Mad Caddies return to their Santa Barbara County roots for Sept. 4 concert in Solvang
By Santa Ynez Valley Star Staff · Fri Aug 28 2026
Internationally touring ska-punk favorites bring three decades of music home at Solvang Festival Theater
Ska-punk favorites Mad Caddies are coming home to Santa Barbara County for a special live performance at Solvang Festival Theater on Friday, Sept. 4 at 7:30 p.m., bringing their unmistakable mix of ska, punk, reggae, rock and horn-driven energy to the outdoor stage.
For local fans, the concert offers a rare opportunity to catch a band with deep Central Coast roots in the community where their story began.
Formed by a group of high-school friends in the Santa Barbara County wine country in 1995, Mad Caddies developed a sound that refused to stay neatly within the boundaries of any one genre.
Blending the energy of punk and ska with reggae, jazz, and rock influences, the band built a devoted international following and a reputation for exuberant, party-like live performances.
More than three decades later, Mad Caddies remain a fixture of the international ska and punk scene, touring around the world while continuing to draw generations of fans to their unmistakably energetic live shows.
On Sept. 4, that journey brings them back to Solvang.
“There is something particularly special about welcoming a band with such strong local roots back to the Festival Theater stage,” said Chantel Green, executive director for Solvang Theaterfest. “Mad Caddies have taken music that began right here in our community to audiences around the world. We’re excited to give longtime fans — and people who may be discovering them for the first time — the chance to experience that energy in such a unique outdoor setting.”
Fans can expect a lively night drawing from a catalog that stretches back to the band’s early releases, including "Quality Soft Core," "Duck and Cover," and "Rock the Plank," through later albums like "Keep It Going," "Dirty Rice," and "Punk Rocksteady."
With its open-air setting in the heart of Solvang, the approximately 700-seat Solvang Festival Theater offers an unusually intimate opportunity to see a band accustomed to touring stages around the world.
Tickets are on sale now, and advance purchase is strongly encouraged.
For tickets and information, go to solvangtheaterfest.org/show-details/madcaddies
Tickets may also be purchased through the Solvang Theaterfest Box Office at 805-686-1789 ext. 0.
The Mad Caddies performances kicks off a fun lineup at the venue for September, with couple of notable shows.
On Sept. 11, the theater plays host to comedian Dennis Regan live under the stars. Known for his quick wit, relatable storytelling, and brilliantly funny takes on everyday life, Dennis has been entertaining audiences for decades with appearances on late-night talk shows as well as specials on Comedy Central and Showtime. His laid-back style, sharp observations, and effortless delivery have made him a favorite on stages across the country.
Opening for Regan is SYV local comedian Owen Andersen & Bangs Out!, bringing high-energy improv, spontaneous comedy, and big laughs to kick off an unforgettable night of live comedy in Solvang.
Proceeds from this special event will support the incredible community work of Solvang Rotary Club and Solvang Theaterfest. Through scholarships, youth programs, local initiatives, community support, and charitable outreach, Solvang Rotary continues to make a lasting impact throughout the Santa Ynez Valley while helping keep arts and entertainment thriving at the theater.
On Sept. 26, country music fans can enjoy "Nashville Nights," magical night of music and stories by award-winning Nashville songwriters, plus live and silent auctions, raffle prizes, and much more in a show to benefit Solvang Friendship House! Roundup Ticket includes general admission only, reserved seating, BBQ not included. Event will go on rain or shine. No refunds. No outside food or alcohol allowed in theater. Bags will be checked at entrance.
Limited tickets available due to increased popularity and generous Sponsors who receive tickets with sponsorship. You may call Friendship House to get on a waiting list for tickets that may be released.
Roundup tickets available visit nashvillenights.org/ to purchase.
To see what the Solvang Festival Theater has to offer, go to solvangtheaterfest.org.