Fall 2026

From chart-topping rock bands like Styx to chamber music, the Sunset Center remains a premier venue as the building enters its 100th year. Photo: Kenneth McCain F or a century, Sunset Center has been part of the fabric of Carmel. Generations of school- children have taken the stage beneath its lights— whether with a squeaky violin performance or a heartfelt holiday singalong. Acclaimed performers, including Van Morrison and Lyle Lovett, have enter- tained audiences in the same space. The Carmel Bach Festival, Carmel Music Society, Chamber Music Monterey Bay and Monterey Symphony provide robust classical programming throughout the year. Originally built in 1926 as Sunset School, the campus has evolved into a premier performing arts venue and home to the Center for Photographic Art. Through its Classroom Connections program, visiting artists spend time with local students before students experience a professional perfor- mance°often for the first time. “What amazes me is the variety of what you can see here,” says Executive Director Beth Bowman. “You can come and see the local kids perform on stage, but you also have nationally known touring artists who love performing here because it’s such an intimate and historic space.” As Sunset Center begins its second century, Bowman hopes it will continue to bring people together through the arts. “We’re here for the community, and we never want to lose sight of that,” she says. Centennial events take place throughout the year, including a free celebration on Sunday, October 25, from 1-4pm. Sunset Cultural Center is located on San Carlos Street at Ninth Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea. For more information, call 831/620-2048 or visit www.sunsetcenter.org . Sunset Center Celebrates 100 Years of Community and Culture B Y B R E T T WI L BUR SHORT CUTS AT LARGE 98 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • F A L L 2 0 2 6