20 Must-Attend Bay Area Summer Events for Families in 2024

The Bay Area is brimming with exciting summer events perfect for family outings. From music festivals and art fairs to outdoor concerts and unique cultural celebrations, there's something for everyone. Here's a detailed guide to 20 annual events, sorted by proximity to San Jose, complete with recommendations on what to see, where to eat, and direct links for more information.

1. San Jose Jazz Summer Fest

The San Jose Jazz Summer Fest is one of the most anticipated events in the Bay Area, drawing music lovers from all over to the heart of Silicon Valley. Held every August, this vibrant festival transforms downtown San Jose into a musical wonderland, featuring over 100 performances across multiple stages. The festival showcases an eclectic mix of genres, including jazz, blues, Latin, salsa, R&B, and more, ensuring there's something for every musical taste. Families will find plenty to do, from enjoying live music and dance performances to exploring food stalls and artisan vendors. The Kids’ Zone provides a safe and fun environment for children to engage in music workshops and crafts. The festival's commitment to offering a family-friendly experience makes it an ideal outing for people of all ages.

• When: Early August (August 9-11, 2024)
• Where: Downtown San Jose
• Why it's fun: This major music festival features over 100 performances across multiple stages, offering a mix of jazz, blues, Latin, salsa, R&B, and more. Family-friendly activities and delicious food vendors make it a fun outing for all ages.
• Recommendation: Don’t miss the main stage performances and the Salsa Stage for some energetic dance vibes.
• Where to eat: Enjoy the festival food or dine at Original Joe's (address: 301 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113) for Italian-American cuisine.
• More info: https://summerfest.sanjosejazz.org/

2. Children's Discovery Museum Summer of Learning

The Children's Discovery Museum in San Jose offers a summer full of engaging activities and learning opportunities for kids. The museum features interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity, with special summer programs that include science experiments, arts and crafts, and outdoor play. Bill's Backyard is a highlight, providing a space for outdoor exploration and water play. Families can enjoy a day filled with fun and educational activities, making it a perfect summer outing. The museum's café offers convenient dining options, or you can walk to Mezcal for authentic Oaxacan cuisine.

• When: Throughout the summer
• Where: Children's Discovery Museum, 180 Woz Way, San Jose, CA
• Why it's fun: The museum offers a range of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities specifically designed for kids. Special summer programs include science experiments, arts and crafts, and outdoor play.
• Recommendation: Check out the Bill's Backyard for outdoor exploration and the water play area.
• Where to eat: Visit the museum café or walk to Mezcal (address: 25 W San Fernando St, San Jose, CA 95113) for authentic Oaxacan cuisine.
• More info: https://www.cdm.org/

3. San Jose Giants Baseball Games

For a classic American summer experience, head to Excite Ballpark to watch the San Jose Giants in action. From April through September, these minor league baseball games offer affordable family fun with plenty of excitement. Kids will love meeting the mascot, Gigante, and participating in between-inning activities like races and trivia contests. Friday night games are especially popular, thanks to the spectacular post-game fireworks show. The ballpark food is a highlight, but if you're looking for more dining options, nearby Luna Mexican Kitchen offers delicious Mexican cuisine.

• When: April through September
• Where: Excite Ballpark, 588 E Alma Ave, San Jose, CA
• Why it's fun: Watching a minor league baseball game is a perfect family activity. Kids can enjoy the mascot, Gigante, and participate in fun between-inning activities like races and trivia contests.
• Recommendation: Attend a Friday night game to enjoy the fireworks show post-game.
• Where to eat: Grab classic ballpark food or visit Luna Mexican Kitchen (address: 1495 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126) nearby.
• More info: https://www.milb.com/san-jose/schedule

4. Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival

The Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival is a beloved local event that draws families and art enthusiasts to Central Park every September. The festival features a wide range of activities, including live entertainment, arts and crafts booths, and food and wine tastings. There's also a kids' kingdom with rides and games, making it a perfect outing for families. The festival's relaxed atmosphere and beautiful park setting make it a great place to spend a weekend. Don't miss the kids' art activities and the wine garden for adults looking to relax and enjoy some local wines. For dining, Athena Grill offers tasty Greek cuisine nearby.

