
Freight & Salvage
A beloved Berkeley institution for intimate folk, acoustic, and world music performances with exceptional sound.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better seats

Freight & Salvage
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better seats

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved Berkeley institution for intimate folk, acoustic, and world music performances with exceptional sound.
"An absolutely beautiful intimate venue with fantastic staff and excellent acoustics."

🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Popular shows sell out fast! Check the Freight & Salvage calendar and secure your tickets early.
🪑 Arrive Early for Seats
No reserved seating means lines form early. Aim to arrive an hour before showtime for good spots.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Intimate Live Music Experience
Main Performance Hall
Experience world-class folk, acoustic, and world music in a cozy setting with excellent acoustics.

Diverse Global Performers
Main Performance Hall
Discover a wide array of international artists, from traditional folk to contemporary global sounds.

Community Music Classes
Learning Center
Engage with music through adult classes and workshops, fostering a love for learning instruments.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Acts
Arrive Early for Best Seats
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Popular shows sell out fast! Check the Freight & Salvage calendar and secure your tickets early.
🪑 Arrive Early for Seats
No reserved seating means lines form early. Aim to arrive an hour before showtime for good spots.
Group adult guitar lessons?
🎶 Great Acoustics
Enjoy clear sound, especially from the center sections. Perfect for appreciating nuanced performances.
🚗 Convenient Parking
The adjacent parking structure makes getting to and from shows hassle-free.
Cheap guitar lessons for adults?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Popular shows sell out fast! Check the Freight & Salvage calendar and secure your tickets early.
🪑 Arrive Early for Seats
No reserved seating means lines form early. Aim to arrive an hour before showtime for good spots.
🎶 Great Acoustics
Enjoy clear sound, especially from the center sections. Perfect for appreciating nuanced performances.
🚗 Convenient Parking
The adjacent parking structure makes getting to and from shows hassle-free.
🍻 Delicious Concessions
Enjoy healthier food and drink options than typical venues.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Freight & Salvage for its intimate atmosphere, excellent acoustics, and diverse booking of folk and world music artists. The friendly staff and convenient location with nearby parking are also frequently highlighted positives. Some patrons note that ticket prices for concessions can be a bit high, and the general admission seating requires arriving early for the best spots.
"I went for the Choir Choir Choir show, wow, what an outstanding adventure in song and music.
The staff was so helpful, and very professional, especially the lady at the box office named Manisha, who was so kind to guide me and my date to the doors. I can't believe most of all these folks are volunteers, how incredible!
The food and drinks were delicious, so much healthier than usual concession booths.
This was such a fun experience, I hope to attend more events here in the future."
Nerissa Maria Ward
"An amazing venue with good acoustics and views of the stage. We caught the Anda Union show last night which paired wonderfully with this space. The proximity of the stage and musicians made the event more intimate and enjoyable. The parking structure next door was very convenient."
Lawrence Chinn
"It is an absolutely beautiful intimate venue. The staff was fantastic. The acoustics are excellent. $8 for a 12oz beer. If there's someone you enjoy that is booked to play here, don't hesitate."
Daniel Curran Jr
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Freight & Salvage is located in Downtown Berkeley. It's easily accessible by BART (Downtown Berkeley station is a short walk away) and various bus lines. Many visitors also find the nearby parking structure very convenient.
Yes, there's a multi-story parking garage conveniently located next door to the venue, making parking straightforward for patrons.
Absolutely! The Downtown Berkeley BART station is within walking distance, and several AC Transit bus lines also serve the area, making public transport a great option.
The venue is generally accessible. It's recommended to contact the box office directly to discuss specific accessibility needs or arrangements for your visit.
Taking BART from San Francisco directly to the Downtown Berkeley station is a popular and efficient method. Alternatively, ride-sharing services are readily available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Freight & Salvage website, or in person at the box office. It's highly recommended to buy in advance for popular shows.
No, Freight & Salvage operates on a general admission basis. This means seating is first-come, first-served, so arriving early is advised for the best spots.
The box office hours can vary, but they are typically open on performance days a few hours before the show starts. It's best to check their website or call ahead for specific hours.
Refund and exchange policies usually depend on the specific event and how far in advance you request the change. It's best to review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the box office directly.
While not always available, keep an eye on their website or social media for potential promotions or discount codes. Membership programs might also offer benefits.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
The venue is known for its intimate and friendly atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy live music. It's a cultural jewel that fosters a strong connection between artists and the audience.
Freight & Salvage primarily features folk, acoustic, and world music. They host a diverse range of artists, from local talent to internationally acclaimed musicians.
Yes, they offer a selection of delicious food and drinks, often noted as being healthier than typical venue concessions.
The acoustics are excellent, particularly in the center sections of the venue, ensuring a high-quality listening experience for all attendees.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted. They have concessions available for purchase inside the venue.
🎫 🎸 Music Education
Yes, Freight & Salvage hosts a variety of in-person music classes and workshops for adults, covering instruments like guitar and more.
You can find details about their music classes, schedules, and registration on the 'Learn to Play' section of the official Freight & Salvage website.
Many of the classes are designed for various skill levels, including beginners. It's best to check the specific class descriptions for details on prerequisites.
While guitar is a common offering, they often have classes for other instruments as well. Check their 'Classes' page for the most up-to-date schedule and instrument offerings.
The cost of classes varies depending on the length and type of workshop. Information on pricing is available on their website when you view the class details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider looking for performances by artists known for engaging with diverse audiences or those with a more traditional folk sound that might appeal to a broader age range. The music classes offered by Freight & Salvage could also be a fantastic way for older children or teens to explore learning an instrument in a supportive community environment.
🎶 Music Enthusiasts & Folk Fans
Don't miss the opportunity to explore their diverse calendar of events. Whether you're interested in traditional bluegrass, contemporary singer-songwriters, or vibrant international sounds, you're likely to find something that resonates. The community vibe and the chance to be close to the performers make every show a memorable experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Freight & Salvage Experience: More Than Just a Venue
Beyond the performances, Freight & Salvage is also dedicated to music education. They offer a range of adult music classes and workshops, providing opportunities for community members to learn instruments and deepen their musical knowledge. This commitment to fostering musical talent and appreciation extends their impact beyond just ticketed events, solidifying their role as a vital cultural hub.
Visitors often highlight the friendly and professional staff, including dedicated volunteers, who contribute to the welcoming atmosphere. The availability of delicious and healthier concession options further enhances the overall experience, making it a comfortable and enjoyable outing from start to finish.
Navigating Tickets and Seating at Freight & Salvage
When it comes to seating, Freight & Salvage operates on a general admission basis. This means there are no reserved seats, and the best strategy for snagging a prime viewing location is to arrive early. Doors typically open an hour before the show begins, and it's common for patrons to start lining up even earlier, particularly for highly anticipated performances. This system encourages a communal feel, where attendees often chat while waiting, adding to the venue's charm.
For those concerned about ticket issues or specific seating arrangements, contacting the Freight & Salvage box office directly is always recommended. They can provide the most accurate information regarding policies on refunds, exchanges, and any specific accommodations that might be needed.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit