Wedding & Event Venue in Bakersfield, California

The Willows at CALM Zoo

A Beautiful Outdoor Venue for Weddings & Special Events

Located at CALM Zoo in Bakersfield, The Willows offers a scenic setting for weddings, baby showers, corporate events, private parties, and unforgettable celebrations in Kern County.

Up to 225+ Guests Outdoor Venue CALM Zoo Location Bakersfield & Kern County
A Bakersfield Wedding Venue With Character

A natural setting for unforgettable weddings and events

If you are searching for a wedding venue in Bakersfield or a unique event venue in Kern County, The Willows offers a setting that feels elegant, open, and distinctly local.

The venue combines natural scenery, flexible event use, and the unique backdrop of the California Living Museum to create an experience that feels far more memorable than a standard banquet space.

The Willows at CALM is a wedding venue in Bakersfield, California serving Kern County and surrounding Central Valley communities.

Venue Highlights
  • Outdoor ceremony and reception space
  • Ideal for weddings and special events
  • Scenic setting on the CALM Zoo grounds
  • Serving Kern County and surrounding areas
  • Scenic Private Train Experience
As seen on The Knot wedding venue As seen on WeddingWire wedding venue
225+

Guest Capacity

Host intimate gatherings or larger celebrations in a beautiful outdoor setting.

1

Truly Unique Venue

Located at CALM Zoo for a Bakersfield venue experience that stands apart.

5+

Types of Events

Weddings, showers, private parties, fundraisers, and corporate gatherings.

Outdoor wedding ceremony at The Willows at CALM in Bakersfield California
Wedding Venue in Bakersfield
Wedding Venue Bakersfield

A ceremony and reception setting that feels memorable from the start

Couples looking for an outdoor wedding venue in Bakersfield want more than a room. They want atmosphere, scenery, and a place that feels like an experience. That is exactly where The Willows stands out.

From ceremony setup to reception flow and photo opportunities, the venue is built for celebrations that feel personal, elevated, and distinctly different from a traditional indoor hall.

  • Outdoor ceremony setting with scenic backdrop
  • Reception-ready venue for meaningful celebrations
  • Ideal for wedding photos and guest experience
  • A unique Kern County location couples remember
Event Venue Bakersfield

More than a wedding venue

The Willows is also a flexible event venue in Bakersfield for life celebrations, showers, fundraisers, community gatherings, and corporate functions.

That flexibility makes the venue a strong fit for families, organizations, and businesses looking for something more welcoming and memorable than a standard rental hall.

Private Celebrations

Baby showers, anniversaries, birthdays, and celebrations of life in a scenic setting.

Corporate Events

Retreats, holiday gatherings, networking events, and nonprofit fundraisers.

Outdoor special event venue at The Willows in Bakersfield California
Events at The Willows
See The Venue

Watch The Willows experience

Take a closer look at the atmosphere, event setup, and natural setting that make The Willows at CALM a unique place for weddings and special events in Bakersfield.

A quick look at weddings and events at The Willows

This video gives couples, families, and event planners a better sense of the venue layout, ambiance, and overall experience before scheduling a tour.

Located at CALM Zoo

A uniquely Bakersfield venue experience

The Willows is located on the grounds of the California Living Museum, giving guests a setting that feels scenic, local, and unlike any standard event space in Bakersfield.

Venue Details

The Willows at CALM

Address:
10500 Alfred Harrell Hwy
Bakersfield, CA 93306

Best For:
Weddings, receptions, showers, fundraisers, private parties, and corporate events

Service Area:
Bakersfield, Kern County, and surrounding Central California communities

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know

Helpful answers about events, weddings, and booking at The Willows at CALM.

The Willows at CALM is a scenic event venue located on the grounds of CALM Zoo in Bakersfield, California, offering a peaceful and unique setting for weddings, celebrations, and special events.

The Willows is ideal for weddings, receptions, corporate events, fundraisers, baby showers, private parties, celebrations of life, and other special occasions.

The Willows can host up to 225+ guests. Larger events may be accommodated on the surrounding CALM grounds depending on the event.

Yes. Outside vendors are welcome as long as they meet venue guidelines. You may also bring a licensed caterer or choose the in-house option through At Your Service Catering.

Yes, alcohol is permitted at events. However, it may not be sold to guests. The venue includes designated areas for alcohol service.

To request pricing, ask questions, or schedule a tour, please visit our contact page or email our events team at erthorn@kern.org.
Meet The Team

Your Event Experience Starts Here

Our team is dedicated to creating seamless, memorable experiences. From planning to execution, you’ll be supported every step of the way.

Janeyle Wedding Venue Coordinator

Janeyle — Wedding / Venue Coordinator

Janeyle is a wedding coordinator at The Willows at CALM who is passionate about creating meaningful, memorable celebrations. She takes pride in supporting couples throughout the planning process, ensuring they feel confident, celebrated, and at ease on their wedding day.

With strong attention to detail and thoughtful coordination, Janeyle helps each event flow seamlessly so couples and their guests can fully enjoy the experience.


Sophia Wedding Coordinator

Sophia — Wedding Coordinator

Sophia is a wedding coordinator at The Willows at CALM who is passionate about helping couples bring their vision to life. With a calm, organized approach and attention to detail, she ensures each celebration runs seamlessly from start to finish.

Known for her warm personality and steady presence, Sophia works behind the scenes so couples can relax, stay present, and fully enjoy their wedding day.

Schedule A Tour

See why The Willows is one of Bakersfield’s most distinctive wedding and event venues

Whether you are planning a wedding, shower, fundraiser, or private event, the venue is best experienced in person.