|
Wet hot American summer Our annual guide to summer fairs and festivals. By Keith Axline, Sarah Han, Elisa Jacobs, and Maya MelenchukTIMES 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. 24). Ongoing ArtSFest This festival of dance, theater, literature, film, visual art, and more celebrates the best of Bay Area art. Go to the Web site for more information and a schedule. Through May 30. (415) 626-6710, www.artsfestsf.org. Calistoga Farmers' Market This market features farm-fresh veggies, seasonal fruits, cheeses, premade foods, and gourmet items. Through Oct. 29. Sat., 8:30 a.m.-noon, 1546 Lincoln, Calistoga. Free. (707) 942-0808, calistogafarmermkt@sbcglobal.net. Fillmore Saturday Farmers' Market Support local merchants, artisans, nonprofits, and vendors at this weekly event featuring fresh produce, breads, flowers, a jazz cafe, and an art market. Through Nov. 19. Sat., 9 a.m.-1 p.m., O'Farrell and Fillmore, S.F. Free. (415) 441-6396, www.fillmorejazz.com. United States of Asian America Arts Festival San Francisco's Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Center presents this two-month-long arts event featuring works and performances by more than 12 Asian Pacific Islander organizations. Go to the Web site for a complete schedule. Through June 12. (415) 864-4126, www.apiculturalcenter.org. Yerba Buena Gardens Festival This festival hosts more than 150 free art, culture, and community events, including spoken word performances, an international music concert series, book festivals, dance and theater performances. Through Nov. 26. Yerba Buena Gardens, Fourth St. and Mission, S.F. Free. www.ybgf.org. May 12-15 Carmel Art Festival Art lovers are invited to this citywide festival that features a plein air painting competition, a sculpture-in-the-park exhibit, an "Art of the Dog" exhibit, demonstrations and lectures, a youth art show, and an auction of all the art that is displayed. Go to www.carmelartfestival.org for locations and a complete schedule. May 12-22 PlayGround Festival San Francisco playwright group PlayGround presents a showcase of seven short plays by emerging Bay Area playwrights. Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 7 p.m., Zeum Theater, Yerba Buena Gardens, 221 Fourth St., S.F. $15-$30, $40 for opening-night party. (415) 704-3177, www.playground-sf.org. May 13 'Buzz the Fuzz' This event celebrates San Francisco's police officers with live entertainment and more. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Justin Herman Plaza, S.F. Call for price. (415) 772-0730. May 13-15 Festival of Greece Immerse yourself in this extravaganza with fabulous food, music, and dancing, all atop a hill near Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-9 p.m., 4700 Lincoln, Oakl. $6. (510) 531-3400, www.ascensioncathedral.org. May 14-15 Castroville Artichoke Festival Whether you fry, sauté, grill, marinate, pickle, or cream them, artichokes are the belle of the ball at this party. And after you've eaten, check out the classic car show, RV jamboree, and fruit and vegetable art exhibit, and listen to live music. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Castroville. $3-$6. (831) 633-2465, www.artichokefestival.org. May 14-29 'Synapse' This experimental light, sound, and film series includes four programs: "Reverence," "Tropozone," "Sounds of the Soul: The Fez Festival of World Sacred Music," and "Alchemical Sound Tubes." 8 p.m., Cobalt Sun, 411A Columa, Sausalito. $15 an event. (415) 332-0340, www.cobaltsun.net. May 15 'Albertsons Bay to Breakers' Every year thousands of runners, many of them in costume or – gasp! – naked, participate in this 12K race that starts at the Embarcadero and ends at the ocean. Registration fees benefit organizations such as Organs 'R' Us, Sports Medicine Institute, and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. After the race, cool down and unwind at Footstock, an open-air music festival. Race starts 8 a.m., Howard and Spear, ends at Great Hwy. along Ocean Beach, S.F. Footstock 9:30-2 p.m., Golden Gate Park polo fields, S.F. Race registration $29.50-$40, Footstock free. www.baytobreakers.com. Asian Pacific Heritage Festival In conjunction with Asian Pacific Islander Month, the Bay Area Discovery Museum sponsors this festival featuring Asian Pacific art, cuisine, and performances by Taiko drummers, the Marin Chinese Cultural Association's Lion Dance Team, and others. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Bay Area Discovery Museum, 557 McReynolds Rd., Sausalito. Free. (415) 339-3900, www.baykidsmuseum.org. Jazz on Fourth Street Festival Fourth Street Merchants and Yoshi's at Jack London Square present this event benefiting the Berkeley High Jazz Ensemble; performers include Peter Apfelbaum, Palenque, Chris Cain, two Berkeley High School combos, and the Berkeley High Jazz Ensemble. Noon-5 p.m., Fourth St. between Hearst and Virginia, Berk. Free. (510) 526-6294. Wildflower, Art, and Garden Show Fremont's historic Niles District presents this festival featuring garden tours and other horticulturally focused events. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Niles and Main, Fremont. Admission free, $15 for garden tour. www.niles.org. May 17-19 'Filum 05: San Francisco Irish Film Festival' The Roxie Cinema hosts this year's Irish film fest, featuring Adam and Paul and the Halo Effect and a program of shorts. Go to Web site for times, Roxie Cinema, 3117 16th St., S.F. $10. (415) 495-7380, www.iaf.org. May 18-June 5 San Francisco International Arts Festival This event celebrates San Francisco's place as a center for artists and performers worldwide to share their works. It includes performances and works by the Royal New Zealand Ballet, David Dawson, Javier de Frutos, Mansaku no Kai Company, Mansai Nomura, Do Theatre, Peter Whitehead, Christian Burns, Byung Ki Hwang, and many others. Various venues, S.F. (415) 978-2787, www.ybca.org. May 21 Festivals of Saints Kiril and Metody This Bulgarian culture, arts, and community festival celebrates the saints who created the Cyrillic alphabet and translated the Bible for the Slavic people. Highlights include music, singing, dancing, and Bulgarian food and drink. 7 p.m., Croatian American Cultural Center, 60 Onondaga, S.F. $15. (510) 649-0941, www.slavonicweb.org. 'KFOG KaBoom!' This popular event features performances by Kathleen Edwards, the John Butler Trio, and headliners the Wallflowers, followed by an extravagant fireworks show. 4-10 p.m., Pier 30/32, S.F. Free. (415) 817-KFOG, www.kfog.com. Luther Burbank Rose Parade and Festival The theme of year's parade is "Reels and Roses," in celebration of Hollywood movies that were filmed in Sonoma County. The festival offers live music, food, children's activities, a rose bloom competition, and more. 9:50 a.m.-4 p.m., downtown Santa Rosa. Free. (707) 542-ROSE, www.roseparadefestival.com. Taiwanese American Cultural Festival Sample authentic Taiwanese "night market" food while enjoying performances, art and educational exhibits, and more. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Union Square, Powell and Geary, S.F. Free. (650) 965-7573, www.tafnc.org. May 21-22 'A la Carte and Art' Mountain View will be transformed into a scene of colorful tents and people promenading for this festival featuring great music, unique arts and crafts, gourmet food and wine, and family entertainment. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Castro between Church and Evelyn, Mountain View. Free. (650) 964-3395. Bay Area Storytelling Festival The nation's best raconteurs share folktales, fairy tales, ghost stories, tall tales, 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 Regional Recreation Area, San Pablo Dam Rd. near Castro Ranch Rd., El Sobrante. $11 (festival pass $55). (510) 644-2593, www.bayareastorytelling.org. Himalayan Fair This unique experience in diversity – featuring arts, antiques, crafts, live music, dance, and exotic food from the mountain cultures of Tibet, Nepal, India, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Mongolia –benefits humanitarian grassroots projects in the Himalayas. Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Live Oak Park, 1300 Shattuck, Berk. $8. (510) 869-3995, www.himalayanfair.net. Vintage Paper Fair One of the country's largest paper fairs has more than 100 booths selling antique photographs, postcards, magazines, and sports memorabilia. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Rd., Concord. Sat., $5; Sun., free. (323) 883-1702, www.vintagepaperfair.com. May 22 Asian Heritage Street Celebration This event celebrates Asian Pacific American Heritage Month with live entertainment, informational booths, food and beverages, and more. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Japan Center, Post and Fillmore, S.F. Free. www.asianfairsf.com. Polish Festival Enjoy traditional Polish folk music, dance, and food at this festival organized by the Polonia Foundation. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Golden Gate Park County Fair Building, Ninth Ave. and Lincoln, S.F. Free. (408) 396-3023, www.capolonia.com/polish_festival. May 22 and 27-28 Music for People and Thingamajigs Festival Experimental and new music fans will get a kick out of this fest devoted to weird instruments. Highlights include a Garden of Thingamajigs sculpture at the Oakland Museum of California and two concerts at the Oakland Metro. Sun., 1-4 p.m., Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak, Oakl. $5-$8 museum admission. (510) 238-2200. Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m., Oakland Metro, 201 Broadway, Oakl. $5-$10. (415) 608-1116, www.thingamajigs.org. May 26-29 Sonoma Jazz Plus Festival Celebrate Memorial Day weekend with Isaac Hayes, Mavis Staples, Diana Krall, Tony Bennett, Boz Scaggs, Steve Winwood, Regina Carter, and Lizz Wright. In addition to the performances, the festival features gourmet food and wine. Various times, Field of Dreams, 179 First St. W., Sonoma. $35-$85. 1-866-527-8499, www.sonomajazz.org. May 27-30 Folk Music Campout Set up camp, bring an instrument, and sing songs around the campfire with the San Francisco Folk Music Club. Fri., 2 p.m.-Mon., noon, Anthony Chabot Regional Park, Bort Meadow, Hayward. $2-$5 a night. (415) 661-2217, sffolk@aol.com. May 28 'Chocolate and Chalk Art on Solano' Spend a day in Albany sidestepping sidewalk masterpieces and indulging in chocolate-inspired concoctions such as chocolate fried wontons, chocolate raspberry body paint, chocolate covered ants, and traditional chocolate cake and brownies for the squeamish. Adding to the festivities are street poets, music, and pets for adoption. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Solano Ave., Albany and Berk. Free. (510) 527-5358, www.solanoave.org. Northern California Rhythm and Brews Festival This year marks the 10th anniversary of this festival touting the world's finest microbrewed and imported beer. Sip away while listening to performances by the Rolling Boil Blues Band, Hip Service, the Fundamentals, and Hot for Teacher. 