• When: Mid-September (September 14-15, 2024)
• Where: Central Park, Santa Clara, CA
• Why it's fun: This festival features live entertainment, arts and crafts booths, and food and wine tastings. There's a kids' kingdom with rides and games.
• Recommendation: Don’t miss the kids' art activities and the wine garden for the adults.
• Where to eat: Enjoy festival food or visit Athena Grill (address: 1505 Space Park Dr, Santa Clara, CA 95054) for Greek cuisine.
• More info: https://santaclaraartandwine.com/

5. Sunnyvale Art & Wine Festival

The Sunnyvale Art & Wine Festival is a popular summer event that takes over downtown Sunnyvale every June. The festival features live music, arts and crafts booths, food vendors, and a kids' zone with activities and rides. It's a great place for families to enjoy a day out, exploring the various stalls and enjoying the festive atmosphere. The hands-on kids' activities are a big hit, providing plenty of entertainment for younger attendees. The variety of food trucks offers something for everyone, from gourmet snacks to hearty meals. For a sit-down meal, Dishdash offers delicious Middle Eastern cuisine nearby.

• When: Early June (June 1-2, 2024)
• Where: Downtown Sunnyvale, CA
• Why it's fun: This event includes live music, arts and crafts, food vendors, and a kids' zone with activities and rides.
• Recommendation: Check out the hands-on kids' activities and the variety of food trucks.
• Where to eat: Enjoy festival food or dine at Dishdash (address: 190 S Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94086) for Middle Eastern cuisine.
• More info: https://www.svcoc.org/

6. Mountain View Art & Wine Festival

The Mountain View Art & Wine Festival is held every September and is one of the Bay Area's most celebrated summer events. The festival takes place along Castro Street in downtown Mountain View and features a blend of fine arts and crafts, live music, gourmet food, and wine tasting. Kids will enjoy a special play area with rides and activities, ensuring there's fun for the whole family. The event's lively atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a perfect weekend outing. Be sure to explore the Kids' Park and take a break at the Comcast Pigskin Party Lounge. For dining, check out the local food trucks or visit Scratch for American cuisine.

• When: Second weekend of September (September 7-8, 2024)
• Where: Castro Street, Downtown Mountain View
• Why it's fun: This festival offers a mix of fine arts and crafts, live music, gourmet food, and wine tasting. Kids can enjoy a special play area with rides and activities.
• Recommendation: Check out the Kids' Park and the Comcast Pigskin Party Lounge for a break from shopping and tasting.
• Where to eat: Try local food trucks at the festival or dine at Scratch (address: 401 Castro St, Mountain View, CA 94041) for American cuisine.
• More info: https://mountainview.miramarevents.com/

7. Palo Alto Festival of the Arts

The Palo Alto Festival of the Arts takes place every August along University Avenue in downtown Palo Alto. This festival showcases fine art, live music, and interactive art exhibits, making it a cultural highlight of the summer. Families can enjoy a range of activities, including a kids' art studio where children can create their own masterpieces. The festival's vibrant atmosphere and diverse artistic offerings make it a must-visit event. Be sure to visit the chalk art area to see incredible street paintings. For dining, festival-goers can enjoy festival food or dine at Evvia Estiatorio for Greek cuisine.

• When: Last weekend of August (August 24-25, 2024)
• Where: University Avenue, Downtown Palo Alto
• Why it's fun: This festival showcases fine art, live music, and interactive art exhibits. There’s a kids' art studio where children can create their own masterpieces.
• Recommendation: Visit the chalk art area to see incredible street paintings.
• Where to eat: Enjoy festival food or dine at Evvia Estiatorio (address: 420 Emerson St, Palo Alto, CA 94301) for Greek cuisine.
• More info: https://www.paloaltochamber.com/festival-of-the-arts/

8. San Mateo County Fair

The San Mateo County Fair is a summer staple in the Bay Area, offering a week-long celebration of fun and entertainment for the whole family. Held at the San Mateo County Event Center in mid-June, the fair features carnival rides, live performances, agricultural exhibits, and a wide variety of food vendors. It's a perfect place for families to spend a day enjoying traditional fair activities. Highlights include the petting zoo and the nightly fireworks. The fair's lively atmosphere and diverse attractions make it a must-visit event. For dining, enjoy fair food or visit the nearby Broadway Grill for American dishes.

