Although amphitheaters such as the Hollywood Bowl, the Greek Theater and the Ford get the lion's share of adulation when it comes to glorifying bandshells in the Southland, there's one amphitheater you might not be aware of that deserves your attention. Built in the Verdugo Mountains on parkland deeded by local Mexican-American War veteran O.J. Stough and opened in 1935 for an Easter sunrise service, the Starlight Bowl boasts great sightlines, a remarkably robust sound system and a big, wide lawn seating area for picnickers, making it one of L.A.'s true gems among concert venues. Booking everything from graduations and Fourth of July fireworks shows to concerts by artists ranging from Poncho Sanchez to Jefferson Starship, the Starlight offers a majestic yet intimate setting that feels far removed from the city — especially when you see the rattlesnake warnings posted up near the lawn. Hey, sometimes snakes want to rock out, too.

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