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The Merc: Temecula's Historic Performance Venue

Experience live music, theater, and comedy in Temecula's historic Merc, a cultural hub in Old Town showcasing local talent and rich history.

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The Merc, located in the heart of Old Town Temecula, is a beautifully restored late 19th-century building that serves as an intimate performance venue. Originally a mercantile store, it has transformed over the years into a cultural hub hosting diverse events.

A brief summary to The Merc

  • Wednesday 2 pm-6 pm
  • Thursday 2 pm-9 pm
  • Friday 2 pm-9 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Old Town Temecula Community Theater website for The Merc's event schedule and purchase tickets in advance, as shows often sell out quickly.
  • Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends, as Old Town Temecula can get crowded.
  • Explore Old Town Temecula before or after the show; it's filled with unique shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks.
  • Consider having dinner at one of Old Town Temecula's restaurants before the show; many offer pre-theater dining specials.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Merc is located in the heart of Old Town Temecula, easily accessible on foot from most points within the Old Town area. If you are coming from the Temecula Valley Museum or Sam Hicks Monument Park, walk east along Mercedes Street, then turn right onto Main Street. The Merc will be on your left. From the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, simply walk south along Main Street; The Merc is adjacent to the theater. Free public parking is available in several lots within a few blocks, including the Old Town Parking Garage on Mercedes Street and the 6th Street Parking Lot. Note that parking can be limited, especially during peak hours and event nights.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    If arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft), request to be dropped off at the intersection of Main Street and 6th Street in Old Town Temecula. From there, The Merc is a short walk north on Main Street. A typical ride-share from hotels near the Temecula wineries to Old Town will cost approximately $15 - $25, depending on demand and distance.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Old Town Temecula. Free public parking is available in several lots, including the Old Town Parking Garage on Mercedes Street and the 6th Street Parking Lot. Parking is also available curbside throughout Old Town. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during weekends and events, so arrive early to find a spot. There are also some paid parking lots available from private businesses. Once parked, The Merc is within easy walking distance.

Unlock the Best of The Merc

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Discover more about The Merc

The Merc, formally known as The Mercantile Building, stands as a testament to Temecula's enduring spirit and commitment to preserving its rich heritage. Located on Main Street in the heart of Old Town Temecula, this beautifully restored brick building has witnessed the town's evolution from a humble agricultural community to a thriving cultural destination. Originally constructed in the late 1890s by Phillip Pohlman, The Merc holds the distinction of being the first brick building in Temecula. Pohlman, who won the land in a lottery, used bricks from an abandoned brickyard to construct his general store. The store quickly became a vital part of the community, providing residents with essential goods and serving as a gathering place for locals. Around 1900, Pohlman sold the building to George Burnham, a young clerk who transformed it into G.A. Burnham and Son, a general store that operated for over half a century, until 1952. After the Burnham family's departure, the Mercantile sat empty for a period before being transformed into an auto garage in the late 1950s. Later, it became an antique shop, before the city stepped in to purchase the building in 1998. The City of Temecula recognized the historical significance of The Merc and embarked on a meticulous restoration project, transforming it into a small art gallery and theatre. In 2005, The Merc reopened as an intimate performance venue, becoming an integral part of the Old Town Temecula Community Theater complex. Today, The Merc is a popular entertainment venue that hosts a diverse range of events, including live music performances, theater productions, and art shows. The 48-seat cabaret-style space boasts superb acoustics and a 1901 Steinway Model O grand piano, creating an unforgettable experience for both performers and audiences. The Merc's programming reflects Temecula's eclectic tastes, featuring everything from jazz ensembles and blues bands to country artists and rock tribute acts. Regular events include 'Jazz at the Merc' and comedy nights.

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