House Show

House shows bring music into living rooms, garages and backyards around Davis, run by residents and local arts collectives. Singer-songwriters and acoustic sets suit these spaces well, though full bands and DJs play them too, and a bill might pair Davis acts with a touring musician passing through. It's one of the most intimate ways to hear music in town, and between sets there's usually a chance to interact with the musicians. Many house concert venues are one-offs or would rather not have their address posted. The location is usually easy to find: check the event page, the flyer, or the host's website or Instagram. For some shows, it comes with an RSVP or a quick message. That one extra step means the crowd is made up of people who came for the music. These shows keep going when everyone does their part. Arrive and head out when the host says, keep the sidewalk talk quiet, park so neighbors can still get out of their driveways, and follow any rules on drinks and smoking. Bring cash in case there's a donation jar. Good guests get invited back, and the House Show Etiquette Guide covers the rest.