South Bay Music Connection Rising Stars at Project Barley

If your idea of a good Tuesday involves tacos, a cold craft beer and someone strumming a guitar a few feet away, Redondo Beach has a standing answer. On the second Tuesday of every month, Project Barley turns its Taco Tuesday into a showcase for local talent, teaming up with South Bay Music Connection for a series called Rising Stars.

When: Second Tuesday of every month (next up: Tuesday, October 13, 2026) Where: Project Barley, 136 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA Cost: Not listed by the source, so check with the venue Follow: @projectbarleyredondobeach and @sbmconnect on social media

What to expect

Rising Stars is built around musicians who are still on their way up. South Bay Music Connection, a community group that champions local players, books performers from across the South Bay, so the sound changes from month to month. Some nights lean toward quiet acoustic sets, others get louder and more energetic. The venue describes the atmosphere as laid-back and family-friendly, which makes it an easy pick for a midweek night out rather than a late-night commitment.

Project Barley sits on the International Boardwalk with a view of the harbor, and the food leans on its signature tacos. It is the kind of place where you can order a plate, find a seat and discover a new favorite artist without paying a big-venue cover.

"Project Barley is the perfect venue to showcase our Rising Stars," said Kimberly Koffler, President of South Bay Music Connection, when the partnership was announced.

Planning your night

The published listing gives the date pattern but not a set start time or a lineup, so the performers are announced closer to each show. Both the venue and South Bay Music Connection post who is playing on their social accounts, and that is the best place to confirm times before you go. Since this is a recurring series, a miss is not the end of the world: the next one lands a month later.

Parking and foot traffic around the boardwalk can get busy near sunset, so give yourself a little extra time. If you are looking for things happening in Los Angeles County beyond the usual downtown and Westside circuit, this South Bay stop is a good reason to head toward the coast.

Why it matters

Small-room music nights like this are where local scenes actually grow. Many of the artists who play a monthly showcase are performing for a handful of friends and curious diners, and the format gives them a regular, low-pressure stage. For the audience, it is a cheap, friendly way to spend a Tuesday. Keep it in mind when you are scanning for things to do in Los Angeles on a weeknight, and browse more in our arts and culture section.