Looking for something to do in the South Bay? With so many offerings in the area, we’ve curated five of the annual events you can’t miss. Less researching and more enjoying your time in the area. Enjoy!
4th of July Fireworks Spectacular with San Francisco Symphony
One of Northern California’s longest-running fireworks events is at Mountain View’s Shoreline Amphitheatre on July 4th, a special celebration with the San Francisco Symphony. At dusk, one of the area’s largest fireworks displays begins off with a bang, set to symphony music above the backdrop of Shoreline Amphitheatre.
More info: livenation.com
Los Gatos Art and Wine Festival
On the second weekend of July, downtown Los Altos hosts one of the Bay Area’s largest midsummer events. The two-day Los Gatos Art + Wine Festival showcases 300 artists’ handcrafted works, attracting makers from a dozen states. Concerts on two stages, kid-zone, food and California wines poured by the glass.
More info: pacificfinearts.com
Gilroy Garlic Festival
On the last full weekend in July, the Gilroy Garlic Festival is a major community event organized by the “Garlic Capital of the World.” In keeping with more than 40 years of tradition, there’s a festival queen and a python-chef cook-off, plus every kind of food imaginable. Garlic ice cream and garlic fries are fan favorites
More info: gilroygarlicfestivalassociation.com
San Jose Jazz Summer Fest
For more than 30 years, Summer Fest has been attracting jazz lovers…plus blues, R&B, Latin, New Orleans, and more. With the main stage centered at Plaza de César Chavez in downtown San Jose, all six stages for 70-plus performers are within walking distance. Arts & crafts, food Dates: Aug. 12-14, 2022.
More info: summerfest.sanjosejazz.org
Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival
Half Moon Bay is home of the pumpkin. On a peak harvest weekend in mid-October, this Main Street festival salutes pumpkins, carving skills, art, food, wine, and community. The heaviest of the giant gourds — typically over a ton — is crowned the winner after a weigh-off and then The Great Pumpkin Parade is on.
More info: pumpkinfest.miramarevents.com
Looking for more things to do in the area?
Visit our What to Do in Northern California page!