• When: Mid-June (June 8-16, 2024)
• Where: San Mateo County Event Center, 1346 Saratoga Dr, San Mateo, CA
• Why it's fun: Featuring carnival rides, live performances, agricultural exhibits, and a wide variety of food vendors, this fair has something for everyone in the family.
• Recommendation: Don’t miss the petting zoo and the nightly fireworks.
• Where to eat: Enjoy fair food or visit the nearby Broadway Grill (address: 1400 Broadway, Burlingame, CA 94010) for American dishes.
• More info: https://sanmateocountyfair.com/

9. San Ramon Art & Wind Festival

The San Ramon Art & Wind Festival is a unique and colorful event that takes place over Memorial Day Weekend in San Ramon's Central Park. This festival is known for its impressive kite flying displays, attracting kite enthusiasts from all over. In addition to the kites, the festival features arts and crafts booths, live entertainment, and a kids' zone with activities and games. It's a fun-filled day for families, offering plenty of opportunities for creativity and outdoor enjoyment. Don't miss the kite-making workshops for kids and the chance to fly your own kite. For dining, enjoy festival food or visit Gianni’s Italian Bistro for delicious Italian cuisine.

• When: Memorial Day Weekend (May 26-27, 2024)
• Where: Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon, CA
• Why it's fun: This unique festival features kite flying, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and a kids' zone. It’s a fun event for all ages with plenty of activities and food options.
• Recommendation: Bring a kite to join the fun and don’t miss the kite-making workshops for kids.
• Where to eat: Enjoy festival food or visit Gianni’s Italian Bistro (address: 2065 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583) for Italian cuisine.
• More info: https://www.sanramon.ca.gov/cms/One.aspx?portalId=10826130&pageId=11665738

10. Menlo Summerfest

The Menlo Summerfest, held in July, transforms downtown Menlo Park into a vibrant festival ground. This event features live music, arts and crafts booths, a food court, and a special kids' zone with activities and entertainment. Families can enjoy a variety of performances and explore the many vendor stalls offering unique handmade goods. The festival's lively atmosphere and wide range of activities make it a fun and engaging outing for all ages. Be sure to visit the Headliner Music Stage and the Kids’ Fun Zone. For dining, enjoy festival food or try Flea Street Café for a farm-to-table experience.

• When: Third weekend of July (July 20-21, 2024)
• Where: Santa Cruz Avenue, Downtown Menlo Park
• Why it's fun: This event offers live music, arts and crafts booths, a food court, and a special kids' zone with activities and entertainment.
• Recommendation: Make sure to visit the Headliner Music Stage and the Kids’ Fun Zone.
• Where to eat: Enjoy festival food or try Flea Street Café (address: 3607 Alameda de las Pulgas, Menlo Park, CA 94025) for a farm-to-table experience.
• More info: https://www.paloaltoonline.com/calendar/#!/details/Menlo-Summer-Fest/5878757/2019-07-20T10

11. Stern Grove Festival

The Stern Grove Festival is a beloved San Francisco tradition, offering free outdoor concerts every Sunday from mid-June to mid-August. Held in the picturesque Sigmund Stern Grove, the festival features performances by world-class musicians in a beautiful natural setting. Families can enjoy a picnic while listening to a wide range of musical genres, from classical and jazz to rock and world music. The festival's relaxed atmosphere and stunning location make it a perfect summer outing. Arrive early to secure a good spot and don't miss the family-friendly Kids Day. Bring your own picnic or visit Park Chalet for casual dining with ocean views.

• When: Sundays from mid-June to mid-August (June 16 - August 18, 2024)
• Where: Sigmund Stern Grove, 19th Avenue and Sloat Blvd, San Francisco, CA
• Why it's fun: This free outdoor concert series in a beautiful park setting is perfect for families. Bring a picnic and enjoy performances from world-class musicians.
• Recommendation: Arrive early to secure a good spot and don’t miss the family-friendly Kids Day.
• Where to eat: Bring your own picnic or visit Park Chalet (address: 1000 Great Hwy, San Francisco, CA 94121) for casual dining with ocean views.
• More info: https://www.sterngrove.org/

12. Fillmore Jazz Festival

The Fillmore Jazz Festival, held over the first weekend of July, is the largest free jazz festival on the West Coast. Taking place on Fillmore Street in San Francisco, the festival features multiple stages with live jazz performances, arts and crafts booths, and gourmet food stalls. The event attracts jazz enthusiasts and families alike, offering a lively atmosphere and a wide range of activities. Don't miss the headliner performances and the unique arts and crafts booths. For dining, State Bird Provisions offers a unique culinary experience nearby.

