Major Sponsors

New Times / New Times Music Awards

Supporting Sponsors

Major In-Kind Sponsors

Supporting In-Kind Sponsors

Venue Partners

The New Times Music Awards is finally upon us. Pick up a New Times this week for a handy pullout guide that will keep you informed of all the events and performers Thursday through Sunday, Aug. 19-22, as well as provide a map of Mission Plaza for our free daylong music festival on Saturday, Aug. 21. All told, we'll have five separate shows at five different venues over four days-nearly 20 hours of live performances by the best local musicians and songwriters on the Central Coast. Check the SCHEDULE link for a detailed look at this year's schedule.

This year's contest had a whopping 374 entries by 154 different acts comprised of hundreds of various musicians. Our team of judges spent countless hours listening to the entries and working to reach a consensus. It wasn't easy, but they had fun. The judges were, like last year, amazed at the breadth of talent. During this series of events, the first, second, and third place awards will be given to the finalists. We invite you to see your friends and neighbors enjoy their moment in the limelight.

Like last year, proceeds from the cover charge at the events at Downtown Brew, Frog and Peach, Native Lounge, and Steynberg Gallery will benefit Arts Obispo's Mini Grant program, which provides small $500 grants to individual artists. We hope you'll come out and support this worthy program and cheer your favorite acts on. We also hope you join us at the Mission Plaza this Saturday for our free event (bring lowback chairs or blankets; no outside alcohol allowed). Bring the family and spend the day, enjoying local wine and beer. Bring a picnic or grab some food from one of the vendors.

Come celebrate our amazing Central Coast music scene!