Elks Lodge 1538 Santa Maria: More Than A Meeting Place
Elks Lodge 1538 Santa Maria: What Makes It Enduring?
Santa Maria Elks Lodge #1538 is located at 1309 N Bradley Rd, Santa Maria, CA 93454, and serves as the historic home of the World Famous Santa Maria Style BBQ and the annual Elks Rodeo and Parade. Chartered in 1927, this Benevolent and Protective Order lodge has operated for over 97 years as a community-focused nonprofit offering dining, outdoor seating, live music, a full-featured RV park, and regular charitable events.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Lodge Number | #1538 |
| Address | 1309 N Bradley Rd, Santa Maria, CA 93454 |
| Phone | 922-1538 |
| lodge@elks1538.org | |
| Lodge Meetings | Thursdays at 7:30PM |
| Hours (Mon) | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Founded | 1927 (chartered) |
| RV Park | Full-featured: Water, Electric 50A, Sewer, Wi-Fi, Pets allowed |
Historical Roots and Community Mission
Chartered in 1927, Santa Maria Elks Lodge #1538 has been a proud part of Elkdom for nearly a century, embedding itself in the social and charitable fabric of Santa Maria and the broader Central Coast. The lodge's enduring presence reflects the Elks National Foundation's core mission: supporting youth programs, veterans' services, scholarships, and local nonprofits through member-driven volunteerism.
Over 97 years, the lodge has evolved from a fraternal meeting hall into a community hub that hosts dining events, live music, family gatherings, and the iconic Santa Maria Style BBQ, which draws visitors regionally for its distinctive grilling tradition.
Dining, Events, and Signature Experiences
The lodge is best known for its World Famous Santa Maria Style BBQ, a regional culinary hallmark that uses tri-tip beef, garbanzo beans, sourdough bread, and pinquito beans grilled over red oak wood. This signature event anchors the lodge's cultural identity and attracts both members and non-members.
- Friday Night "Cook Your Own" dinners open to members and their guests, with a $10 coverage charge after 8 PM
- Outdoor seating and live music on select evenings, creating a welcoming social space
- Annual Elks Rodeo and Parade, a multi-generational community tradition tied to the lodge's brand
- Private events and gatherings supported by the lodge's facilities and volunteer committees
Members must purchase at least a salad plate for Fridaynight cook-your-own events; plate splitting is not allowed.
RV Park and Traveler Amenities
Santa Maria Elks Lodge #1538 operates a full-featured RV park on-site, catering to travelers, rodeo attendees, and long-term visitors along Highway 101.
- Water hookups with 50-amp electric service
- Full sewer connections for RVs
- Complimentary Wi-Fi for guests
- Cable TV access at sites
- Pets allowed under lodge policies
The RV park is positioned near Bradley Road and College Avenue, with straightforward access from Highway 101 via Donovan and Bradley.
Membership and Civic Engagement
Membership in Elks Lodge #1538 is open to individuals who share the organization's values of charity, truth, and justice. The lodge maintains active committees that coordinate scholarships, veteran support, youth sports, and community service projects.
Prospective members can access membership forms online through the lodge's official website, where they find details on membership requirements, dues, and participation expectations.
Why Elks Lodge 1538 Endures
The lodge's longevity stems from its values-driven mission, consistent community programming, and iconic culinary and cultural events that tie local identity to the Elks tradition. By investing in youth scholarships, veteran support, and family-friendly gatherings, the lodge maintains relevance across generations while preserving its fraternal heritage.
"Together Elks Achieve More! #WeAre1538Strong"
This motto captures the lodge's collaborative spirit and its commitment to measurable community impact through service, fellowship, and tradition.
What are the most common questions about Elks Lodge 1538 Santa Maria More Than A Meeting Place?
How do I contact Elks Lodge 1538 in Santa Maria?
Contact the lodge at 922-1538 or email lodge@elks1538.org; the Lodge Manager, Julian, can be reached at 922-1538 x 103 for program and event inquiries.
When are lodge meetings held?
Lodge meetings occur Thursdays at 7:30 PM at 1309 N Bradley Rd, Santa Maria, CA 93454.
What are the operating hours?
On Monday, the lodge is open 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Thursday hours include the live meeting slot beginning at 7:30 PM, with dining and events often extending later.
Is the RV park open to non-members?
The RV park serves travelers and event attendees, including rodeo participants, with full hookups and amenities; specific rate structures and membership preferences are confirmed by contacting the lodge directly.
Can guests attend dining events?
Yes; Friday Night "Cook Your Own" and other dining events are open to members and their guests, with a $10 coverage charge after 8 PM and a requirement to purchase at least a salad plate.
