The Golden Triangle of Americana Music in Northern California
The Golden Triangle: A Vibrant Music Scene
Jim Fox
3/9/20251 min read


The Golden Triangle: A Vibrant Music Scene
This "Golden Triangle" encompasses the interconnected live music scenes of Placerville, Auburn, and Folsom, with a connection to Coloma/Lotus, all along the American River corridor. It's a testament to the region's rich cultural tapestry and the enduring power of music.
Placerville:
The Green Room Social Club: A central hub for live music, fostering a community atmosphere.
A lively downtown scene with numerous venues offering diverse musical styles.
The Golden Road Gathering: An annual festival in May, now in its third year, showcasing regional talent at the Placerville fairgrounds. Prior there was the Hangtown Music Festival which had a 9 year run host by Railroad Earth.
Auburn:
Ain't Necessarily Dead Festival": An annual event organized by the Auburn Parks and Recreation Department, celebrating the vitality of live music. Keep Smiling Promotions: A local promoter bringing diverse acts to the area, utilizing the historic Odd Fellows Lodge (nicknamed the "Foothill Fillmore") as a key venue.
Folsom:
The Harris Center for the Arts: A major venue attracting national and international acts.
Folsom Live series: A popular summertime concert series. The Gaslight Co.: A local spot featuring live music, including open mic nights. The Powerhouse Pub: Known for its Blues on Sundays and live entertainment throughout the week. A strong Johnny Cash theme bicycle art trail project, reinforcing an Americana music scene, reflecting the city's connection to the legendary musician.
Coloma/Lotus:
Marco's: A venue with a rich history of live music outdoor venue, now located in a historic building on Lotus Rd next to Henningsen Lotus Park, and the owner is involved with the Golden Road Gathering Music Festival. Troublemakers Beed Garden recently opened and provides the community with a beautiful gather place for seasonal music.
Overall:
This "Golden Triangle" is a dynamic and evolving music scene, with a mix of established venues, annual festivals, and dedicated local promoters.
It's deeply connected to the region's history and culture, reflecting the spirit of the Gold Rush era and beyond.