Positioned right where the San Joaquin Valley meets the Sierra Nevada, Bakersfield is a thriving community that wears its unique heritage on its sleeve. While one of California’s largest cities today, Bakersfield’s local character is heavily influenced by its agricultural background. Horse shows are popular, with many filling the calendar, and locals love to take advantage of the outlying landscape in off-road vehicles. Festivals throughout the year celebrate the city’s diverse cultural influences, including Native American, Basque, Greek, and Scottish events.

Musical traditions run deep in Bakersfield, and largely define the community.