The festivities begin
Our guide to summer fairs and festivals.
By Sean McCourt and Cheryl Eddy

TIMES AND PRICES are given when available, and all events are subject to change. Check our regular weekly listings for other events throughout the season, and stay tuned for our guide to fall fairs (Aug. 25).

Ongoing

ArtSFest More than 100 events – theater, music, and dance performances, gallery exhibitions, and more – make up this fest celebrating arts in the Bay Area. Check the Web site for more information and a schedule. Through May 31. 1-888-700-ARTS, www.artsfest2004.com.

Fillmore Saturday market Fresh produce, breads, and flowers, as well as live jazz and art exhibits, highlight this community event. Through Nov. 20. Sat., 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Fillmore and Eddy parking lot, S.F. Free. (415) 441-6396, www.fillmorejazz.com.

Independent Exposure The ongoing independent film and video series holds three special summer programs: "All Comedy Edition" (June 28); "Manifest Destiny Edition" (July 26); and "Sizzling Summer Edition" (Aug. 30). 8 p.m., 111 Minna Gallery, 111 Minna, S.F. $5. (415) 864-0660, www.microcinema.com.

Mission Trail mural walks Precita Eyes Mural Arts and Visitors Center hosts cultural and historic walking tours of Mission District murals. Through Aug. 29. Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., Precita Eyes Mural Arts and Visitors Center, 2981 24th St. (Sat. tours, meet at 24th St. BART station), S.F. $12. (415) 285-2287, www.precitaeyes.org.

'Pride Idol 2' A series of competitions for local undiscovered talent in the LBGT community leads up to a big finale show June 27. Check the Web site for venues and information. Through June 19. www.prideidol.org.

Suisun Arts and Crafts Street Faire Enjoy live music, horse carriage rides, antiques, arts and crafts, and canine representation from Greyhound Dog Rescue. June 5 and first Saturdays through Dec. 5. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Waterfront Plaza, Main at Solano, Suisun. Free. www.streetfaire.net.

Yerba Buena Gardens Festival All summer long – and into fall – Yerba Buena Gardens hosts more than 200 free events, including concerts, festivals, dance and theater performances, and art exhibits. Through Oct. 31. Yerba Buena Gardens, Fourth St. at Mission, S.F. Free. www.ybgf.org.

May 22

AgriCultural Roots Fair Celebrate local agriculture at this fest, which features music and dance performances, fresh produce, a "Compost Challenge," fruit- and vegetable-carving competitions, and more. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Laney College Channel Park, between 7th and 10th Sts. on the south side of Laney College, Oakl. Free. (510) 550-4945, www.sagecenter.org/agroots.

'KFOG KaBoom!' A huge fireworks display caps off a free evening of entertainment, with performances by Train, the Waifs, and Robert Randolph and the Family Band. 4-10 p.m., Pier 30/32, S.F. Free. (415) 817-KFOG, www.kfog.com.

Malcolm X JazzArts Festival This festival features live music and performance, art, and more. 11 a.m.-7 p.m., San Antonio Park, 18th Ave. and Foothill Blvd., Oakl. Free. (510) 533-6629.

May 22-23

Bay Area Storytelling Festival Master yarn-spinners from the Bay Area and beyond share myths, folk and fairy tales, oral histories, bilingual stories, and more. Recommended for ages nine and up. Sat., 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Sun., 9:30 a.m.-4:45 p.m., Kennedy Grove Recreation Area, San Pablo Dam Road near Castro Ranch Road, El Sobrante. $10 (festival pass $52). (510) 644-2593, www.bayareastorytelling.org.

Himalayan Fair The cultures of Tibet, Nepal, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bhutan are celebrated at the annual fair, with arts, antiques, modern crafts, a wide range of performers, and more. Sat., 10:45 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 10:45 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Live Oak Park, 1300 Shattuck, Berk. $8. (510) 869-3995, www.himalayanfair.net.

'Return of the Salmon: A Seasonal Celebration' Mark the start of the wild salmon season at this event, featuring live music, sidewalk chalk coloring, and a parading salmon character on stilts. Sat., 8 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Ferry Building Marketplace, Market at Embarcadero, S.F. Free (salmon roast lunch, Sun., 11 a.m.-2 p.m., $15). www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com.

May 22-27

Trans/Intersex/Genderqueer Week The first-annual event covers four days (May 22-23 and 26-27) and features benefits for Transgender San Francisco and United Genders of the Universe, a picnic at Dolores Park, and a performance showcase sponsored by GenderEnders, "Tranny Lovers Show." (510) 301-6934, hi@juliaserano.com.