1-6 p.m., Travis Credit Union Park, 1691 E. Monte Vista, Vacaville. $10-$25. www.agreatbrewfest.com. May 28-29 Bay Street Beat Arts and Music Festival This weekend festival features arts and craft displays, a wine and beer garden, food samples and vendors from Bay Street restaurants, a children's activity area, and live music. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Bay St. at Shellmound and Christie, Emeryville. Free. (510) 655-4002, www.baystreetemeryville.com. Carnaval San Francisco The Mission District celebrates Carnaval with music, food, dance, crafts, and a parade featuring lavish floats, costumed dancers, international musicians, colorful paraders, and contingents of local schoolchildren and youths. Festival 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Harrison between 16th and 23rd Sts.; parade Sun., 9:30 a.m., starts at 24th St. and Bryant, heads north to 17th St. and Mission, S.F. (415) 920-0125, www.carnavalsf.com. 'Civil War Days' This reenactment of the American Civil War takes place on a re-created battlefield, complete with army camp, civilian settlements, and vendors from the 1800s. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., battles 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Ardenwood Historic Farm, 34600 Ardenwood, Fremont. $5-$8. (510) 796-0663, www.ebparks.com. Santa Cruz Blues Festival Experience the best in modern rhythm and blues, blues rock, political blues, honky-tonk, and soul this Memorial Day weekend as 10 performers over two days perform in a natural amphitheater surrounded by oaks and redwoods. Booths with quintessential fare and beverages will keep you nourished as you kick back and enjoy the music. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., 100 Aptos Creek Rd., Aptos. $35-$60. (831) 479-9814, www.santacruzbluesfestival.com. May 28-30 Boulder Creek Art and Wine Festival This four-block-long festival features two music stages, strolling performers, a food court, and wines from more than 15 California wineries. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Hwy. 9 between Scarborough Lumber and San Lorenzo River Bridge, Boulder Creek. Free. www.bcba.net. San Francisco Cup International Youth Soccer Tournament This premier soccer tournament features world-class youth teams. 8:30 a.m., Golden Gate Park, Kezar Stadium and Polo Fields, S.F. (415) 751-8801, www.sfcup.com. May 29 Caledonia Street Fair Globe trot in just six blocks at this fair offering crafts, food, art, and entertainment from around the world. Pancake breakfast 7 a.m.-1 p.m., fair 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Caledonia St., Sausalito. Free. www.ci.sausalito.ca.us. June 1-30 National Queer Arts Festival This festival celebrates its eighth year with a "QBall" opening gala and dance party (June 4) and, as usual, the best in music and dance performances, visual art, spoken word, theater, and film by queer established and emerging artists. www.queerculturalcenter.org. June 1-Aug. 31 'Summer Sounds' For the fan with eclectic musical tastes who doesn't want to run all over town each week to see a show, the Oakland City Center Plaza offers a weekly showcase featuring a variety of styles, including singer-songwriter, Brazilian, Motown, and jazz. Wed., noon-1 p.m., Oakland City Center (adjacent to 12th St./City Center BART station), Oakl. Free. www.oaklandcitycenter.com. June 2-5 Contra Costa County Fair Carnival rides, Elvis and Roy Orbison impersonators, a truck show, livestock exhibits, and music by the Cheeseballs and Foghat are highlights of this county fair. Thurs., noon-9:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sun., 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Contra Costa County Fairgrounds, 10th and L Sts., Antioch. $4-$7. (925) 779-7916, www.ccfair.org. June 2-July 28 Summer Noon Concerts Enjoy free outdoor concerts hosted by the Downtown Berkeley Association. Thurs., noon-1 p.m., downtown Berkeley BART plaza, Berk. Free. www.downtownberkeley.org. June 2-Oct. 12 SF Jazz Summerfest This series of free outdoor concerts in parks and urban centers features fascinating local and national jazz acts. Performers include up-and-coming and established artists. www.sfjazz.org/concerts/outdoors.html. June 3-5 Berkeley Edge Fest Cal Performances presents this three-day new music showcase featuring work by John Zorn, Terry Riley, Jorge Liderman, Fernando Benadon, Renold Tharp, Keeril Makan, and Adirana Verdie performed by Zorn, Riley, Liderman, Jennifer Choi, Richard O'Neill, Fred Sherry, Mark Feldman, the Crowley Quartet, Brian Sacawa, and others. Fri. and Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 and 7:30 p.m., UC Berkeley, Hertz Hall, Bancroft and College, Berk. $26-$32. (510) 642-9988. June 3-12 Healdsburg Jazz Festival This weeklong jazz festival features performances by Kenny Barron, Regina Carter, Gary Burton's Generations Band, Claudia Villela, and others; gourmet foods; and award-winning wines. Various venues in and around Healdsburg. Go to www.healdsburgjazzfestival.com for details. June 4 Berkeley Farmers' Market's Family Fun Festival Bring the little ones to this event featuring informational booths, hands-on activities, and performances by Maggie the Clown, Samora and Elena Punderhughes, Crowden School Student Classical String Ensemble, Asheba, Kids on the Block puppeteers, and drill-team squad the Flaming Five. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Civic Center Park, Berkeley Farmers' Market, Center and MLK Jr., Berk. Free. (510) 548-3333, www.ecologycenter.org. Sonoma Valley Vintage Race Car Festival This is the one time when alcohol and cars should be enjoyed together. Feast on wine and gourmet foods (included in the ticket price) and then feast your eyes on some classic speedsters. 5 p.m., Sonoma Plaza, Sonoma. $30. (707) 996-1090. Wildlife Fair The 19th annual Wildlife Fair celebrates the diversity of the animal world with presentations, games, musical entertainment, food, crafts, and more. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sulphur Creek Nature Center, 1801 D St., Hayward. $6, $20 for families of four or more. (510) 881-6747. June 4-5 Art Deco and Modernism Sale The biannual art sale brings more than 200 dealers from around the country, peddling furniture, art, books, jewelry, vintage clothing, and more dating from 1900 to 1980. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Concourse Exhibition Center, Eighth St. and Brannan, S.F. $7-$9. (650) 599-DECO, www.artdecosale.com. 'Art in the Avenues' Artists from the Sunset Artists Society and the Park Presidio Art Association present their works at this exhibition and sale. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Golden Gate Park, Hall of Flowers, Ninth Ave. and Lincoln, S.F. Free. www.sunsetartists.com. Great San Francisco Crystal Fair With more than 40 vendors, buyers get their pick of crystals, minerals, beads, and jewelry at this fair. Those interested can also learn more about crystals and their role in the mystical art of healing. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Fort Mason Center, Marina and Laguna, S.F. $5. (415) 383-7837, www.crystalfair.com. Marin Home Show and Benefit Jazz Fest Not quite sure how to cheer up your lackluster dining room? Well, now you can learn how, and all while cutting the rug to some great jazz. The home show and jazz fest will put home-improvement ideas and jazz performances at your fingertips and your dancing shoes, respectively. Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Marin Center, Exhibit Hall and Fairgrounds, Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. $7. (415) 472-3500, www.marinhomeshow.com. Union Street Festival One of the largest free art festivals in the city, this event includes art and gourmet food booths, live entertainment, and beer and wine gardens. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Union between Gough and Steiner, S.F. Free. 1-800-310-6563, www.unionstreetfestival.com. June 4-12 East Bay Open Studios Every June, East Bay artists open their work spaces to the public to sell their art, meet their admirers, and gain exposure. A preview exhibition of works will also be up until June 12 at the Pro Arts Gallery, and the Art Bus will give an exclusive evening tour of works by several artists featured in the event. The evening includes private previews of artist studios, wine, and hors d'oeuvres. Open Studios June 4-5 and 11-12, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., various locations. Gallery exhibit Wed.-Sat., noon-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m., Pro Arts Gallery, 550 Second St., Oakl. Free. Art Bus tour June 3, 6 p.m.; June 4-5, 1-4 p.m., $75. www.proartsgallery.org. June 5 'Israel in the Gardens' Celebrate Israel in the Yerba Buena Gardens with a concert featuring Israeli rock band Mashina, an Israeli fashion show, Israeli cuisine, arts and crafts booths, and more. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Yerba Buena Gardens, 700 Howard, S.F. Free. www.israelcentersf.org. San Francisco Accordion Festival Celebrate National Accordion Awareness Month with a day of klezmer and polka, as well as accordion stylings from China and Ireland. If the ol' pump piano is good enough for the likes of Billy Joel and Lucy Liu, then it's good enough for you. Noon-6 p.m., Del Monte Square Courtyard, 2801 Leavenworth, S.F. Free. www.delmontesquare.com. 'A Taste of Albany – A Small-Town Walkabout' Stroll down the streets of Albany, where you can sample food from Albany restaurants, hear live music, and watch local entertainers perform. 1-7 p.m., Solano and San Pablo, Albany. Free. (510) 525-1771, www.albanychamber.org. June 5-12 Mission Creek Music Festival One of the largest indie music festivals of the summer – including Hey Willpower!, the Mall, Veronica Lipgloss, Eats Tapes, and others – takes place at venues all over town. www.mcmf.org. June 8-12 San Francisco Black Film Festival Submissions from around the world form a collage of the global black community through film. (415) 771-9271, www.sfbff.org. June 9-12 Festival of Cultures Downtown San Jose comes alive with multicultural arts performances by jazz groups Dahveed Behroozi Trio and Claudia Villela Ensemble, a dance performance by Visual Rhythm Dance Company and guests, music by the Firebird Youth Chinese Orchestra and Kawaihlehua Hula Ohana, and others. Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m. (also Sat., 2 p.m.); Sun., 2 p.m., California Theatre, 345 South First St., San Jose. $22-$32. www.sanjosejazz.org, www.ticketmaster.com. June 10-12 Bluegrass Festival Roaring Camp Railroads presents a family-oriented festival featuring performances, workshops, open mic sessions, steam train rides, and an old-fashioned chuck wagon; performers include Sarah Elizabeth Campbell, Joe Craven, Faux Renwah, Sherry Austin, and the Abbott Family. Fri., 5-10 p.m.; Sat., noon-9 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m., Roaring Camp Railroads, Graham Hill Rd. and Mt. Herman Rd., Felton. $13. 