In the sunny South Bay, you’ll find many exciting events and celebrations happening this July including a Fourth of July symphony show, street festivals, endless art and food and world-class musicals.
We’ve done the deep research for you on the best things to do in the South Bay including museums, cultural events, food tours, athletic events, hikes 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.
Featured photo by Brandon Patoc.
July 29 - Aug 3
As one of the greatest entertainers of all time, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to San Jose in the form of MJ, the multiple Tony Award-winning musical centered around the making of his 1992 Dangerous World Tour.
Wednesday evenings through August
Picnic at this free concert series, featuring extraordinary vocalists, instrumentalists and big bands throughout summer. Jazz on the Plazz is Los Gatos’ Wednesday-night destination, and attendees can bring the whole family for these nights of music and culture. July’s performances (no show on July 2) include appearances by the Heidi Evelyn Dance Orchestra, the Monterey Jazz Festival’s Regional Band and more exciting groups.
July 4
The San Francisco Symphony and ukulele virtuoso Taimane light up the night at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View with a festive outdoor concert perfect for the Fourth of July. The evening concludes with a grand finale of spectacular fireworks.
July 12 & 13
Obon is a yearly Japanese Buddhist tradition of honoring one’s ancestors, and San Jose’s celebration of the occasion has been ongoing for an unknown number of years, with its current iteration being cemented post-1945. The festivities include Taiko drumming, Obon odori (dancing), crafts and activities, plus streams of delicious Japanese food.
July 19 & 20
Over 200 local artists, designers and makers descend on the Santa Clara Convention Center for this free-admission festival. Beyond the countless items for sale from talented makers, there’s also the “moveable feast” marketplace of food vendors. Need to take a rest from all the shopping? Take a seat in the lounge to play with cute, furry kittens courtesy of rescue group Mini Cat Town.
July 25
As if! Revisit the iconic 1995 film Clueless at this 30th anniversary screening at the San Jose Civic Center. Endlessly quotable and a touchstone to the fashion and lingo of the 90s, Clueless remains a longstanding fan favorite starring Alicia Silverstone as the spoiled but lovable Beverly Hills teen Cher Horowitz. Following the film, Silverstone will take the stage to share fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from the film and her life.
July 26 & 27
Meander through the scenic grounds of Filoli House and Garden while browsing the wares from over 40 artists and artisans from around the region. This event also includes demonstrations by artists making origami, mosaics and more. And while you are there, don’t miss TROLLS: Save the Humans featuring six enormous, wood-carved ‘activist Trolls’ who have come to teach humans how to rediscover nature and inspire humans to be good stewards of the earth.
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!
More Activities in Northern California