May 26-31

Wine Country Antique Show Enjoy some of the finest wines Napa Valley has to offer while perusing the extensive collection of vintage and antique collectibles at this benefit for the Napa Valley Opera House. Opening gala Fri., 7 p.m.; exhibition Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Mon., 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Napa Exhibition Center, Chardonnay Hall, 575 Third St., Napa. $10 (gala $100). (707) 226-7372, ext. 206.

May 26-June 5

Mission Creek Music Festival Dozens of great local bands and musicians – including Casiotone for the Painfully Alone, Zeek Scheck, and the Vanishing – play during the eighth running of the popular summer festival. www.mcmf.org.

May 26-Oct. 13

SFJazz Summerfest The Crocker Galleria, the Stanford Shopping Center, Union Square, and Levi's Plaza near the San Francisco waterfront provide the backdrops for more than 25 free outdoor jazz concerts. Performers hail from the Bay Area, Cuba, Brazil, and Mexico. www.sfjazz.org/concerts/outdoors.html.

May 29

'Chocolate and Chalk Art on Solano' Solano Avenue, which runs through Berkeley and Albany, is decorated by artists of all ages and abilities at this street fair honoring chalk art. Sweet tooths take note: the accompanying chocolate-tasting event ($10 for a pack of 10 tickets) offers up a range of goodies, from chocolate cake to chocolate-covered bugs. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Solano Ave., Berk. and Albany. Free. (510) 527-5358, www.solanoave.org.

Northern California Rhythm and Brews Festival Now in its ninth year, this party features more than 50 of the world's best micro and import breweries, pouring more than 100 kinds of beer, with a soundtrack provided by Wonderbread 5, Hip Service, and others. 1-6 p.m., Travis Credit Union Park, 1691 E. Monte Vista, Vacaville. $10-$25. www.agreatbrewfest.com.

'Promise for Peace: The Interactive Peace Fair' Berkeley-based peace-and-justice nonprofit Inspirit Collective hosts a fair with representatives from progressive organizations, a range of speakers, and a solar-powered music stage featuring performances by the Mix, Hamsa Lila, Sasha Butterfly, and others; Wavy Gravy MCs. 11 a.m., Stafford Lake County Park, Novato (near Stafford Lake Dam). $18. 1-866-384-3060, peacegathering.com.

May 29-30

Air and Space Show Live out your Top Gun and Apollo 13 fantasies at this event, featuring a performance by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds jet team and a hands-on exhibit about space exploration. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, Mountain View. $15-$20. (650) 599-5057, www.airshownetwork.com.

Carnaval San Francisco The 26th annual incarnation of the vibrant Mission District multicultural celebration features a grand parade (Sun., 9:30 a.m., starts at Bryant and 24th St. and proceeds down Mission to 17th St.), local and visiting Latina and Caribbean musicians and dancers, drummers from Brazil and Africa, and more. 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Harrison between 16th and 23rd Sts., S.F. Free. (415) 920-0125, www.carnavalsf.com.

Santa Cruz Blues Festival The fest features performances by Jonny Lang, Shemekia Copeland, Bernard Allison, Buddy Guy and Double Trouble, Coco Montoya, Tommy Castro, the Holmes brothers, and others. 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Road, Aptos. $37-$62 (two-day pass $64-$114). info@santacruzbluesfestival.com.

Vintage Paper Fair The largest paper fair on the West Coast has more than a million items for sale, such as antique photographs, magazines, postcards, menus, and sports memorabilia. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton, Concord. Sat. $5; Sun. free. (323) 883-1702, www.vintagepaperfair.com.

May 29-31

Boulder Creek Art, Wine and Music Festival Nestled in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, the festival features local musicians, artists, and wineries showcasing their talents and wares. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Highway 9 between Scarborough Lumber and San Lorenzo River Bridge, Boulder Creek. Free. www.bcba.net.

Civil War Days The ghosts of the Blue and the Gray come alive once again in this battlefield recreation. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Ardenwood Historic Farm, 34600 Ardenwood, Fremont. $5-$8. (510) 796-0663.

San Francisco Cup and International Youth Soccer Tournament Some 128 teams from all over the world compete in the 17th annual event, featuring some of the top youth soccer players demonstrating their skills and stamina. 8:30 a.m., Kezar Stadium, Polo Fields, Golden Gate Park, near Frederick and Stanyan, S.F. (415) 751-8801, www.sfcup.com.

May 30

Caledonia Street Fair This multicultural themed event features international food, art, music, and dance, all packed into six short blocks. 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Caledonia, Sausalito. Free. www.ci.sausalito.ca.us.

