Performances & Events

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Wed September 2nd

Ritchie Forever

An Ode to an American Dreamer

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A vintage-style header image featuring an arrangement of paper and origami roses with decorative gold and teal scrollwork on a black background, alongside a black-and-white era photo of a man in a dark jacket singing passionately while playing an acoustic guitar.

Wed September 2nd

Ritchie Forever

An Ode to an American Dreamer

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Date
Wednesday September 2nd, 2026
Time
7:30PM

Gates open

6:30 pm

Presented by

ArtPower at UC San Diego

Pricing

Tickets: $35–70
UCSD Students: Limited free tickets via SSO

Ticket prices are inclusive of fees.

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Ritchie Forever: An Ode to an American Dreamer is a live multidisciplinary production celebrating the enduring legacy of Ritchie Valens and his profound influence on American music, Chicano identity, and the cultural landscape of Southern California. Led by East Los Angeles’ Las Cafeteras alongside special guests, the production weaves together live music, storytelling, and archival visuals to reimagine Valens’ music and legacy for a new generation.

More than a traditional retrospective concert, Ritchie Forever explores themes of migration, bicultural identity, youth rebellion, romance, and the evolving sound of Southern California. Through contemporary reinterpretations of Valens’ catalog and a collaborative ensemble of musicians and performers, the production honors the pioneering spirit of one of rock & roll’s foundational artists while connecting his story to the multicultural realities of today.

Ritchie Forever continues its journey through Southern California as a communal celebration of memory, heritage, and musical innovation.

The Epstein Family Amphitheater is located at 9480 Innovation Ln, La Jolla, CA 92093.

Take the Trolley: The amphitheater is located next to the Blue Line Trolley, UCSD Central Campus Station. For more information about the trolley, visit the MTS website >

From the North: Take I-5 south and exit La Jolla Village Drive. Use the right lanes to turn right onto La Jolla Village Drive and take the first right onto Villa La Jolla Drive.

From the South: Take I-5 north and exit La Jolla Village Drive. Use the left lanes to turn left onto La Jolla Village Drive and take the first right onto Villa La Jolla Drive.

The closest parking structure is Gilman Parking Structure. UC San Diego requires parking permits 7 days a week. Permits can be purchased at permit machines or through the Parkmobile App. Visit UC San Diego Transportation for information on where to buy your permit, and costs.

Accessible Seating

Wheelchair-accessible seating is available in all seating areas for patrons in wheelchairs and their companions. 

 

If you need additional information andor assistance, please contact amphitheater@ucsd.edu.

You may bring in empty refillable water bottles, small personal bags (16” x 16 “ x 8”). All bags are subject to search by security officers. We encourage that you dress in layers and for those who have tickets to the General Lawn Section to wear shoes without heels.

Additional prohibited items include: strollers, large backpacks, flags, tobacco products, alcohol, cans, bottles, ice chests, picnic baskets, lawn furniture, weapons of any kind, umbrellas, pets, hula hoops, musical instruments, laser pointers, bicycles, and skateboards.  Cameras with a detachable lens of any kind and professional recording devices are not allowed, including GoPros. Scooters, skateboards, roller skates, and other recreational wheeled equipment are not permitted at the Epstein Family Amphitheater. UC San Diego is a smoke-free campus. 

If you have questions, please contact amphitheater@ucsd.edu.

For the safety and comfort of all, you may not bring lawn chairs or furniture. The lawn is quite steep and not safe for lawn chairs. You can bring in personal seat cushions, blankets, or seating, as long as they fit your personal space. We encourage the same for the stone bench seating areas on both General Admission and reserved seating shows.

Snack and drink will be available for purchase in the venue. Please note: Food vendors are cashless.

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9500 Gilman Drive MC 0029 La Jolla, CA 92093-0029

AMPHITHEATER@UCSD.EDU

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