
Local Traditions & Customs in Bakersfield, California, United States
1. Kern County Starvation Peak Run
Annual race held in Kern Canyon to honor the pioneers who faced hardships during the California Gold Rush.
- Challenging Terrain: Offers a rugged and scenic trail run, with varying elevations.
- Historical Significance: Celebrates the spirit of perseverance demonstrated by early settlers.
- Community Bonding: Attracts runners from all over, fostering camaraderie and local pride.
2. Bucket O' Nuts Festival
Celebration of the area's farming culture with a variety of activities, food, and music.
- Local Delicacies: Offers unique nut-based dishes that reflect Bakersfield's agricultural heritage.
- Community Engagement: Encourages participation from local businesses, organizations, and residents.
- Education and Fun: Provides educational workshops about agriculture and family-friendly activities.
3. Bucket O' Blood Drive-in Theatre
One of the last operating drive-ins in California featuring double features and a unique atmosphere.
- Retro Experience: Provides an authentic, nostalgic experience from the golden age of drive-in movies.
- Double Features: Allows visitors to enjoy two films for one price.
- Outdoor Setting: Enables viewers to watch movies under the stars in a picturesque setting.
4. Kern County Fair
Annual fair showcasing agriculture, livestock, music, and entertainment.
- Agricultural Showcase: Highlights Kern County's diverse agricultural industry through exhibits and competitions.
- Community Gathering: Brings together locals, families, and visitors for a fun-filled experience.
- Entertainment Variety: Offers concerts, rides, and other forms of entertainment throughout the fairgrounds.
5. California Oil Museum
Museum dedicated to the history and impact of oil in Kern County and California.
- Industrial History: Illuminates the role that oil has played in shaping California's economy and culture.
- Interactive Exhibits: Provides hands-on experiences that educate visitors about the oil industry.
- Preservation Efforts: Helps preserve artifacts and stories related to California's oil heritage.
6. Pioneer Mother Statue
Monument honoring the pioneer women who settled Kern County.
- Historical Significance: Honors the contributions of early settler women to Bakersfield's development.
- Community Pride: Serves as a symbol of local heritage and enduring spirit.
- Visually Striking: Features an impressive, intricately carved statue that is easily recognizable.
7. California Living Museum (CALM)
A nature and wildlife preserve showcasing native California habitats and animals.
- Education: Provides visitors with an understanding of California's diverse ecosystems.
- Conservation Efforts: Contributes to the conservation and rehabilitation of endangered species.
- Interactive Experiences: Offers guided tours, animal encounters, and hands-on activities for visitors.
8. Branding Iron Steakhouse
A popular local steakhouse with a western theme that serves mouthwatering ribeyes.
- Authentic Western Atmosphere: Provides a genuine, Old West-inspired dining experience.
- Local Cuisine: Serves high-quality steaks and other dishes that reflect the flavors of Bakersfield.
- Friendly Service: Offers warm, welcoming service that makes visitors feel like part of the community.
9. Kern River Parkway State Recreation Area
A scenic park along the Kern River offering hiking, biking, and picnicking opportunities.
- Natural Beauty: Features breathtaking views of the Kern River and surrounding mountains.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides various recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.
- Wildlife Observation: Offers chances to spot local wildlife, such as deer and birds.
10. Kern County Museum
A museum showcasing the history of Kern County through exhibits, artifacts, and photographs.
- Historical Education: Provides visitors with an understanding of Bakersfield's past and development.
- Artifact Preservation: Helps preserve important artifacts that tell the story of Kern County.
- Interactive Displays: Offers interactive exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages.
11. McMurtrie-Tanaga House
A historic adobe house showcasing life in Bakersfield during the late 1800s.
- Historical Preservation: Protects a significant piece of Bakersfield's architectural history.
- Interior Tours: Allows visitors to explore the beautifully restored interior of the house.
- Local Culture: Provides insights into the lifestyle and customs of Bakersfield's early settlers.
12. Bucket O' Beans Baseball Game
A Minor League Baseball game with a unique team name and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Community Spirit: Brings together locals, families, and visitors for an enjoyable sports experience.
- Affordable Entertainment: Offers a fun, affordable outing for people of all ages.
- Team Mascots: Features entertaining mascots and promotions that engage fans throughout the game.
13. Buena Vista Museum of Natural History
A museum focusing on geology, paleontology, and Native American history in Kern County.
- Scientific Education: Provides visitors with an understanding of the natural world and its history.
- Artifact Preservation: Helps preserve important artifacts that tell the story of Kern County's past.
- Hands-On Learning: Offers interactive exhibits and activities for visitors to engage with.
14. Bakersfield Farmers Market
A weekly market offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts.
- Fresh Produce: Provides visitors with access to fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and other products.
- Artisanal Goods: Offers unique, handcrafted items from local artisans.
- Community Gathering: Brings together locals, families, and visitors for a friendly, festive atmosphere.
15. Kern County Cowboy Symposium
An annual event celebrating the cowboy culture and history of Kern County.
- Cultural Education: Provides visitors with an understanding of the cowboy lifestyle and its impact on Kern County.
- Entertainment: Offers rodeo events, concerts, and other performances throughout the symposium.
- Community Engagement: Encourages participation from locals, cowboy enthusiasts, and visitors alike.