'San Francisco Opera in the Gardens' See rising national and international opera stars in this Memorial Day-weekend tradition hosted by the San Francisco Opera. 2-4 p.m., Yerba Buena Gardens, Fourth St. at Mission, S.F. Free. (415) 543-1718, www.ybgf.org.

June 1-Aug. 7

'Concerts on the Plaza' The Mill Valley Art Commission presents free concerts by the Starduster Orchestra, the Steve Bennett Group, the Billy Boys, and others June 1, July 6, and Aug. 3, plus a children's concert with Miss Kitty Aug. 7. 6 p.m. (children's concert 11 a.m.), Lytton Square, Mill Valley. Free. (415) 721-1856.

June 2-30

National Queer Arts Festival Since 1998 this festival has showcased some of the best professional and emerging artists in the queer community. Dance, comedy, visual art, lit, poetry, and film are the art forms presented. www.queerculturalcenter.org.

June 2-Aug. 25

'Summer Sounds' The Oakland City Center plaza hosts free outdoor concerts – Cajun, African, jazz, soul, bluegrass, gospel, reggae, and more – every Wednesday. Wednesdays, noon-1 p.m., Oakland City Center (adjacent to 12th St./City Center BART station), Oakl. Free. www.oaklandcitycenter.com.

June 3-6

Contra Costa County Fair This year's theme, "A Horse of a Different Color," is backed up with a kids' corral and "Wild West Express" entertainment. Other highlights include a comedy hypnosis show, carnival rides, and livestock exhibits. Thurs., 1-11 p.m.; Fri.-Sun., 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Contra Costa County Fairgrounds, 10th and L Sts., Antioch. $4-$7. (925) 779-7916, www.ccfair.org.

June 3-July 29

Summer Noon Concerts Downtown Berkeley hosts free outdoor concerts on Thursdays in June and July. Thursdays, noon-1 p.m., downtown Berkeley BART plaza (Shattuck at Center), Berk. Free. www.downtownberkeley.org.

June 4-6

Hopland Women's Festival This women-only event features performances by Ferron, Bitch and Animal, and others, plus workshops, drumming sessions, and more. Fri., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 7 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Sun., 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Full Moon Ranch, Hopland. $18-$165. (707) 467-9676, www.hoplandwomensfestival.com.

June 5

Berkeley Poetry Festival Spoken word artists and poets perform and sell their wares at this fifth annual community fair, which also features open mic and slam readings, crafts, organic food, and live music. 11:15 a.m.-5 p.m., Civic Center Park, Center at MLK Jr. Way, Berk. Free. www.mothershen.com.

San Francisco Accordion Festival June is National Accordion Awareness Month – so get aware by heading to the Cannery for this 14th annual fest. Highlights include the Ms. Accordion San Francisco Pageant, as well as a huge lineup of musicians playing everything from zydeco to polka to Tejano tunes on the squeeze box. Bring unwanted instruments to donate, or buy a raffle ticket to benefit Music in Schools Today. 2-8 p.m., Cannery, 2801 Leavenworth, S.F. Free. (415) 440-0800, www.ladyofspain.com.

Sonoma Valley Vintage Race Car Festival Get a close-up look at some historic and beautiful racing machines during the annual fair, then sample some of the finest food and wine the Sonoma Valley has to offer. 5:30-8 p.m., Sonoma Plaza, Sonoma. $30-$35. 1-800-870-RACE.

Wildlife Fair Come celebrate the diverse wildlife in the Bay Area by participating in educational activities, enjoying food and crafts, and watching animal demonstrations at this annual family event. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sulphur Creek Nature Center, 1801 D St., Hayward. $5. (510) 881-6747.

June 5-6

'Art Deco Weekend by the Bay' With more than 200 dealers selling art, furniture, jewelry, clothing, and collectibles, this event, celebrating its 20th year, is the largest art deco-'60s sale in the country. Also featuring a vintage fashion show, swing dancing lessons, and other special events, the sale transports visitors to another, more classy time. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Concourse Exhibition Center, 635 Eighth St., S.F. $6-$8. (650) 599-DECO, www.artdecosale.com.

'Art in the Avenues' More than 50 local artists from the Sunset Artists Society and Park Presidio Art Association hold their second annual art exhibition and sale. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Hall of Flowers, Golden Gate Park, near Ninth Ave. and Lincoln, S.F. Free. www.sunsetartists.com.

