MEET THE (818)

The San Fernando Valley is more than just a spot on the map—it’s home, history, and heart. For Adam Mays, a longtime 818 local and founder of Mays Music Management, that deep-rooted connection has inspired his “Love Letter to the Valley,” an all-day celebration of local music, art, food, and community hosted at the iconic Valley Relics Museum.

The roots of the event go back decades. “We’ve always worked in the music industry,” shares Adam. “We started out throwing backyard parties, then working at The Cobalt with Dave. Over time, we began asking ourselves: how do we make this a business while still helping the community?”

Ten years ago, they put on a similar event at the original Valley Relics Museum in Chatsworth. Now, after the isolation of COVID-19, they’ve returned to that same spirit, pulling together bands, vendors, and friends from years of connections to create a Valley-centric experience. “It’s a personal triumph for the team,” Adam explains. “I’ve been able to call on everyone I’ve ever worked with and bring together the best of the best.”

The Love Letter to the Valley isn’t just about the stage. It’s about highlighting the community’s talent in every form. From local artists and mom-and-pop shops to roller derby and skate teams and vintage vendors, the lineup reflects the Valley’s diversity.  Businesses and organizations include 11:11 Art Collective, The Valley Spiritual Plug, Yes Baby! Vintage, The Midnight Hour, 818 Brewing, and SFV Roller Derby. And, that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

Charity is built into the event as well. Working with School on Wheels, they will collect and distribute backpacks and school supplies to kids in need. Families are encouraged to come early for face painting, lunch, and kid-friendly activities, while adults can enjoy beer from event partner 818 Brewing. Kids under 12 get in free.

One of the driving forces behind the event is a desire to keep music alive in the Valley, especially in areas where live venues are scarce.  The goal was to highlight the west side of the Valley, where places like Chatsworth have very few music spots. They’ve been building that momentum with regular shows at 818 Brewing Company and by partnering with The Groovy, which recently shifted its programming to focus on local talent. Acts like JRAE, Braemore, Lucia Fuscano, Sammy Ruiz, and Pollywog Crew, a Beastie Boys tribute band, are among the performers set to take the stage on 8i8 Day.

The response from local businesses, artists, and residents has been overwhelmingly positive. “Every time we tell someone, ‘This is for the Valley,’ they’re all in. We couldn’t do this without our partners. Everyone’s showing as much love to the Valley as we want to show.”

That spirit of collaboration is what makes the Love Letter to the Valley more than just another festival. It’s a reflection of the relationships, resilience, and creativity that have always been part of Valley life.

“We speak in music,” Adam said. “Instead of sending someone a mixtape, we put on an event like this. That’s how we show our love for the San Fernando Valley.”

For more information, follow @818dayatvalleyrelics and @maysmusicmanagement.