For decades, the Golden Bear was the heartbeat of Orange County’s rock ‘n’ roll scene. From the 1960s through the mid-1980s, the intimate Huntington Beach venue welcomed legends like Janis Joplin, Neil Young, and Patti Smith. Even comedians like Steve Martin graced its stage, and local bands like No Doubt played pivotal early gigs there. But in 1986, the beloved venue was shuttered for redevelopment, leaving a void that venues like the Coach House and Grove of Anaheim have since attempted to fill—though never entirely.
Now, plans are underway to resurrect the Golden Bear, not as the rustic beachside dive it once was but as part of a cutting-edge entertainment district. The new venue will be a centerpiece of OCVibe, a 100-acre dining and entertainment complex set to rise in Anaheim, near the Honda Center. While it won’t open until 2028, fans of live music and Orange County history have reason to celebrate as this revival promises to rekindle the magic of the Golden Bear and elevate the local music ecosystem.
A Nostalgic Vision for the Future
OCVibe’s developers are breathing life into a vibrant entertainment hub, where the Golden Bear will join two additional concert venues, alongside the existing Honda Center. The plan is to create a “music ecosystem,” catering to artists and audiences alike.
“We’re building more than just an entertainment district,” says Tracee Larocca, Chief Marketing Officer of OC Sports and Entertainment. “This will be a hub for culture and connected communities. The Golden Bear, with its rich history, emerged naturally as a symbol of the music and diversity that defines Orange County.”
The complex will include a range of venues, from the 350-seat Golden Bear to a midsize theater and a larger concert hall, with capacities spanning thousands. According to Bill Dwight, OCVibe’s senior director of programming, this tiered structure is designed to accommodate artists at every stage of their careers. “The Golden Bear will serve as a launchpad for local and up-and-coming bands. As these artists grow, they can return to play larger venues within the same district. It’s a win for artists, audiences, and the music industry.”
Honoring the Golden Bear’s Legacy
To ensure the new Golden Bear captures the spirit of the original, developers have partnered with Carole Babiracki-Kirby, who co-owned the venue from 1974 to 1986. Babiracki-Kirby has provided invaluable insight, from curating the club’s design to sharing its history.
“She’s been instrumental in helping us honor the Golden Bear’s identity while giving it a modern twist,” says Larocca. “Her blessing was crucial to this project.”
For Babiracki-Kirby, the loss of the original Golden Bear still stings. “Huntington Beach should never have torn it down. It was iconic,” she reflects. However, she’s optimistic about its revival. “I’m happy for anyone who wants to bring it back, as long as they do it right.”
Supporting Local Businesses and Beyond
The Golden Bear’s return is more than just a win for music lovers. By drawing crowds to OCVibe, it will generate significant economic ripple effects across Orange County. Restaurants, shops, and nearby businesses will benefit from increased foot traffic. Professionals such as a Mission Viejo slip-and-fall lawyer could also find new opportunities to serve clients, as more visitors mean a greater need for safety and legal assistance in bustling venues.
The revitalized Golden Bear will also support local talent, offering a stage for emerging artists while fostering connections within the community. This synergy between entertainment, culture, and commerce reflects a broader commitment to making OCVibe a vibrant destination.
A Multi-Phase Development
The first phase of OCVibe is set to debut in 2026, featuring a market hall, restaurants, an office building, and an outdoor urban park. By 2028, the South Plaza will open, adding a hotel, retail spaces, and the Golden Bear itself. The final phase, expected around 2030, will introduce residential units, completing the district’s transformation.
Beyond its venues, OCVibe’s design emphasizes open spaces and community engagement. Larocca envisions it as more than a destination: “Whether you’re attending a concert, grabbing dinner, or just enjoying the parks, the experience will feel dynamic and welcoming.”
Looking Ahead
The Golden Bear’s revival is a testament to the enduring power of music and nostalgia. By blending its historic charm with a forward-looking vision, OCVibe aims to create a space where past, present, and future harmoniously coexist. For Orange County, the return of this iconic venue is not just a nod to its cultural roots but a promise of exciting possibilities to come.
As the Golden Bear prepares to shine once more, its impact will extend far beyond its stage—creating opportunities for local businesses, artists, and the broader community to thrive in its glow.