Marin Home Show and Benefit Jazz Fest The latest home-improvement and garden products meet jazz at a fest for DIY junkies. Lee Press-on and the Nails, Rex Allen's Swing Express, and other bands keep the joint jumping. Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Marin Center, Avenue of the Flags at Civic Center, San Rafael. $7. (415) 472-3500, www.marinhomeshow.com.

Union Street Festival More than 100,000 revelers pack Cow Hollow for this event; no doubt they're drawn to the 200 artists, 20 food booths, the wine and beer garden, the "family adventure area," and other delights. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Union between Gough and Steiner, S.F. Free. 1-800-310-6563, www.unionstreetfestival.com.

June 5-13

East Bay Open Studios More than 550 artists invite the public into their studios for self-guided tours; Pro Arts Gallery in downtown Oakland also hosts a comprehensive exhibit. Open Studios Sat. and Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Gallery exhibit Wed.-Sat., noon-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m., Pro Arts Gallery, 550 Second St., Oakl. Free. www.proartsgallery.org.

June 6

Israeli Independence Day celebration Glide Memorial Ensemble and Teapacks provide the entertainment at this family festival, which also features Israeli cuisine, arts and crafts, children's activities, and a parade celebrating the 56th anniversary of Israel. Sun., noon-6 p.m., SBC Park, 24 Willie Mays Plaza, S.F. $5. www.israelcentersf.org.

'A Taste of Albany: A Small-Town Walkabout' Enjoy live music and other entertainment on a culinary tour of 15 Albany restaurants. 5-9 p.m., Solano and San Pablo, Albany. $20-$25. (510) 525-1771, www.albanychamber.org.

June 9-13

San Francisco Black Film Festival The sixth annual incarnation of this film fest features more than 60 entries, including the latest from local director Kevin Epps (Straight outta Hunters Point). (415) 771-9271, www.sfbff.org.

June 11-26

Oakland Dance Festival The brand-new fest features performances by Company C Contemporary Ballet, Capacitor, Facing East Dance and Music, and Savage Jazz Dance Company. Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m., Alice Arts Center, 1428 Alice, Oakl. $22. (415) 392-4400, www.tickets.com.

June 12

Celtic Festival Enjoy a day of Celtic dancing, pipe bands, Welsh and Irish music, and children's activities while sampling the food of the culture that beckons you with "Cead Mile Failte" (One Hundred Thousand Welcomes). 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Ardenwood Historic Farm, 34600 Ardenwood, Fremont. $5-$8.50. (510) 796-0663.

Sixth Street Community Fair Music, art, food, and community groups fill this fair, dubbed "Positively Sixth Street." 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Sixth St. between Mission and Howard, S.F. Free. (415) 538-8100, ext. 202.

June 12-13

Fiesta Filipina The Bay Area's largest Filipino festival features celebrities from the Philippines as well as local talents, booths displaying native products, Filipino food, and a beauty pageant to crown "Little Miss Republic of the Philippines" and "Miss Republic of the Philippines." 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Civic Center, Larkin between Grove and McAllister, S.F. Free. (650) 871-6647, www.fiestafilipina.net.

Health and Harmony Festival Now in its 26th year, the fest boasts five stages of music (performers include Anjelique Kidjo, Jai Uttal and the Pagan Love Orchestra, Keller Williams, and Dave Mason); a "Techno-Tribal Community Dance" (Sat., 8 p.m.); and a host of vendors promoting green living, sustainable businesses, environmental action, and more. Sat., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m., Sonoma County Fairgrounds, Santa Rosa. $20-$25. (415) 389-TIXS, www.harmonyfestival.com.

Italian Street Painting Festival The streets of San Rafael come alive with color as hundreds of artists create more than 200 images of all sizes. The fest also features two stages of entertainment. Proceeds benefit Youth in Arts programs. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Fifth Ave. at A St., San Rafael. Free. (415) 457-4878, ext. 15; www.youthinarts.org.

Live Oak Park Fair Head to the North Berkeley park for continuous live jazz and more than 120 arts-and-crafts booths. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Live Oak Park, 1301 Shattuck, Berk. Free. (510) 898-3282, www.liveoakparkfair.com.

June 12-27

San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival This year's fest covers three weekends and groups performances into "Dances of the Land," "Dances of the Sea," and "Dances of the Sky." Participants include Chitresh Das Dance Company, Dunsmuir Scottish Dancers, FatChanceBellyDance, Gamelan Sekar Jaya, and Ensambles Ballet Folklorico de San Francisco. Sat., 2 and 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m., Palace of Fine Arts, 3301 Lyon, S.F. $22-$36. (415) 392-4400, www.cityboxoffice.com.

