Bay area festivals and fairs are known for their vibrant charm and mystique delights. From art, craft, food, activities to some crazy whacky fun and strange offerings, these are your spring to fall package. Events and activities beginning from June until October end, these festivals are the most sought after ones for family fun.
Some of the bay areas festivals and fairs:
Summer is all about outdoor fun, festivals and family adventures. So we have a compilation for people looking for fun and frolic in the Bay area. These include:
1- San Francisco International LGBTQ Film Festival:
In theaters across the Bay Area, this festival is the largest one around. The San Francisco International LGBTQ Film Festival has been running since 1977 and draws around 60,000 people every year. This is an annual event and it screens films from all genres. Giving an all inclusive experience to all its viewers.
2- Festival of the Sea:
This year’s theme is “High Tech on the High Seas: the Evolution of Maritime Culture and Technology.” Learn about engines and technical details while enjoying the traditional music from live performances. Family fun and activities include knot tying, rigging, caulking, steam bending and rope-making demonstrations; a small boat launch, kids craft stations and more. This is a free event
3- Phono Del Sol Music and Food Festival
An affordable fest, admission to Phono Del Sol starts at only $29. This is a single-day event in Potrero Del Sol Park and is enjoyed by many people from far and wide. Find alternative bands Thee Oh Sees and The Coathangers along with enchanting local artists. There are some really exotic and mouthwatering food items at the trucks between the sets. So get ready with your sunnies and sun block for its going to be hot and happening out here.
4- Fillmore Jazz Festival
The Fillmore Jazz Festival will be held in San Francisco as a free and all day fun event. This one is jam-packed with over 100k visitors, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy experiencing art, food, crafts, and unlimited liquor amid rocking Jazz music. This festival is a great way to spend the Fourth of July weekend grooving with family.
5- Outside Lands
Outside Lands, one of the most sought after music festivals in the Bay Area, will take place August 2nd week. Known for its grand performances by bands like Radiohead this event is a thrilling one for music lovers. This years highlights include performances by the Gorillaz, Metallica, and The Who during the three day affair. Single day and weekend passes are available and some deals too.
6- Oakland Art and Soul Festival
And it is the end of the summer vacation fun as this one is on 3rd weekend of August. The streets of Oakland will be full of dancers and musicians in this grand family friendly affair. Many of the performers are Bay Area natives, giving locals a true sense of pride and entertainment with their amazing shows. Tickets can be bought at the gate during the event.
7- Alameda County Fair
Head to this fair for some much needed kettle corn and family fun. This is a summer staple in this region and known for its exquisite carnival rides, concerts and fried confections. Check out for guests in plain white tee’s and sugar ray later performing at stage. Tickets can be purchased from their website.
8- Pescadero Arts & Fun Festival:
This is an authentic festival which promotes local artists and raises funds to benefit local youth programs. There is live entertainment, a kids korral, hand crafted exquisite goods, country cooking and some artistic line ups. A free event In Aug 1-3 week. There is music, tradition, art, children’s activities and more for entire family to relax and enjoy
9- San Francisco Chinatown Autumn Moon Festival
Come and enjoy two wonderful days of non-stop entertainment, food, shopping, dragon parades, cultural events and some kids fun too. A free fest sponsored by the Chinatown Merchants Association. In sept 4th week, enjoy this amazing show
10- Redwood City Salsa Festival:
The 10th annual festival with a plethora of music, including salsa, Latin, jazz and reggae. See the amateur and professional salsa performer compete and fall in love with their moves and grooves. With amazing food and kids play areas, this is a free event
11- Benicia Waterfront Festival:
A mesmerizing and picturesque waterfront celebration with live music, food, kids fun activity and more during the last weekend of July to continue through August.
12- Berkeley Kite Festival:
Come to Berkeley Marina for a quirky event with options to fly a kite, make a kite, watch kite flying competitions and live performances. Unwind with family and play in the kids zone and catch candy from the sky. This is a well attended event in the Bay area.
13- Fremont Festival:
The 34th annual Fremont Festival of the Arts for music, food, artists and a kids city filled with performers and hands on fun. A free event at Fremont sure to charm the family crowd.
[Read: Books to take to camping trip]
14- Gilroy Garlic Festival:
Welcome to the fragrant annual garlic festival. Food, fun and frolic for all ages. Including games, pyrotechnic cooking, three stages of live entertainment and the world famous garlic ice cream to keep you busy the whole weekend. Don’t miss the garlic feasts, as they are relished and cherished by many
15- Annual Watsonville Strawberry Festival:
This fun filled and rich celebration will pamper your taste buds like no where, with its strawberry delights, non-stop entertainment, whacky contests and lots of activities for entire family.
Check campnavigator resources for more insights into summer camps and special programs, to make your year and enriching one.
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By Minu Manisha
