
Local Customs & Etiquette in Bakersfield, California, United States
1. Kern County Fair
Annual fair showcasing local agriculture, livestock, and entertainment; a great opportunity to experience rural Bakersfield culture.
- Local Agriculture: Learn about the diverse crops grown in Kern County, including almonds, grapes, and cotton.
- Community Spirit: Join in the friendly atmosphere and bond with locals over shared interests.
- Entertainment Variety: Enjoy music, rides, food, and exhibits tailored to a broad range of tastes.
2. Bucket O' Nuts Stand
Iconic roadside stand serving fresh nuts and friendly conversation; a must-visit for travelers on Highway 99.
- Roadside Attraction: Experience a piece of Bakersfield's history while enjoying locally sourced nuts.
- Local Hospitality: Connect with the friendly owners and learn about their nut business.
- Unique Snack Options: Discover a variety of flavors, such as cinnamon sugar, garlic, or jalapeƱo.
3. Bakersfield Farmers Market
Weekly market offering fresh produce, arts and crafts, and local food; a vibrant gathering place for the community.
- Fresh Produce: Purchase seasonal fruits and vegetables directly from local farmers.
- Local Artisans: Support small businesses and discover handmade crafts unique to Bakersfield.
- Community Gathering: Meet locals, enjoy live music, and taste delicious street food.
4. Bucket List Brewing Co.
Popular brewery offering tours, tastings, and unique beers; a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.
- Local Brews: Savor craft beers inspired by Bakersfield's rich agricultural history.
- Community Atmosphere: Connect with fellow beer enthusiasts and friendly staff.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Learn about the brewing process and meet the team behind the beers.
5. Kern County Museum
Historic museum showcasing Bakersfield's oil boom history and rural life; a great way to understand the area's past.
- Oil Rig Exhibit: Get an up-close look at an operating model oil rig and learn about oil extraction methods.
- Rural Life Display: Explore exhibits depicting life on a farm or ranch in early Kern County.
- Hands-on Activities: Participate in interactive activities, such as milking a life-size cow or panning for gold.
6. California Oil Museum
Museum dedicated to the history of oil and its impact on California; an informative and educational experience.
- Oil Displays: Learn about the discovery, production, and distribution of oil in Kern County.
- Interactive Exhibits: Explore interactive displays, such as a drilling rig simulator or a working service station.
- Oil Boom History: Gain insight into the significant role oil has played in Bakersfield's development.
7. Casa de Shenandoah
Historic Spanish-style estate offering tours and events; a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of early oil tycoons.
- Spanish Architecture: Marvel at the stunning architecture, gardens, and art collections from the early 20th century.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the influential oil tycoons who built the estate and their impact on Bakersfield's development.
- Tour Guides: Engage with knowledgeable guides who bring the estate's history to life.
8. Buena Vista Museum of Natural History
Museum showcasing native flora and fauna of Kern County; a great place to learn about the local ecosystem.
- Local Wildlife Exhibits: Discover native animals, such as desert tortoises, rattlesnakes, and mountain lions.
- Fossil Displays: Explore fossils dating back millions of years, including dinosaur bones found in Kern County.
- Interactive Activities: Participate in hands-on activities, such as fossil digging or animal tracking.
9. Bucket Swap Meet & Car Show
Monthly gathering of car enthusiasts showcasing vintage vehicles and swap meet items; a great place for automotive lovers.
- Vintage Cars: Admire beautifully restored classic cars from various eras.
- Swap Meet Items: Discover unique finds, such as car parts, tools, or collectibles.
- Community Spirit: Connect with fellow automotive enthusiasts and learn about their passion for cars.
10. The Hillcrest Farmers Market
Weekly market offering fresh produce, arts and crafts, and live music; a lively gathering place for the community.
- Fresh Produce: Purchase seasonal fruits and vegetables directly from local farmers.
- Local Artisans: Support small businesses and discover handmade crafts unique to Bakersfield.
- Community Gathering: Meet locals, enjoy live music, and taste delicious street food.
11. Kern County Livestock & Farming Expo
Annual event showcasing livestock, agriculture, and rural lifestyle; a great opportunity to experience rural Kern County culture.
- Livestock Competitions: Watch cattle shows, sheep shearing demonstrations, and horse events.
- Agriculture Exhibits: Explore exhibits showcasing various aspects of farming, such as irrigation systems or tractors.
- Community Spirit: Join in the friendly atmosphere and bond with locals over shared interests.
12. Farm to Fork Dinner Series
Series of dinners featuring locally sourced ingredients and live music; a unique dining experience showcasing Bakersfield's agricultural bounty.
- Locally Sourced Ingredients: Enjoy dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients from Kern County farms.
- Live Music: Relax and enjoy live music performances while dining under the stars.
- Community Dining: Connect with fellow foodies and learn about local culinary traditions.
13. Bakersfield Renaissance Faire
Annual event featuring medieval-themed performances, vendors, and activities; a fun escape into a bygone era.
- Performances: Watch jousting tournaments, comedy shows, and music performances.
- Vendors: Discover unique finds, such as handmade armor, potions, or medieval garb.
- Interactive Activities: Participate in archery, fencing, or dance workshops.
14. Kern County Starz Gymnastics & All-Star Cheer
Gym offering gymnastics and cheerleading classes for all ages; a great way to get active in Bakersfield.
- Athletic Activities: Learn gymnastics, tumbling, or cheerleading skills under the guidance of experienced coaches.
- Community Spirit: Connect with fellow athletes and join a supportive community.
- Variety of Classes: Find classes suitable for all ages, skill levels, and interests.
15. Bakersfield Ice Sports Center
Ice rink offering public skating sessions, ice hockey games, and figure skating lessons; a fun way to cool off in Bakersfield.
- Ice Skating Activities: Learn to ice skate, play ice hockey, or enjoy public skating sessions.
- Community Spirit: Connect with fellow ice enthusiasts and join a supportive community.
- Cool Down Activity: Enjoy an indoor activity that keeps you cool in hot Bakersfield summers.