Foggy fireworks are a hallmark of the Fourth of July in the City by the Bay. Never mind, one can always find sunshine somewhere in the Bay Area — and plenty of wonderful events to enjoy. From Mendocino to Monterey, we’ve got a taste of what’s happening in San Francisco and the Bay Area this July.
Featured Photo: Courtesy of Alameda County Fair
San Francisco
San Francisco Marathon
July 22-23
The San Francisco Marathon The San Francisco Marathon is an annual USATF-certified road running event held in San Francisco, California that includes a full marathon, two half marathons, an ultramarathon, a 10k, and a 5K. The marathon starts and finishes on the Embarcadero near the Ferry Building and crosses the Golden Gate Bridge.
Fillmore Jazz Festival
July 1
Blending art and soul in one of the country’s most unique neighborhoods, the San Francisco Fillmore Jazz Festival is the largest free Jazz festival on the West Coast, drawing over 100,000 visitors over the Independence Day weekend.
From sunup to sundown, visitors can groove to the sounds of live music from multiple stages, browse the offerings of over 12 blocks of fine art and crafts and enjoy gourmet food and beverages.
Fireworks
July 4
What would Independence Day be without the famous foggy Fourth of July fireworks display over the bay? Thousands flock to the waterfront in hopes of clear skies after spending the day at Pier 39 and surrounding neighborhoods. The first boom begins at about 9pm. Pro tip: Don’t drive.
San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus
July 13
The legendary singing group joins forces with the San Francisco Symphony to mark the season’s last performance at Davis Symphony Hall and Dr. Timothy Seelig’s final season as Artistic Director. A one-night-only concert of inspiring choral favorites.
More info: sfsymphony.org
Paula West | Feinstein’s at the Nikko
July 14, 15, 16
Jazz nights in the city in an intimate setting are back. Paula West, San Francisco’s own legendary jazz artist, returns to Feinstein’s with her stellar band: Adam Shulman on piano, Aaron Germain on on bass and Leon Joyce on drums.
More info: feinsteinssf.com
East Bay
Oakland Museum of California
July 3
Free first Sundays at OMCA, bringing together collections of art, history and natural science under one roof to tell the extraordinary stories of California and its people. Hours: 11am to 5pm.
More info: museumca.org
Alameda County Fair
Through July 10
This year, there are new events, new rides and new food experiences. A full line-up of concerts, carnival, movies on the lawn, and live horse racing along with fair favorites, plus drone shows and fireworks.
More info: annual.alamedacountyfair.com
Chris Rock Ego Death World Tour 2022
July 7 - 9
Performing at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland, Chris Rock’s comedy act is in the spotlight following that infamous slap in the face from Will Smith during this year’s Oscar ceremony.
More info: chrisrock.com
Oakland Athletics
July 4
The Oakland A’s have a busy at-home schedule this month with 13 home games, taking on the Blue Jays, Astros, Tigers, and Rangers. Be there for the post-game Fireworks Show at Oakland Arena when the A’s are looking for a win over the Blue Jays.
More info: mlb.com
North Bay
Jazz and Blues by the Bay
July 1, 8, 15, 21, and 29
The City of Sausalito Park and Recreation Department presents a Friday evening outdoor concert series on the lawn in Gabrielson Park. Bring a low chair and enjoy the music. 6:30pm.
More info: sausalito.gov
Parade and Festival | Corte Madera and Larkspur
July 4
“We’re Back” parade starts at 10:30am at Redwood High School in Larkspur and ends at Corte Madera Town Center. Famous Corte Madera Town Band, McIntosh Pipe Band, and the Freedom Band. Entertainment, marketplace, food booths, children’s activities.
More info: visitmarin.org
Destination Sausalito Festivities
July 4
Parade starts at 10am down Bridgeway and Caledonia before an afternoon picnic at Dunphy Park where Marin locals, The Humdinger Band performs from the gazebo. In the evening at Gabrielson Park, dance to Neon Velvet from 6:30pm before fireworks begin. Free.
More info: destinationsausalito.com
Mendocino Music Festival
July 9 - 23
The renowned festival is back this month. Venues include Preston Hall in Mendocino and Cotton Auditorium in nearby Fort Bragg. Go to VisitMendocino.com for more details on performers.
More info: visitmendocino.com
Petaluma Art & Garden Festival
July 10
One of Petaluma’s favorite events with 145 booths by local crafters, artisans, gardeners. Live music. Kids Zone with hands-on arts and crafts, face painting, and a bouncy house. Bring your own washable chalk for the Chalk Art Competition. 11am to 5pm, free admission.
More info: petalumadowntown.com
South Bay
Stanford Jazz
Through July 30
For its 50th anniversary, the lineup features a tribute to Bobby Hutcherson and Eddie Marshall, a tribute to Nancy Wilson and Cannonball Adderley, saxophonist Charles McPherson, Patrice Rushen, Dianne Reeves (closing act on July 30) and many other talented acts.
More info: stanfordjazz.org
Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular
July 4
San Francisco Symphony’s annual outdoor event is led by conductor Edwin Outwater ending with fireworks at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View. 8pm start.
More info: sfsymphony.org
Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts
July 14 - 17
Peninsula Youth Theatre presents Frozen JR., a story of sibling love and acceptance. “Frozen JR.” explores the emotional journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. Faced with danger, they discover the powerful bond of sisterhood.
More info: tickets.mvcpa.com
Red Hot Chili Peppers | Levi’s Stadium
July 29
Hear songs like “Give It Away,” “Californication,” and “Under the Bridge” performed by the four men who made them classics. Red Chili Peppers With Beck and Thundercat at 7:30pm in Santa Clara.
More info: redhotchilipepperssanfrancisco.com
Art Walk at Filoli Historic House & Garden
July 30 - 31
Showcasing hand-picked local artists selling their work throughout Filoli’s lovely landscaped 16 acres in Woodside. Stroll the beautiful garden while browsing original paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and more.
More info: filoli.org
Looking for more things to do in the area?
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