June 13

Haight-Ashbury Street Fair The 27th annual incarnation of one of San Francisco's most popular fairs features two stages of music; a variety of food, drinks, art, and crafts; and the inevitable sea of tie-dyed tees. 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Haight between Masonic and Stanyan, S.F. Free. www.haightstreetfair.org.

June 13-Aug 15

Stern Grove Festival Now in its 67th season, the outdoor fest hosts free concerts on Sundays throughout the summer. Scheduled acts include the San Francisco Symphony, the Long Beach Opera Company, Lila Downs, Youssou N'Dour, San Francisco Ballet, and the John Hammond Trio. Sundays, 2 p.m., Stern Grove, 19th Ave. at Sloat, S.F. Free. (415) 252-6252, www.sterngrove.org.

June 16-20

Sonoma-Marin Fair This year's theme is "A Picture Perfect Fair," and that picture includes entertainment by Creedence Clearwater Revisited, Lillix, Sawyer Brown, and others, plus clowns, a petting zoo, an ugliest-dog contest, a carnival midway, a technology pavilion, the ever popular "Destruction Derby," and more. Noon-midnight, Petaluma Fairgrounds, Washington St. exit off Hwy. 101, Petaluma. $8-$14. (707) 283-FAIR, www.sonoma-marinfair.org.

June 17

'Total Wellness' This free event features health screenings, fitness demos, an athletic-wear fashion show, informational booths, a blood drive, and more. 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Embarcadero Center (street level of Buildings One through Four, between Battery, Sacramento, Drumm, and Clay), S.F. Free. (415) 772-0734, www.embarcaderocenter.com.

June 17-20
San Francisco Motorcycle Club 100th anniversary The second-oldest motorcycle club in the United States celebrates with several events, including a beer tasting, a street fair with live music, and a ride through San Francisco. (415) 863-1930, www.sf-mc.org.

June 17-27

San Francisco International Lesbian and Gay Film Festival Frameline's 28th annual festival presents the world's best films by and about queer folks. Keep an eye on the Bay Guardian for complete festival coverage. www.frameline.org.

June 18-20

Isleton Crawdad Festival Once known as "the little Paris of the Delta," this tiny town on the banks of the Sacramento River is now best known for hosting the biggest crawdad fest outside of Louisiana. The fest also features Cajun music, a fun run, and gallons of gumbo. Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Isleton (six miles north of Rio Vista on Hwy. 160). Free. www.isletoncoc.org.

Sierra Nevada World Music Festival Three days of "peace, love, and music" on two stages, plus a dance hall, make the festival a popular out-of-town destination. Performers include Burning Spear, Michael Franti and Spearhead, and Femi Kuti. Camping is available for an additional charge ($30-$150). Fri., 6 p.m.-midnight; Sat., 11 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Angels Camp, Frogtown (off Hwy. 49), Calaveras County. $95 (three-day pass). (916) 777-5550, www.snwmf.com.

June 19-20

Berkeley World Music Festival Telegraph Avenue is packed with continuous music and dance originating from every corner of the globe at this festival. Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Telegraph Ave., Berk. Free. www.telegraphberkeley.org.

Marin Art Festival This lawn party features works by more than 200 artists, live jazz, roving stilt walkers, wine sampling, and more. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Lagoon Park, Marin Center, Avenue of the Flags at Civic Center, San Rafael. $8. (415) 388-0151, www.marinartfestival.com.

North Beach Festival Italian and beat culture mingle at this neighborhood fest, which features arts and crafts, a pizza toss, multiple stages of live music, pet blessings at the National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi (2 p.m. both days), a chalk art competition, and much more. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Washington Square Park, Columbus at Powell, S.F. Free. (415) 989-2220, www.sfnorthbeach.org.

San Francisco Juneteenth celebration The oldest and largest Juneteenth celebration outside of Texas marks the historic end of slavery; it's also known as "National Freedom Day." This year's event features a parade (Sat.) and a festival with two stages of live music, arts and crafts vendors, international food booths, and more. Check the Web site for related events, such as a job fair and carnival. 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Fillmore between Geary and Eddy, S.F. Free. (415) 931-2729, www.sfjuneteenth.org.

June 19-Aug. 7

Stanford Jazz Festival A huge array of well-known musicians play the summer-long fest, including opening-weekend headliner Ruth Brown. (650) 736-0324, info@stanfordjazz.org, www.ticketweb.com.

June 20

Native Contemporary Arts Festival Native American music, dance, art, food, and culture are highlighted at this family event. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Yerba Buena Gardens, Fourth St. at Mission, S.F. Free. (415) 543-1718, www.ybgf.org.

