Public Events
For more than 40 years, Caltech Public Events has offered students a gateway to cultures and entertainment from around the globe by offering top-flight events—performing arts, science lectures, folk music, chamber music, and much more. Many of the events, which take place at multiple locations on campus, are free and require no tickets, though Caltech students often have access to preferred seating. For those where admission is required, Caltech students pay only $5.
Because of the small number of undergraduates, students have the opportunity to meet some of the speakers and performers in a way that would not be possible at a larger university. Many of the Voices of Vision speakers and other guests—notably Garrison Keillor, Al Franken, Hal Holbrook, Aaron McGruder, Howard Rosenberg, and President Bill Clinton—have met with students at intimate preshow receptions, dinners, and postshow talks.
Series Presented by Caltech Public Events
Performing Arts Series
Each season Caltech Public Events presents performing arts ranging from theater and music to dance and comedy, many of these performances featuring world-renowned artists.
Earnest C. Watson Lectures
Named for the late Earnest C. Watson, who founded the series in 1922, these lectures feature speakers from Caltech and JPL presenting cutting-edge research taking place at Caltech.
Coleman Chamber Music Concerts
The oldest chamber music series in the nation, Coleman celebrates its rich history with a tradition of bringing the finest in chamber music to the community.
Frank Capra Film Series
The free Frank Capra Film Series features films in honor of the director and Caltech alumnus (BS 1918) whose work united popular entertainment and social consciousness.
Live on Stage—Matinees for All Ages
One-hour performing arts matinees entertain audience members of all ages. Suitable for families with children or for adults without kids.
Science Saturdays—Matinees for All Ages
Stunning high-definition films serve as the springboard for lively discussions with Caltech scientists about the science behind the beauty and wonder of the world around us.
Voices of Vision
This series of talks features some of the most creative thinkers of our time—innovators who step outside the box and inspire the exploration of ideas.
Lagerstrom Chamber Concerts
For more than half a century the free Lagerstrom Chamber Music Concerts have offered intimate programs to music lovers from Caltech and the community in the acoustically marvelous and elegant setting of Dabney Lounge.
Student Group Performances
Artistic talent on the Caltech campus is showcased by a wide variety of performing groups: Caltech-Occidental Jazz and Concert Bands, Caltech-Occidental Symphony and Chamber Orchestras, Men's and Women's Glee Clubs, Student Chamber Music Ensembles, and Theater Arts at Caltech.
Caltech Folk Music Society Concerts
Since 1981, the Caltech Folk Music Society has brought performers of acoustic music from around the world to perform at Caltech. The music ranges from bluegrass bands and British Isles music to blues and Nueva Canción.
Special Events
Special lectures, symposia, panel discussions, art exhibits, and other events take place on campus throughout the year. Some of these include the Michelin, DuBridge, and Lauritsen Lectures.