Village Music: A Big Bear Lake Fixture
Discover the best Big Bear music store! Village Music has been around for nearly 60 years. In the time it’s been around, the shop has changed owners a handful of times. It even moved locations. Its present location, on Village Drive in Big Bear Lake, draws a steady crowd of people, all seeking different things.
The shop offers an array of goods, catering largely to musicians but also music lovers. With thousands of LPs, vintage vinyl, 45s, and CDs, the shop carries a wide array of music from all genres and caters to all ages and music tastes. Jonsey, the current owner and operator, took some time to speak with me about what it is that makes Village Music so special.
As well as carrying the reputation of a music shop with a wide range of instruments, music, apparel, and art, Village Music has been a place that musicians know and love. “Over the years we’ve had guys like Eddie Van Halen come through (the shop). Steve Miller. Jeff Lynne (ELO). Eric Burton of The Animals, I’ve played with him,” says Jonsey. Having been a Big Bear Lake resident since 1983, he knew early on that he would find a home at Village Music. “When I first moved here, I walked in and introduced myself to the owner. I told him we’d be best friends. 40 years later, we still talk to this day.”
That connection with the community is one thing that stands out at Village Music. As soon as you walk in, you’ll see a stage in the front of the store. Over the years, Village Music has played host to several CD release parties, as well as performances by bands and traveling acts. “Depending on who comes into town, we might jump on stage and go for it,” says Jonsey. As a musician himself, he’s had the opportunity to play with different groups and even opened up for Blue Oyster Cult.
The eclectic nature of Village Music is what draws visitors and locals, and throughout the store, you’ll find various guitars, some of them signed, as well as vintage music magazines, leather jackets, pedals and amps, and even jewelry. Stop in on a weekend and you’ll be sure to be perusing the shop with a steady crowd of people.
Village Music is open every day of the week, from 11 am – 6 pm during the week and from 11 am – 8 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. The shop is located just down the road from our iconic Adventure Mountain Hostel, where we offer affordable rates, a free pancake breakfast during your stay, and nightly activities for guests.
Want to see more of the music scene in Big Bear Lake? Watch this video!
Don’t forget to sign up for our Traveler’s Club at ITH! This free program saves you money on all future bookings at all ITH properties.