June 25-27

Kate Wolf Memorial Music Festival Northern California folk artist Kate Wolf is honored at this festival, featuring performances by Joan Baez, the Waybacks, and others. Fri., 1:30 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m., Black Oak Ranch, Laytonville (off Hwy. 101). $12-$135. (707) 823-1511 or (707) 829-7067, www.cumuluspresents.com.

June 25-July 11

Alameda County Fair This traditional family fair features a carnival midway with rides, horse racing, a huge array of exhibits, and nightly entertainment with the likes of Bo Diddley, Crystal Gayle, Night Ranger, and Paul Revere and the Raiders. Fair: Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sun., 10 a.m.-10 p.m. (July 4, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.). Carnival: Mon.-Thurs., noon-midnight; Fri.-Sun,, 11 a.m.-midnight (July 4, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.), Alameda County Fairgrounds, 4510 Pleasanton, Pleasanton. $6-$9. (925) 426-7559, www.alamedacountyfair.com.

June 25-Sept. 3

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk concerts The beach bandstand hosts Friday-night concerts, with acts as wide-ranging as the Bay City Rollers, Sha Na Na, Tiffany, Eddie Money, and Starship. 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach, Santa Cruz. Free. www.beachboardwalk.com.

June 26

Campbell Scottish Highland Games Witness awesome feats of athleticism at the World Professional Stone Put Championship, then enjoy Celtic music and dance, bagpipes galore, a "haggis toss," and more. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Campbell Community Center, Campbell at Winchester, Campbell. $10-$12. (408) 219-9264, www.campbellgames.com.

Dyke March The "largest gathering of dykes in the world" boasts a rally and stage show featuring Gwen Avery, Jewelle Gomez, Dykes on Bikes, and much more. Entertainment 3 p.m.; march 7 p.m., Dolores Park, Dolores between 18th and 20th Sts., S.F. Free. www.dykemarch.org.

June 26-27

Russian River Blues Festival Jonny Lang, Etta James, Earl Thomas, the Elvin Bishop Group, and other big names headline. 11 a.m., Russian River Resort Area (off Hwy. 101; take River Road exit), Guerneville. $47.50-$95 (both days $95-$190). (510) 655-9471, www.russianriverbluesfest.com.

San Anselmo Art and Design Festival Aside from the usual arts and gourmet food booths, this year's fest also focuses on home design, with garden and cooking demos and hands-on projects. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., San Anselmo Ave. between Tamalpais and Bolinas, San Anselmo. Free. 1-800-310-6563, www.artanddesignfestival.com.

San Francisco Free Folk Festival The annual fest offers up way more than music (though there's plenty to be had, with Pete Olson and his Honky Tonk Band, Shay Black, and others) – there are also dance and music workshops, family activities, evening dances, and more. Sat., noon-11 p.m.; Sun., noon-10:30 p.m., Roosevelt Middle School, 460 Arguello, S.F. Free. www.sffolkfest.org.

San Francisco Pride The theme of this year's celebration is "Out 4 Justice," honoring the fight for queer equality. The weekend includes the usual array of parties and gatherings, plus multiple stages of music at Civic Center, and San Francisco's most colorful parade. Scottish actor Alan Cumming (X2: X-Men United) is this year's celebrity grand marshal. Check the Bay Guardian's June 23 issue for more Pride events. www.sfpride.org.

June 26-Sept. 18

'Concert in the Hills' series Cal State Hayward's Contra Costa Campus hosts monthly free concerts; artists include Roy Rogers and the Delta Rhythm Kings (June 26), Lavay Smith and Her Red-Hot Skillet Lickers (July 24), SoVoSó (Aug. 21), and Dr. Loco's Rockin' Jalapeño Band (Sept. 18). 8 p.m., Cal State Hayward, Contra Costa Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Road, Concord. Free. (925) 602-8654, www.concertinthehills.org.

July 1-4

High Sierra Music Festival Steve Earle and the Bluegrass Dukes, moe., Galactic, Sound Tribe Sector 9, Leftover Salmon, and many others play this music and camping festival. Thurs.-Fri., 8 a.m.-1 a.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-11 p.m., Plumas-Sierra County Fairgrounds, 204 Fairground Road, Quincy. $10-$165. www.highsierramusic.com.

July 1-5

Marin County Fair This year's theme is "The Legacy of Frank Lloyd Wright in Marin County," so a host of architecture-themed exhibits, performances, and activities are added to the traditional fireworks displays, carnival rides, petting zoo, and so on. Entertainment comes courtesy of the Village People, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, War, Tower of Power, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, among others. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Marin Center, Avenue of the Flags at Civic Center, San Rafael. $10-$12. (415) 499-6800, www.marinfair.org.