• When: First weekend of July (July 6-7, 2024)
• Where: Fillmore Street, San Francisco, CA
• Why it's fun: The largest free jazz festival on the West Coast features multiple stages with live jazz performances, arts and crafts, and gourmet food stalls.
• Recommendation: Don’t miss the headliner performances and the unique arts and crafts booths.
• Where to eat: Dine at State Bird Provisions (address: 1529 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115) for a unique dining experience.
• More info: https://www.fillmorejazzfest.com/ 

13. Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival

The Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival is a major summer event held in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco. Taking place in August, the festival features big-name acts, art installations, and gourmet food vendors. It's a family-friendly event with plenty of activities for kids, including Kidzapalooza, a special area with music, crafts, and interactive activities designed just for children. The festival's diverse offerings make it a must-visit event for music lovers and families alike. Explore the interactive art installations and enjoy the diverse food offerings. For dining, check out the various food vendors at the festival or visit Burma Superstar for Burmese cuisine.

• When: Second weekend of August (August 9-11, 2024)
• Where: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA
• Why it's fun: This major music festival features big-name acts, art installations, and gourmet food vendors. It’s family-friendly with plenty of activities for kids.
• Recommendation: Explore the interactive art installations and enjoy the diverse food offerings.
• Where to eat: Enjoy food from various vendors at the festival or visit Burma Superstar (address: 309 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118) for Burmese cuisine.
• More info: https://www.sfoutsidelands.com/

14. San Francisco Pride Parade and Celebration

The San Francisco Pride Parade and Celebration is a vibrant, colorful event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. Held over the last weekend of June, the parade takes place on Market Street, with festivities continuing at Civic Center Plaza. Families can enjoy the parade's elaborate floats, live music, and diverse performances. The event's inclusive and festive atmosphere makes it a perfect outing for people of all ages. Attend the parade and visit the Civic Center Plaza for live performances and food vendors. For dining, try Sam's Chowder House for delicious seafood.

• When: Last weekend of June (June 29-30, 2024)
• Where: Market Street and Civic Center Plaza, San Francisco, CA
• Why it's fun: The SF Pride Parade is a vibrant, colorful event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. Families can enjoy the parade with its elaborate floats, live music, and diverse performances.
• Recommendation: Attend the parade and visit the Civic Center Plaza for live performances and food vendors.
• Where to eat: Try Sam's Chowder House (address: 421 Castro St, San Francisco, CA 94114) for delicious seafood.
• More info: https://sfpride.org/parade/

15. Fremont Festival of the Arts

The Fremont Festival of the Arts is one of the largest free street festivals in California, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Held over the first weekend of August, the festival transforms downtown Fremont into a bustling hub of activity. Visitors can explore a vast array of arts and crafts booths, enjoy live music across multiple stages, and savor delicious food from numerous vendors. The festival also features a dedicated kids' zone with interactive activities and games, making it a perfect family outing.

• When: First weekend of August (August 3-4, 2024)
• Where: Downtown Fremont, CA
• Why it's fun: The festival offers a mix of arts and crafts, live music, and food vendors. The kids' zone ensures that younger visitors have plenty of activities to enjoy.
• Recommendation: Explore the arts and crafts booths and enjoy the live performances on various stages.
• Where to eat: Enjoy festival food from a variety of vendors or visit nearby restaurants like Strizzi's (address: 2740 Mowry Ave, Fremont, CA 94538) for Italian cuisine.
• More info: https://www.fremontfestival.net/

16. San Francisco Shakespeare Festival

The San Francisco Shakespeare Festival offers free outdoor performances of Shakespeare's plays in various parks across the Bay Area, including San Francisco, Redwood City, and Cupertino. Held on weekends from July to September, the festival provides a relaxed and enjoyable way to experience classic literature. Bring a blanket and picnic for a comfortable viewing experience. The festival's accessible and family-friendly format makes it an excellent cultural outing for all ages. For dining, pack a picnic or dine at The Grove before the show.

• When: Weekends from July to September (July 13 - September 22, 2024)
• Where: Various parks in San Francisco, Redwood City, and Cupertino
• Why it's fun: Enjoy free, outdoor Shakespeare performances in a relaxed setting. It's a great way to introduce kids to classic literature.
• Recommendation: Bring a blanket and picnic for a comfortable viewing experience.
• Where to eat: Pack a picnic or dine at The Grove (address: 690 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94105) before the show.
• More info: https://www.sfshakes.org/

17. Gilroy Garlic Festival

The Gilroy Garlic Festival is a famous culinary event that celebrates all things garlic. Held over the last weekend of July at Christmas Hill Park in Gilroy, the festival features cooking competitions, live entertainment, and a kids' area. It's a unique culinary experience for the whole family, offering garlic-infused dishes and even garlic ice cream. Don't miss the Gourmet Alley for the best garlic dishes and the exciting cooking demonstrations. For dining, enjoy garlic-themed dishes at the festival or visit The Milias Restaurant for a sit-down meal.

