Citrus Heights Kicks Off Spring Concert Series

Free open-air concerts at the Marketplace at Birdcage start April 3rd

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Citrus Heights is launching a new spring concert series called the 'Backyard Bash', featuring free open-air performances at the Marketplace at Birdcage. The series kicks off on April 3rd and will run for three Friday evenings, showcasing local bands like Aces, Department of Rock, and Hack Attack.

Why it matters

The 'Backyard Bash' replaces the previously held 'Brews in the 'Burbs' event, which had become too expensive to host. This shift towards more accessible, community-focused entertainment reflects a broader industry trend as cities and business districts seek to provide vibrant public events without placing financial burdens on attendees.

The details

The 'Backyard Bash' series is financially supported by sponsorships from Republic Services and State Assembly Member Josh Hoover, allowing for free admission. Beyond the live music, the events will feature local food trucks and a beer and wine garden hosted by the Rotary Club of Citrus Heights, creating a holistic community experience.

  • The 'Backyard Bash' series will be held on April 3rd, April 17th, and May 1st.
  • The events will run from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM each night.

The players

Sunrise MarketPlace

The business district organizing the 'Backyard Bash' concert series.

Katihlynn Carpenter

The executive director of Sunrise MarketPlace.

Republic Services

A sponsor of the 'Backyard Bash' concert series.

Josh Hoover

A state assembly member who is sponsoring the 'Backyard Bash' concert series.

Rotary Club of Citrus Heights

The organization hosting the beer and wine garden at the 'Backyard Bash' events.

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What they’re saying

“The 'Backyard Bash' series emerges following the cancellation of the annual 'Brews in the 'Burbs' event, which had become 'extremely expensive' due to the costs associated with hosting dozens of breweries and requiring an entry fee.”

— Katihlynn Carpenter, Executive Director, Sunrise MarketPlace (newsy-today.com)

The takeaway

The 'Backyard Bash' concert series exemplifies a broader trend towards more accessible and community-focused public events, as cities and business districts seek to provide vibrant entertainment options without placing financial burdens on attendees. This shift away from large-scale, expensive festivals towards smaller, sponsorship-funded gatherings is likely to become increasingly prevalent as municipalities aim to create inclusive spaces for residents.