July 2-5

'Marin/Scapes' This exhibit and sale of Marin County landscape art by more than 50 artists benefits Buckelew Programs, an agency that helps adults with mental illness. Noon-6 p.m., Escalle Winery, 771 Magnolia, Larkspur. $12. (415) 457-6964, www.buckelew.org.

July 3-4

Fillmore Street Jazz Festival The Fillmore's musical past is celebrated at the annual free fest, featuring traditional and contemporary jazz, exhibits by more than 300 artists, gourmet food booths, and more. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Fillmore between Jackson and Ellis, S.F. Free. 1-800-731-0003, www.fillmorejazzfestival.com.

July 4

Fourth of July Waterfront Festival This year's fest includes entertainment by the Unauthorized Rolling Stones and David Martin's House Party, as well as the traditional fireworks extravaganza. 2:15 p.m., Pier 39, Embarcadero and Beach, S.F. Free. (415) 705-5500, www.pier39.com.

Hot Rod and Kustom Car Show Cars, trucks, and motorcycles are welcomed to this show, which also features barbecue, vendors, a raffle, and live music by the Chop Tops, the Mutilators, Arsen Roulette, and the Ricochets. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Sea Bowl, 4625 Hwy. 1, Pacifica. Free (cars $10). (650) 738-8190, www.seabowl.com.

'WorldOnefestival' WorldOneradio hosts a day of world music and culture, featuring belly dance performances, Afro-Peruvian music and dance with De Rompe y Raja, Brazilian beats by Bat Makumba, reggae with Tchiya Amet and the Lighthouse Band, and more. 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Cerrito Vista Park, Moeser at Pomona, El Cerrito. Free. (510) 233-0611, www.worldoneradio.org.

July 5-31

'LaborFest' Mark the 70th anniversary of the San Francisco General Strike by attending one of several cultural and art events sponsored by the annual fest. Highlights include performances of Labor on Broadway, Box Car Bertha, and other plays; a labor maritime boat tour; and film screenings. (415) 642-8066, www.laborfest.net.

July 10-11

Los Altos Art and Wine Festival This fest features a juried art show with more than 440 artisans from throughout the United States, three stages of music (including a "kidzone" for the shorties), an international food village, and more. Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Main and State, Los Altos. Free. (650) 917-9799, www.losaltos-downtown.org.

San Francisco Silent Film Festival The mighty Wurlitzer at San Francisco's finest movie palace gets a workout when Valentino, Chaplin, and other silent-movie superstars hit the big screen at the ninth annual festival. www.silentfilm.org.

July 10-Aug. 15

Heart of the Forest Renaissance Faire A fully armored joust, Punch and Judy puppet shows, interactive Shakespearean theater, and other 16th-century-style entertainments highlight this multiweekend festival. Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Stafford Lake County Park, Novato (near Stafford Lake Dam). $8-$20. (415) 897-4555, www.forestfaire.com.

July 11

'Bay to Barkers' Help out the Berkeley-East Bay Humane Society and give your pooch a day to remember at an event including a 1.3 mile group dog walk, followed by a festival featuring a variety of contests, vendors, prize drawings, and more. 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Cesar Chavez Park, Berkeley Marina, University Ave. (off Hwy. 80). Berk. $25. (510) 845-7735, www.berkeleyhumane.org.

July 15-18

California WorldFest Music from around the world fills the seven stages of this fest, with Senegalese pop star Youssou N'Dour, Grammy-winning country-folk artist Lucinda Williams, and Australian guitarist Tommy Emmanuel among the highlights. Camping is available. 9 a.m., Nevada County Fairgrounds, Grass Valley. $5-$110. (530) 891-4098, www.worldfest.net.

July 17

'Books by the Bay' Celebrate independent booksellers at this ninth annual event, featuring authors, book panels, booths from local bookstores, children's activities, and more. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Yerba Buena Gardens, Fourth St. at Mission, S.F. Free. www.booksbythebay.com.

July 17-18

Connoisseur's Marketplace As the name implies, gourmet food is at the center of this festival, which also features two stages of music, cooking demonstrations, arts and crafts by 200 West Coast artists, a fun zone for kids, and more. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Santa Cruz between El Camino Real and Johnson, Menlo Park. Free. (650) 324-2818, www.miramarevents.com.

