MADERA, CA – What began in 2011 as a modest vision to showcase local wines in a vintage 1928 farmhouse has evolved into the Central Valley’s premier outdoor entertainment destination. This year, ApCal Rock’n Ranch officially celebrates its 15th anniversary, marking a decade and a half of growth, resilience, and world-class live music.
The journey started in December 2009 when owner Darren Schmall pitched the idea for “Appellation: California” (ApCal) to a property owner along Highway 99. Originally designed as a hub for Fresno and Madera County wines, the venue quickly found its heartbeat through the community’s love for live performance.
A Legacy of Evolution
ApCal’s history is a story of listening to its fans. From acoustic Sundays under a 150-year-old oak tree to the addition of local craft beers and food trucks, the venue’s footprint grew alongside its popularity.
“The fans told us this was the perfect place for weekend concerts, and we listened,” says Schmall. “It’s gone from my daughters selling homemade fruit pies for college tuition to hosting national touring stars on one of the largest permanent stages in the Valley.”
Rising Above Challenges
The 15-year milestone is even more significant given the hurdles faced in 2020. Amidst the global pandemic and encroaching commercial development at the original site, Schmall relocated the entire operation to its current home: a sprawling 40 acre ranch — formerly known only for the “Raisin Hell Ranch” haunted attractions.
Today, ApCal Rock’n Ranch features:
A Massive 40’ x 40’ Stage: Hosting everything from Classic Rock and Country to Latin, EDM, and R&B with concert quality sound and lighting.
Community-First Atmosphere: Serving as a hub for car shows, movie nights, pet adoptions, and charity fundraisers.
Economic Impact: Partnering with local breweries, food trucks and vendors to keep Central Valley dollars within the community.
An Award-Winning Anniversary
The 15th-anniversary celebration follows a banner year for the venue. In 2025, ApCal Rock’n Ranch was honored as the Madera County Small Business of the Year by the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), a testament to its contribution to the local economy and culture.
“We’ve built more than just a stage; we’ve built a destination,” Schmall says. “We invite the entire Central Valley to join us under the stars this season to celebrate 15 years of memories.”
About ApCal Rock’n Ranch
Located in Madera, California, ApCal Rock’n Ranch is the Central Valley’s premier outdoor concert and event venue. Set in a lush 3-acre amphitheater, the venue offers a diverse lineup of live music, local food, and community events in a family-friendly atmosphere.
For more information on the 2026 Concert Season, visit www.apcalrocknranch.com or follow us on Facebook/ApCal Rock’n Ranch or Instagram @apcalrocknranch
