Smack in the middle of Marin County lies the "hidden one," also known as the tiny hamlet of Nicasio. There's a white-steepled church, a schoolhouse, a handful of homes … and one rocking roadhouse. The World War II-era Rancho Nicasio shakes, rattles and rolls most Sunday afternoons with the BBQ on the Lawn concert series. The bar and restaurant's sprawling backyard gets decked out with a dance floor, picnic tables, chairs, and load-em'-up barbecue vendors serving everything from piping-hot corn on the cob to sweet-sauce drenched ribs, thick brisket sandwiches, and plenty of beverages to wash it all down. Bring a blanket, grab some grub, and take in the tunes: bluegrass, country, and even Hawaiian bands are in the lineup.
Rancho Nicasio, 1 Old Rancheria Rd., Nicasio; 415-662-2219. For directions and ticket prices, visit the Web site. Gates open at 3 p.m., and the music starts at 4 p.m. Picnic tables can be reserved for parties of eight or more. Lawn chairs are first come, first served. You may bring a low-backed beach chair or a blanket. Children under 3 admitted for free. No dogs.