Where to see free concerts in L.A.

Silver Lake’s legit little music venue offers up some of the best local music in the city every Monday night… for free. Check out L.A. bands that are about to make it big (acts like Fitz & the Tantrums, Superhumanoids and even Local Natives once graced the residency stage) without spending a dime—well, except on maybe a beer, or a round for the folks onstage.

It’s free music every Monday when up-and-coming local bands call the Echo stage home for a one-month stint, honing their stage presence and giving various opening acts a chance at the spotlight as well. If you’re worried a Monday night will fill up to capacity, you can RSVP on the Echo website for a better shot at entry. When a band is on its third or fourth Monday and killing it, this is a pretty convenient way to make sure you’re in on the action.

Head to Historic Filipinotown on Mondays for free residencies at one of the best venues on the Eastside, the Bootleg. Theater shows happen in the Gallery, and music in the Theater (in back) and the Bar (in front). Residencies take place in the bar, with high tables and stools in the back, a bar with great craft brews and a high, exposed beam roof with great acoustics.

Stay out late on a school night with this series of free Monday night concerts in Bardot’s sumptuous courtyard lounge. Though the sets are short, the price is certainly right, as is the lineup curated by resident DJ and KCRW tastemaker Chris Douridas; expect a mix of local bands and touring acts. Past performers include Miguel, Eleanor Friedberger, Odesza and Father John Misty.