• When: Last weekend of July (July 26-28, 2024)
• Where: Christmas Hill Park, Gilroy, CA
• Why it's fun: This famous festival celebrates all things garlic with cooking competitions, live entertainment, and a kids' area. It's a unique culinary experience for the whole family.
• Recommendation: Don’t miss the Gourmet Alley for garlic-infused dishes and the garlic ice cream.
• Where to eat: Enjoy garlic-themed dishes at the festival itself, or visit The Milias Restaurant (address: 7397 Monterey St, Gilroy, CA 95020) for a sit-down meal.
• More info: https://gilroygarlicfestivalassociation.com/

18. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic California destination offering year-round amusement park fun. During the summer, it hosts free concerts on Friday nights, adding to the festive atmosphere. Families can enjoy rides, arcade games, and the beautiful beach. Don't miss the Giant Dipper roller coaster and the free Friday night concerts. The boardwalk snacks are a highlight, but for a more substantial meal, visit The Picnic Basket for local, organic food.

• When: Open year-round; free concerts on Friday nights in the summer
• Where: 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA
• Why it's fun: The Boardwalk offers classic amusement park fun with rides, arcade games, and free summer concerts on the beach.
• Recommendation: Don’t miss the Giant Dipper roller coaster and the free Friday night concerts.
• Where to eat: Enjoy boardwalk snacks or visit The Picnic Basket (address: 125 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060) for local, organic food.
• More info: https://beachboardwalk.com/

19. Santa Clara County Fair

The Santa Clara County Fair is a beloved local event held in early August at the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds. The fair offers traditional fair activities, including rides, games, live music, and agricultural exhibits. It's a fun-filled event for families, providing a wide range of entertainment and attractions. Highlights include the livestock shows and the variety of food vendors. For dining, enjoy fair food or visit Smoking Pig BBQ Company for delicious barbecue.

• When: Early August (August 1-4, 2024)
• Where: Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, 344 Tully Rd, San Jose, CA
• Why it's fun: This traditional county fair includes rides, games, live music, and agricultural exhibits. There’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
• Recommendation: Check out the livestock shows and enjoy the fair’s food vendors.
• Where to eat: Eat at the fair or visit Smoking Pig BBQ Company (address: 1144 N 4th St, San Jose, CA 95112) for some delicious barbecue.
• More info: https://www.thefair.org/

20. Napa Porchfest

Napa Porchfest is a unique and charming event held on the last Sunday of July in Napa's historic neighborhoods. The festival features live music from local bands performing on porches, creating a relaxed and community-focused atmosphere. Wander through the neighborhoods, enjoy the music, and discover new bands. It's a laid-back and enjoyable outing for families. Pick up a map at the start to plan your route and see as many bands as possible. For dining, pack a picnic or visit Gott's Roadside for classic American fare.

• When: Last Sunday of July (July 28, 2024)
• Where: Various historic neighborhoods in Napa, CA
• Why it's fun: Wander through Napa’s historic neighborhoods and enjoy live music from local bands performing on charming porches. It’s a relaxed and unique event for families.
• Recommendation: Pick up a map at the start to plan your route and see as many bands as possible.
• Where to eat: Pack a picnic or visit Gott's Roadside (address: 644 1st St, Napa, CA 94559) for classic American fare.
• More info: https://napaporchfest.org/

Make the Most of Your Bay Area Summer

The Bay Area offers a plethora of exciting and diverse summer events that cater to families, music lovers, foodies, and culture enthusiasts alike. From the vibrant performances at the San Jose Jazz Summer Fest to the charming Napa Porchfest, there is no shortage of activities to fill your summer days with fun and memorable experiences. Each event provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural fabric and scenic beauty of the region while enjoying quality time with loved ones.

If you're looking to make the most of your summer in the Bay Area, attending these events is a must. For personalized advice on navigating the local real estate market or finding the perfect home to enjoy all that the Bay Area has to offer, reach out to Michael Katwan. With his expertise and deep understanding of the Bay Area, Michael can help you find a home that suits your needs and allows you to fully experience the best of what the region has to offer. Contact Michael today to start your journey!