Fridays at the Lake: Crestline’s Weekly Market, Music & Magic at Lake Gregory

The Market at Lake Gregory in Crestline, CA, has returned for its fourth year as a favorite Friday night tradition—firmly nicknamed the unofficial “weekend kickoff” by locals. Every Friday from Memorial Day through Labor Day (with an occasional extension into September), locals and visitors alike gather at the Lake Gregory South Shore Pavilion from 4 pm to 8 pm for an evening filled with crafts, conversation, music, and refreshment.
🎼 A Community Concert Series
Part market, part outdoor concert, each week brings a fresh soundtrack to the mountains. The stage has featured acts like High D Boys, Middle Aged Dad Bods, Hilary Watson, Little Bear Valley Blues and many more.
🍸 BearClaw Saloon: Beer & Wine on Tap
No market is complete without a proper bar, and the BearClaw Saloon delivers. Perched on the lakeside deck, they pull local craft beers like Lake Arrowhead Flatlander Ale and seasonal IPAs, plus a rotating wine selection from Sutter Home. It’s relaxing to sip a crisp Pinot Grigio or a Full‑bodied Merlot while browsing stalls or catching the band.
🍽 Food Vendors: Flavor for Every Appetite
The food scene here is a highlight, with vendors that echo the community’s creativity:
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Buddy’s BBQ — Known for world‑famous nachos, pulled pork sandwiches, and savory smoked ribs.
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Artisan Woodfired Pizza — Crafting fresh pizzas in their portable oven, available lot‑side or beach‑side during Sunday markets
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Beignet Rounds — From Marketspread listings, a sweet treat to round out any Friday evening
Each vendor cleverly balances familiar comfort and artisan flair, making it easy to stroll past several and do a culinary tasting journey.
🛠 Artisan Vendors: Hearts & Hands in Every Craft
The array of artisan stalls is impressive—30 to 40+ vendors on a typical night . A few standouts include:
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Wears The Mountain - Souvenirs and home goods that celebrate the San Bernardino Mountains, our home!
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Earth Elements – Locally crafted apothecary goods: candles, bath soaks, and natural self-care that smells like fresh forest trails.
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Crochet Happy – Colorful crochet hats, blankets, and playful amigurumi—each piece radiates warmth and charm.
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Ruya Mountain Flower Teas – Unique flowering tea blends that hint at the region’s wildflower beauty.
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Rusty Nail Heritage Woodworks – Hand‑hewn cutting boards, coasters, and artful wood creations—perfect for gifting or taking home a slice of foothill craftsmanship.
🌄 Why We Love It
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Community vibe: Families with kids and pets, couples, solo strollers—all sharing in local culture.
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Scenic setting: Sunlight fades behind trees, giving way to lantern-lit tables and music drifting across the lake.
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Tradition-building: It’s not just a market; it’s a shared ritual marking the start of the weekend.
📝 Final Pour
The Market at Lake Gregory does more than just sell—it celebrates. Every component, from handcrafted treasures and smoky barbecue to craft brews and heartfelt harmonies, builds a vibrant weekly tradition. If you’re in the San Bernardino mountains, make this Friday evening your ritual: grab a glass, grab a friend, and remember why community still matters.
Stay tuned, stay local, and see you at the South Shore pavilion!
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Seasonal, Southern California, Things to Do, Travel