1-888-253-8368, www.roaringcamp.com. June 11 Celtic Festival Come to the Ardenwood Historic Farm to sample Celtic food, watch traditional dancing, hear music, and learn Celtic history. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Ardenwood Historic Farm, 20800 Ardenwood, Fremont, $5-$9.50. (510) 429-6880, www.ardenwood-celtic-festival.com. La Peña Cultural Center street party The Berkeley community space dedicated to progressive arts and culture presents this street party in celebration of its 30th anniversary. Highlights include food and refreshments, community and arts exhibits, children's activities, and performances by Jesus Diaz y Su QBA, Pacha Sukus, La Familia, and others. Noon-6 p.m., Shattuck and Prince, Berk. Free. (510) 849-2568, www.lapena.org. Sand Castle/Sand Sculpture Contest Dust off the pail and shovel (though they're probably just going get sandy anyway) – it's time for the annual sand castle and sand sculpting competition. We're hoping to see a sand version of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Registration 9 a.m., viewing and judging noon, awards 1 p.m., Robert Crown Memorial State Beach, Westline and Otis, Alameda. Free. (510) 747-7529, www.ci.alameda.ca.us. June 11-12 'Art in the Park' The 35th annual fest promises art, crafts, food, and an altogether fine time. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Washington Park, Carolan and Burlingame, Burlingame. Free. (650) 558-7300, www.burlingame.org. Live Oak Park Fair For the past 35 years, North Berkeley has been host to this event where fairgoers can enjoy more than 100 booths showcasing original artistic talent, jazz by Berkeley's Jazzschool, and food. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Live Oak Park, 1301 Shattuck, Berk. Free. www.liveoakparkfair.com. Harmony Festival Come celebrate progressive culture at this ecologically minded music and arts fest. Visit the Eco-Village, the Crafters Village, and Global Bazaar and jam to the likes of the Nu Ladies of Funk, George Clinton, the Family Stone Experience, the Hot Buttered Rum String Band, and others. Sat., 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Sonoma County Fairgrounds, 1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. $25-$60. (707) 861-2035, www.harmonyfestival.com. Italian Street Painting Festival Watch sidewalk Raphaels and Michelangelos transform asphalt into art using chalk on the streets of San Rafael. Music and food also make appearances at this artsy block party. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Fifth Ave. and A St., San Rafael. Free. (415) 457-4878, ext. 15; www.youthinarts.org. San Jose Gay Pride Celebration San Jose celebrates its gay community with two days of events that include a community day in the park, a festival with two dance stages and 175 vendors, strolling performers, a food court, and a fabulous parade. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; parade Sun., 10:30 a.m., Guadalupe River Park, Discovery Meadow, San Jose. Free. www.sjgaypride.org. June 11-26 San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival Twenty-nine groups from around the globe get their groove on at this event. See ritual Andean dances, rare ancient hula, Scottish step dancing, classical Indian odissi dance, and much more. Sat.-Sun., 2 p.m. (also Sat., 8 p.m.; June 26, 7 p.m.), Palace of Fine Arts, 3301 Lyon, S.F. $22-$36. (415) 392-4400, www.worldartswest.org. June 12 Haight Ashbury Street Fair Music, arts, crafts, and food bring revelers to this historic intersection for annual fun in the sun. 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Haight between Masonic and Stanyan, S.F. Free. www.haightstreetfair.org. June 16-18 Transgender and Queer Performance Festival Fresh Meat Productions presents this annual event featuring music, dance, and much more by transgender and queer performers Sean Dorsey, Miguel Chernus-Goldstein, Ryka Aoki de la Cruz, Harlem Shake Burlesque, Thea Hillman, Johnnie Pratt, Turner Schofield, and others. Thurs.-Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., ODC Theater, 3153 17th St., S.F. $15. (415) 863-9834, www.freshmeatproductions.org. June 16-26 San Francisco International Lesbian and Gay Film Festival The film festival by and about the LGBT community continues with a whole new program of innovative queer cinema. www.frameline.org. June 17-19 Sierra Nevada World Music Festival Toots and the Maytals, Steel Pulse, Luciano, Morgan Heritage, Turbulence, and other reggae and dancehall performers entertain at this annual fest. Camping is available for an additional charge ($35-$175). Fri., 5 p.m.-midnight; Sat., 11 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Angels Camp, Frogtown (off Hwy. 49), Calaveras County. $100 (three-day pass). (916) 649-TIXS, www.snwmf.com. June 18 Campbell Scottish Highland Games If you can't make it to Brigadoon this year, head on down to the annual Highland Games, where you can hear pipe bands, see country dancers, hear traditional music, and throw some rather large wooden poles around in the caber toss. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Campbell Community Center, 1 W. Campbell, Campbell. $8-$12. (408) 219-9264, (408) 578-0929, www.campbellgames.com. Summer Solstice Celebration This craft fair features live music by Daniel Berkman, the Sons and Daughters of Orpheus, and the Wild Buds. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Berkeley Farmers' Market, Civic Center Park, Center and MLK Jr., Berk. Free. (510) 548-3333, www.ecologycenter.org. Temescal Street Fair Performers at this street fair include the Stairwell Sisters, La Familia, Junglz Apart, Destiny Arts, the Aikido Institute, Derique, Asheba, the Mixcaotl Anahuac Aztec Dancers, and others. Noon-6 p.m., Telegraph between 51st and 48th Sts., Oakl. Free. (510) 593-9831. June 18-19 Danville Fine Arts Faire With arts and crafts, Italian street painting, and food and drink, attendees at this outdoor fest will have no problem amusing themselves. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Hartz Ave., Danville. Free. (925) 837-4400. www.danvillecachamber.com. Marin Art Festival This outdoor lawn festival boasts displays by more than 250 artists, live jazz, wine tasting, stilt walkers, and food. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Marin Center, Lagoon Park, Avenue of the Flags and Civic Center, San Rafael. $8. (415) 388-0151, www.marinartfestival.com. North Beach Festival The historic Italian neighborhood celebrates the festival's 51st anniversary with arts and crafts, a celebrity pizza toss, live music and dancing, celebrity chefs, animal blessings (2 p.m., Vallejo at Columbus), an Italian street chalk art competition (1500 block of Stockton), and more. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Washington Square Park, 1200-1500 blocks of Grant, and adjacent streets, S.F. Free. (415) 989-2220, www.sfnorthbeach.org/festival. Russian River Blues Festival Blues giants Al Green, Los Lobos, Earl Thomas, Ike Turner and the Kings of Rhythm, Coco Montoya, and others perform. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Russian River Resort Area (off Hwy. 101; take River Rd. exit), Guerneville. $45-$130 (both days $85-$225). (510) 655-9471, www.russianriverbluesfest.com. San Francisco Free Folk Festival This festival features performances by national and local folkies including Loose Cannons, the World Harmony Chorus, and Ray Bierl; dance and music workshops; and more. Sat., noon-10:30 p.m.; Sun., noon-9:50 p.m., Roosevelt Middle School, 460 Arguello, S.F. Free. www.sffolkfest.org. San Francisco Juneteenth celebration San Francisco celebrates the historic end to slavery with this festival featuring live music, a parade, arts and crafts, food booths, and more. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Fillmore between O'Farrell and Turk; parade Sat. (go to Web site for time), starts at Duboce Park, Steiner and Herman, S.F. Free. www.sfjuneteenth.org. June 19 Native Contemporary Arts Festival Enjoy live music by L. Frank Manriquez and Istuyee Ras K'Dee, spoken word by M.B. Child, and a performance by Medicine Warriors Dancers, along with Native American arts, crafts, and food. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Yerba Buena Gardens, Fourth St. and Mission, S.F. Free. (415) 543-1718, www.ybgf.org. June 19-Aug. 21 Stern Grove Music Festival Enjoy the fruits of a beautiful $15 million renovation with free outdoor concerts every Sunday by acts such as Lucinda Williams, the Funk Brothers, and the Dirty Dozen Brass Band. Sun., 2 p.m., 19th Ave. and Sloat, S.F. Free. (415) 252-6252, www.sterngrove.org. June 20-July 10 Alameda County Fair Bring the family to this carnival-style fair featuring rides and games, exhibits, a karaoke contest, and performances by top acts including the Village People, AC/DShe, Carrot Top, and Starship. 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.-8:30 p.m.), Alameda County Fairgrounds, 4501 Pleasanton, Pleasanton. $6-$9. (925) 734-5273, www.alamedacountyfair.com. June 21-26 Ensemble Theater Festival Ensemble Theater presents a festival set in various venues in historic Blue Lake and featuring the works of Campo Santo, San Francisco Mime Troupe, Traveling Jewish Theatre, and Cultural Odyssey. (707) 668-5663, www.ensembletheaters.net. June 22-26 Sonoma-Marin Fair This family-oriented fair's theme is "Say Cheese," and that means be prepared to eat, roll, and carve all the cheese you can handle. Other highlights include a world's-ugliest-dog contest, animal attractions, a giant bike stunt show, tractor races, and performances by the Stingers, AC/DShe, Smash Mouth, Josh Turner, Elaine Lucia Trio, Elvin Bishop, and Charlie Musselwhite. Noon-midnight, Petaluma Fairgrounds, Washington St. exit off Hwy. 101, Petaluma. $8-$14. (707) 283-FAIR, www.sonoma-marinfair.org. June 24-26 Kate Wolf Memorial Music Festival This tribute to singer-songwriter Kate Wolf features performances by Donovan, Robert Earl King, and Richard Thompson, to name a few. Don't miss the Kate Wolf Song Set on Saturday evening, hosted by Nina Gerber, in which various artists perform a few of Wolf's songs. Fri., 1 p.m.-midnight; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Black Oak Ranch, Laytonville (off Hwy. 101). $35-$130. (707) 829-7067, www.monitor.net/kate. June 24-Sept. 2 Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk concerts Make your way to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for its Friday-night concerts, including performances by Rose Royce, Eddie Money, the Fixx, and Survivor. 