Best Things to Do in the Bay Area This August

Looking for things to do in the San Francisco Bay Area this August? With so many offerings in the region, we’ve curated the top events this month so you don’t have to. Here are back-to-back happenings to help you plan for this month, whether you’re spending an exciting weekend in San Francisco, taking a getaway to West Marin or trying to to shake up your week in the South Bay.

August is a great month to visit the Bay Area. Towns and cities put on countless street fairs and outdoor events to soak up the warm weather, and the internationally famous Outside Lands music festival returns to Golden Gate Park. August is also a big month for foodies, as food and cultural festivals hit SF, the East Bay and South Bay. 

For even more coverage of the Bay Area, plus where to stay and eat while you’re here, check out our region-specific guides to help you travel like a local. In the meantime, click any of the images below to learn what to do in the Bay Area this August. 

Featured photo: Outside Lands by Alive Coverage.

San Francisco

Outside Lands, a Filipino culture parade, theater festivals and more.

A group of six young people, smiling and dressed in colorful, traditional clothing with cultural headpieces and accessories, pose together outdoors. There are flags waving in the background and a building behind them under a clear blue sky—perfect inspiration for things to do in San Francisco this August.
Photo: Courtesy of Caleb Jones

North Bay

Free National Parks Day, live music at Lagunitas Brewing and more excellent events.

A diverse group of five people sit on a wooden bench in a forest, with tall trees in the background. One person is in a wheelchair, while others wear hats and casual clothing. Dappled sunlight filters through the trees, creating a peaceful, serene atmosphere—perfect for discussing things to do in San Francisco this August.
Photo by Kirke Wrench.

East Bay

A vegan food fair, bike parties and Oakland’s World Music Festival.

A young child joyfully playing with bubbles at an outdoor event, showcasing one of the best things to do in the Bay Area this August. The child is wearing a red and white shirt with a graphic on it. Several other people, including a person in a red hoodie, are also visible in the background enjoying the sunny day.
Photo courtesy of Laurel District Association.

South Bay

Dog Surfing Championships, an Italian festa and San Jose’s Jazz Summer Fest.

Three dogs wearing life jackets ride a green surfboard on a wave—one of the best things to do in the South Bay this August. The largest dog, a golden retriever, stands at the back in a yellow jacket. The middle retriever sits in blue, and the smallest dog up front wears red.
Photo by Jojet Ortega Photography.

Looking for more things to do in the area?

Visit our What to Do in Northern California page!

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