Why is Poinsettia Park not on the list of concert locations this year?

Poinsettia Community Park is not part of this year’s lineup because its layout doesn’t work well with some of the additional security precautions being put in place. For example, it would be more difficult to establish a perimeter fence with controlled entrances at Poinsettia Park because of where the parking lots and other park amenities are located.

What new security precautions will I notice?

All major events in Carlsbad have security precautions in place. Some are noticeable, and others are behind the scenes. The biggest change the public will notice at this summer’s TGIF concerts is a fence around the perimeter of the concert area and screening at the entrances.

How will the security screening work?

Security staff at the concert entrances will search bags and use handheld wands to screen for weapons and items that are not allowed in city parks. All concert attendees will be screened, except small children and babies. Reasonable accommodations will be made for people with disabilities.

What can I bring?

You can bring everything you would normally bring to the concerts, like bottle openers and utensils. We will be screening for guns and other weapons. If there are questionable items, police officers onsite will work with the security personnel to determine how to proceed. Learn more about what to bring and what to leave at home.

How much extra time should I allow to get through security?

We will set up multiple screening stations at each concert, so we don’t anticipate significant delays. However, because this is a new process for the concerts, we encourage you to arrive a little earlier than normal just in case. We’ll monitor how it goes at each concert and make adjustments accordingly. Our goal is to enhance security while maintaining the community feel as much as possible.

Will I be turned away if the concert is full? 

The city is placing perimeter fencing around each concert site as part of the security precautions this year. We will make the perimeter large enough to accommodate our typical crowd sizes, so it is unlikely that the concerts will reach capacity. In the unlikely event that the concerts reach capacity and we can’t admit new attendees, we will post highly visible signs to let people know before they approach the park. 

Why is the city putting new security measures in place?

Public safety is the city’s top priority. The types of security measures you’ll see are now considered best practice for any large public gathering.

View the municipal code about TGIF security measures.

Will other city events have increased security?

All city events already have security plans in place. The city has police and fire personnel who are specially trained to assess the risk of large public gatherings. Based on these assessments, the city updates event security plans as needed. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to event security and details aren’t shared with the public because doing so could reduce their effectiveness.

Where should I park?

Stagecoach Community Park concerts have free parking across the street at La Costa Canyon High School. Other venues will offer a free shuttle from a remote parking lot. See the details.

Are pets allowed?

No, please leave your furry and feathered friends at home. Dog parks at Alga Norte and Poinsettia parks will close at 3 p.m. on concert days. Service animals as defined by Title II and III of Americans with Disabilities Act are welcome.

Can space be reserved on the field?

You are welcome to bring blankets and chairs to set up for a group starting at 4 p.m. We request that you only take the space that you need. Seating is limited.

How can I get my band to play at TGIF?

If you have a band and are interested in performing at the Schulman Auditorium or in a future TGIF season, please complete the Artist Interest Form. For general questions about TGIF Concerts in the Parks, contact arts@carlsbadca.gov.