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach, Santa Cruz. Free. www.beachboardwalk.com. June 25 Dyke March The lesbians are coming! To march in the San Francisco chapter of this nationally coordinated rally. Speakers convene at the stage beforehand to revive the battle against racism and oppression. Rally and stage show 3 p.m., march 7 p.m., Dolores Park, Dolores and 18th St., S.F. Free. (415) 241-8882, www.dykemarch.org. Sixth Street Community Fair Local musicians, including Poco Loco and Candy from Strangers, gather with government and nonprofit organizations to provide entertainment for fairgoers, as well as housing, employment, and hygienic services for the homeless. There will also be a food giveaway with hot dogs and produce. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Sixth St. between Mission and Howard, S.F. Free. (415) 538-8100, ext. 202. June 25-June 26 San Anselmo Art and Design Festival The San Anselmo Chamber of Commerce presents this event dedicated to cooking, home, and landscape design, featuring displays by more than 200 artists, gourmet food booths, live entertainment, and more. 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 Pride One of biggest LGBT festivals in the world attracts musical acts such as Chaka Khan, the B-52's, and Joan Baez on one of almost a dozen stages. This is only after a giant parade – led by the Women's Motorcycle Contingent and celebrity grand marshals, including Ilene Chaiken (creator of The L Word) and local drag personality Juanita More! – takes Market Street by storm. It's parties like this that earn S.F. its reputation as a gay mecca. Celebration Sat., noon-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-7 p.m., Civic Center, Larkin between Grove and McAllister; parade Sun., 10:30 a.m., Civic Center, S.F. Free. (415) 864-3733, www.sfpride.org. June 25-Sept. 16 Concert in the Hills Series This year's series boasts performers such as Carlos Reyes and the Electric Orchestra (June 25), Gator Beat (July 23), the Sun Kings (Aug. 13), and the Fundamentals (Sept. 16). 7 p.m., Cal State East Bay, Concord Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Concord. Free. (925) 602-8654, concord.csueastbay.edu/concertinthehills.htm. June 26-Aug. 6 Stanford Jazz Festival Mulgrew Miller, Slide Hampton, Curtis Fuller, Toshiko Akiyoshi, Don Friedman, David "Fathead" Newman, Houston Person, and others play at Stanford's respected jazz fest. (650) 736-0324, info@stanfordjazz.org, www.ticketweb.com. June 30-July 3 High Sierra Music Festival Jam band and nature fans will jump for joy at this music and camping festival featuring performances by Gov't Mule, Michael Franti and Spearhead, Yonder Mountain String Band, Les Claypool, Karl Denson's Tiny Universe, and many others. 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 Rd., Quincy. $20-$175. (510) 420-1529, www.highsierramusic.com. June 30-July 4 Marin County Fair The fair celebrates its 60th year with exhibits, rides and attractions, a fireworks display, a petting zoo, dance and performance contests, and entertainment by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Huey Lewis and the News, Starship, Pablo Cruise, the Spinners, and others. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Marin Center, Avenue of the Flags and Civic Center, San Rafael. $10-$12. (415) 499-6800, www.marinfair.org. July 2-3 Fillmore Street Jazz Festival San Francisco's jazz district celebrates its colorful and melodious history with a two-day festival featuring contemporary and traditional concerts, food vendors, arts and crafts, and much more. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Fillmore between Jackson and Eddy, S.F. Free. 1-800-731-0003, www.fillmorejazzfestival.com. July 2-4 San Francisco Mime Troupe The city's favorite mime group opens its season with three performances of Doing Good, a play based on John Perkins's Confessions of an Economic Hit Man. 1:30 p.m., Dolores Park, 18th St. and Dolores, S.F. Free. (415) 285-1717, www.sfmt.org. July 4 San Francisco Fourth of July waterfront celebration San Francisco's famous celebration features live music, kids activities, and a dazzling fireworks show. Noon-9 p.m., Pier 39, Embarcadero and Beach, S.F. Free. (415) 705-5500, www.pier39.com. July 8-10 San Francisco Silent Film Festival If the only sound you like accompanying your movies is a Wurlitzer organ, this festival is for you! Now in its 10th year, it features screenings of Street Angel, Blackmail, and The Phantom of the Opera. Go to the Web site for a schedule. Castro Theatre, 429 Castro, S.F. Call for prices. (415) 777-4908, www.silentfilm.org. July 9-10 Los Altos Art and Wine Festival Enjoy original art; music and entertainment on three stages; gourmet food; and lots of fine wine. Sat., 10 a.m.- p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Main and State, Los Altos. Free. www.losaltos-downtown.org. July 9-Aug. 14 Heart of the Forest Renaissance Faire Give in to your inner knight, maiden, wench, or squire, and come to this popular celebration featuring costumed performers, arts and crafts, food, and interactive booths. Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Stafford Lake Park, 3549 Novato, Novato. $8-$20. (415) 897-4555, www.forestfaire.com. July 12-23 Mendocino Music Festival This classical and contemporary music festival features works by Rossini, Mozart, Dvorák, Vivaldi, and others performed by Helene Wickett, Roy Malan, Susan Waterfall, David Kadarauch, Allen Shearer, Mark O'Connor, and others. 