth musicals.
Riverfront Playhouse: Offers opportunities for kids and adults alike to get involved in community theater.
Local Schools with Arts Focus: Enterprise High has a standout dance program, Shasta High shines with musical theater, and Redding School of the Arts (K–8) integrates arts into academics.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Redding's Creative Core
With a public market on the horizon and a growing number of brick-and-mortar shops downtown, the next 5–10 years in Redding are poised to be an exciting time for arts and culture. More venues, more events, and even more opportunities to connect through creativity.
Tara put it best:
"There’s something magical about being able to walk downtown and run into people you know, see a show, or take your kid to a class. You don’t get that kind of connection in big cities.”
Want to Plug In?
Finding local events is easier than you think:
The Redding Chamber of Commerce Event Calendar
Follow local theaters and festivals on social media
Facebook Events (really!)
Whether you’re moving to Redding or simply visiting, don’t overlook the incredible talent, passion, and community spirit that lives here. The curtain may be smaller, but the stories on Redding's stages shine just as bright.
