Looking for the coolest things to do in the South Bay as spring rolls in? From the best hiking trails to antiques shows and events celebrating this blooming time of year, we’ve got you covered. We’ve done the deep research for you on the best things to do in the South Bay this April including museums, cultural events and food tours and more. Speaking of food, we also have an extensive list of our best restaurants in the South Bay, and if you’re planning a weekend, the best places to stay.
Spring weather is lovely in the South Bay, with averages in the 60s and a few sunny 70s days sprinkled throughout.
Feature photo: Culture Night Market, courtesy of Plus Light Media.
Culture Night Market
Dates TBD
For a community gathering that celebrates the culture and diversity of San Jose, show up to the Arena Green East during the Culture Night Market. Local vendors and artists will set up booths alongside plenty of food stalls, and the night finishes with a free screening of Encanto.
More info: culturenightmarket.com
Cupertino Earth & Arbor Day Festival
Date TBD
Earth Day is the world’s most widely celebrated secular holiday, and Cupertino won’t miss out on the big day. Visit Library Field Park to learn about sustainability and how to defend our environment against climate change. Not just educational and filled with interactive activities (which it is), this event will also host live music and food trucks, so you can turn up while protecting the Earth.
More info: cupertino.org
Los Gatos Spring Wine Walk
Date TBD
Though the North Bay and Napa get lots of attention for wine, the South Bay also boasts a healthy wine scene. You can participate in this seasonal stroll through Downtown Los Gatos, wine glass in hand. For three hours, local shops, restaurants and wineries will offer food samples and wine tastings for rambling participants.
More info: losgatoschamber.com
Opera San José Presents Florencia en el Amazonas
April 20–May 5
Join the San José Opera in the Bay Area’s first performance of Florencia en el Amazonas, a Spanish-language opera by Mexican composer Daniel Catán. Fused with elements of magical realism, the show centers around the diva Florencia Grimaldi and her journey on a boat down the Amazon River. Tickets are on sale now.
More info: operasj.org
Nikkei Matsuri
Date TBD
Lovingly put together by community members tied to San Jose’s Japantown, the Nikkei Matsuri festival celebrates and perpetuates Japanese American culture. In Japanese, matsuri means “festival,” and Nikkei refers to the Japanese diaspora and their unique identity. Accordingly, this festival has celebrated San Jose’s Nikkei community for decades, leading to this year’s 46th annual festival. Take part to enjoy the day’s artisan shops, cultural exhibits and delicious food.
More info: nikkeimatsuri.org
Cupertino Cherry Blossom Fest
Dates TBD
A weekend full of performances, exhibitions and Japanese-style vendors distinguishes this festival, named the “Best of the Best Family Event in Silicon Valley” by Bay Area Parent Magazine. With martial arts, bonsai and ikebana demonstrations, tea ceremonies and more, this festival celebrates the continued cultural exchange and friendship between Cupertino and its sister city, Toyokawa, Japan. Guests are invited to participate in crafts and activities, like making your own Hachimaki headband or taking a selfie in a kimono.
More info: cupertinocherryblossomfestival.org
Event Venues
Looking to see what’s happening right now in the South Bay? Our comprehensive list of venues below will help you find what you need to know what’s going on.
Looking for more things to do in the area?
Visit our What to Do in Northern California page!