8 p.m., various venues, Mendocino. $15-$40. (707) 937-2044, www.mendocinomusic.com. July 14-17 World California Fest This festival presents seven stages of music, featuring performances by Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Mariachi Los Camperos, the Waifs, Alasdair Fraser, Quetzal, O-Maya, and Jackie Greene. Camping is encouraged. Nevada County Fairgrounds, off Hwy. 49 N., Grass Valley. $20-$125. (530) 891-4098, www.worldfest.net. July 14-24 Midsummer Mozart Festival This all-Mozart concert series features two programs: Program I has a French-accented theme; Program II features pianist Claude Frank and is dedicated to his late wife, Lilian Kallir. Other featured artists include Christina Major, Maria Basile, Robin Hansen, and Victor Romasevich. Concerts take place at various venues around the bay. www.midsummermozart.org. July 17-18 Connoisseur's Marketplace This annual midsummer festival features two stages of soul, jazz, R&B, and swing music; art and handmade crafts; celebrity chef demonstrations; international cuisine; and fun for the kiddies. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Santa Cruz Ave. between El Camino Real and Johnson, Menlo Park. Free. (650) 325-2818, www.miramarevents.com. July 21-24 'Photo San Francisco' More than 80 galleries and private dealers converge at this exposition featuring works by international photographers from the 19th century to today. It also includes a reception (July 21) and a lecture and seminar series. Reception July 21, 6-9 p.m., $50; Fri.-Sat., noon-7 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m., Fort Mason Center, Marina and Laguna, S.F. $15-$25. (415) 345-7575, www.photosanfrancisco.net. July 21-Aug. 8 San Francisco Jewish Film Festival The festival celebrates its 25th anniversary. www.sfjff.org. July 23 'Books by the Bay' Attention, bibliophiles! This festival is for you. Check out poetry readings, panel discussions, author signings and appearances, and books from more than 40 independent booksellers. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Yerba Buena Gardens, Fourth St. and Mission, S.F. Free. www.booksbythebay.com. Urban Youth Arts Festival Precita Eyes Muralists celebrate youth mural art (traditional and aerosol styles) at this festival featuring live mural performances, music, and break-dancing. 1-5 p.m., Precita Park, Precita and Folsom, S.F. Free. (415) 285-2287, www.precitaeyes.org. July 29-31 Gilroy Garlic Festival Feel free to breathe openly and freely at this everything-garlic festival, because your neighbors will be chowing down on as much bulbous goodness as you. Highlights include food, cook-offs, music, and children's activities. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Christmas Hill Park, off Hwy. 101, Gilroy. $6-$12. (408) 842-1625, www.gilroygarlicfestival.com. July 31 Chronicle Marathon Get on your running shoes and hustle for this 26.2-mile race. For those who maybe aren't up to speed for that challenge, there's also a half marathon, a 5K, and a "progressive marathon" (see Web site for details). This year's race includes the Golden Gate Bridge on its course. 5:30 a.m., begins and ends at Ferry Bldg., Market and Embarcadero, S.F. $91 to compete. (415) 284-9653, www.chroniclemarathon.com. 'Up Your Alley' Hundreds of naughty and nice leather-lovin' folks come out to this annual precursor to the Folsom Street Fair. 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. Aug. 5-7 'Reggae on the River' This year's roots and reggae fest features
Anthony B, Daara J, Dezarie, Emeline Michel, Lyrics Born, Maxi Priest,
O-Maya, Ozomatli, Prezident Brown, Fifth Element, Rupee, Tony Rebel, Transglobal
Underground, and Tre Hardson. 8 a.m., French's Camp, off Hwy. 101 past
Piercy exit, Humboldt County. $150. (707) 923-4583, www.reggaeontheriver.com.
Aug. 6-7
Historic House Tour on Angel Island Take a guided tour of century-old Victorian homes with costumed docents on Angel Island. Enjoy drinks and delicacies of the period and watch carpentry and demonstrations of unusual Victorian household tools. 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Angel Island, $5-$15. (415) 435-3522, www.angelisland.org. Aug. 11-14 Comcast San Jose Jazz Festival Acclaimed jazz artists – including Eddie Palmieri, Poncho Sanchez, the Bad Plus, and more than 80 others – perform at this festival featuring nine stages of entertainment. Thurs., 8:30 p.m. (call for price); Fri., 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m.; Sat., noon-1:30 p.m.; Sun., noon-6:30 p.m., in and around Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park, San Jose. Free. (408) 288-7557, www.sanjosejazz.org. Redwood Empire Fair Bring the family to this old-fashioned fair featuring a car show, rides, and much more. Call for hours, Redwood Empire Fairgrounds, 1055 N. State, Ukiah. (707) 462-3884, www.redwoodempirefair.com. Aug. 13-14 Nihonmachi Street Fair Japantown's annual celebration of the Bay Area's Asian and Pacific Islander communities features educational booths and programs, local musicians and entertainers, exhibits and booths by local Asian artisans, and much more. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Japantown Center, Post and Webster, S.F. Free. (415) 771-9861, www.nihonmachistreetfair.org. 'Pistahan' The Bay Area Filipino festival of arts, culture, and cuisine features arts and crafts, live entertainment, food booths, and more. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Yerba Buena Gardens, Esplanade Gardens, 700 Howard, S.F. Free. www.ybgf.org. Aug. 18-21 Hairrison Street Party Back for its second year, this queer festival lures fuzzy hunks with a live music stage featuring queer rock and alternative bands, a tented beer garden, DJs guaranteed to help bears bust a move, and more. www.hairrison.org. |
||||