July 22-25

'Photo San Francisco' At this expo, more than 60 galleries and private dealers from the United States and Europe present all kinds of photographic art, from 19th-century prints to contemporary artwork; the event also includes lectures and seminars. An opening-night reception (July 22, 6-9 p.m., $50) benefits the Fort Mason Center Historic Preservation Fund. Fri.-Sat., noon-7 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m., Fort Mason Center, Marina at Laguna, S.F. $15 (three-day pass $25). (415) 345-7575, www.photosanfrancisco.net.

July 22-Aug. 9

San Francisco Jewish Film Festival The festival, now in its 24th year, is the oldest and biggest Jewish film fest in the world. Stay tuned to the Bay Guardian for complete coverage. www.sfjff.org.

July 23-25

Gilroy Garlic Festival Devotees of the stinking rose make pilgrimages to the garlic capital of the world for the annual fest, featuring a "gourmet alley" packed with food vendors (offering, of course, garlic bread, garlic jelly, garlic ice cream ... it's endless, really), continuous live music, and more. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Christmas Hill Park, 7050 Miller, Gilroy. $5-$10. (408) 842-1625, www.gilroygarlicfestival.com.

July 25

'Up Your Alley' fair Thousands of leather folk gather at this annual precursor to the Folsom Street Fair (Sept. 26). 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Dore Alley between Folsom and Howard, and Folsom between 9th and 10th Sts., S.F. Donations accepted. www.folsomstreetfair.com.

July 29-Aug. 8

Midsummer Mozart Festival Celebrate "Wolfie" at the annual classical festival; this year's program includes eight concerts in San Francisco, Berkeley, Sonoma, and the South Bay. www.midsummermozart.org.

July 31-Aug. 1

Berkeley Kite Festival and West Coast Kite Championships Gigantic kites "bigger than a house and longer than a train" are the attention-grabbers at this event, which also features kite-making activities, a kite ballet, a candy drop for kids, and more. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Cesar Chavez Park, Berkeley Marina, University Ave. (off Hwy. 80), Berk. Free. (510) 235-KITE.

'Sonoma Salute to the Arts' This fest, which salutes the "roots, beauty, and bounty of Sonoma County," features an Italian theme this year. The 19th annual event includes gourmet food, fine wine and art, live performances, and book signing by local authors. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sonoma Plaza, Sonoma. Free (tasting package $25). www.saltutetothearts.com.

Aug. 1

Chronicle Marathon Even if you're not up to the whole 26.2 miles (hey, if P. Diddy can run a marathon, anyone can!), San Francisco's annual long-distance haul features a fun run/walk, a half marathon, a relay, and other variations on the full race. www.chroniclemarathon.com.

Aug. 1-28

BATS Improv Summer Improv Festival The famed improvisational theater company hosts more than 100 performers in 22 shows on 24 days in its 10th-anniversary festival. 8 p.m., Bayfront Theater, Fort Mason Center, Marina at Laguna, S.F. $12. (415) 474-8935, www.improv.org.

Aug. 6-8

'Reggae on the River' Steel Pulse, Ozomatli, Bounty Killer, Michael Franti and Spearhead, Capleton, and a host of other reggae and roots acts play on the Eel River. 8 a.m. (gates open), French's Camp, off Hwy. 101 past Piercy exits, Humboldt County. $150 (three-day ticket). (707) 923-4583, www.reggaeontheriver.com.

Aug. 6-Sept. 17

'Fillmore Fridays' The Fillmore neighborhood plays host to a series of Friday evening concerts, spotlighting jazz, blues, and other musical styles. Fri., 5-8 p.m., Gene Suttle Plaza, Fillmore at O'Farrell, S.F. Free. (415) 441-6396, www.fillmorejazz.com.

Aug. 12-15

Hairrison Street Party This brand-new queer fest aims to draw "hunky, fun, and fuzzy men" to a variety of events, including parties, an "urban resort," and a street fair. www.hairrison.org.

Aug. 14-15

Nihonmachi Street Fair Head to Japantown for the 31st annual celebration of local Asian and Pacific Islander communities. Highlights include works by Asian artists, delicious food, live music and performance, the Asian American Bike Show, and more. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Japantown Center, Post and Webster, S.F. Free. (415) 771-9861, www.nihonmachistreetfair.org.

'Pistahan' The Yerba Buena Gardens host this fest honoring Filipino food, music, arts, and culture. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Yerba Buena Gardens, Fourth St. at Mission, S.F. Free. (415) 543-1718, www.ybgf.org.

Aug. 21-22

Front Row Festival Music, dance, art, food, wine, beer, and other attractions flood downtown Berkeley at this late-summer fiesta. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Addison at Shattuck, Berk. Free. www.downtownberkeley.org.