Written by DistrictBites Admin
Summer festival season has arrived, and the Bay Area is buzzing with excitement. Whether you're a fan of jazz, wine, or simply enjoying good food and fun, there's a summer festival perfect for you. Mark your calendars and get ready for some of the city's best events!
Kick Off Your Summer with These Festivals
Here are some of the top festivals the Bay Area has to offer and everything you need to know to join in on the fun.
June Festivals
Juneteenth Freedom Celebration & Block Party
Though the Emancipation Proclamation was signed in 1863, it wasn't until June 19, 1865, that enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned they were free. This historic moment is celebrated as Juneteenth, a holiday that African Americans have honored for over a century.
This year, the Juneteenth Freedom Celebration & Block Party in the Fillmore District is eight city blocks packed with carnival rides, games, and live music. There will also be over 50 vendors, a classic car show, and a fashion show. The event will take place on June 15 from 11 AM to 6 PM. Admission is free.
The Annual San Francisco Jazz Festival
The 39th Annual San Francisco Jazz Festival runs from June 5th to 16th. This year’s extensive artist lineup includes La Doña, Co-llab Choir, John Santos Sextet, and Jane Monheit.
To keep everyone safe while having fun, The SFJazz Center is implementing policies to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The Artichoke Festival
The Artichoke Festival has taken place for 62 years in Monterey County. During the event, you’ll get to try fan-favorite fried artichokes and even artichoke cupcakes and ice cream (don’t knock it until you try it).
There’s more to this festival than eating artichoke cupcakes. The events include chef demos, wine tastings, and even a quilt challenge.
This year’s festival runs June 8th to 9th. Featured chefs include Pamela Burns of Wild Plum Bakery and Café and Hondo Hernandez, the Pit Boss at Showoff BBQ.
Festival organizers are deeply committed to keeping everyone safe and healthy while having fun. All bags at the event are subject to search, and guests are required to follow all CDC and local county COVID-19 guidelines.
The Soy and Tofu Festival
The 12th annual Northern California Soy and Tofu Festival takes place at St. Mary’s Cathedral, near SF’s Japantown, on June 22 from 11 AM to 5 PM. The festival seeks to educate attendees about soy and tofu through contests, cooking demonstrations, samples, and live performances.
August Festivals
Summer’s ending, but it isn’t over yet. We couldn’t talk about summer festivals without mentioning Outside Lands!
Outside Lands
This three-day music, cannabis, food, and wine event features hometown music heroes (such as Illenium) and international stars. This year’s performers include The Killers, Tyler, The Creator, Sturgill Simpson, and Victoria Monét (among many others).
The festival also features some of the best food vendors in the Bay Area. This year’s lineup includes El Garage, Copas, Fowl + Fare, Marley’s Treats, Wah Jee Wah, and several others, providing attendees with plenty of wine and beer options.
Recurring Events
If you have a busy schedule, don’t fret. These events are occurring all summer long.
Off the Grid Fort Mason
After two long years, Off the Grid Fort Mason Center is back for its 12th season! We’re bringing back monthly theme nights and events that feature the best vendors and entertainers in the Bay Area.
Every 3rd Friday, bring your pup for Fido Friday. You’ll get 10% off for Yappy Hour and a treat for your best friend (because our events aren’t just for people to enjoy). Be sure to join us on June 24th for the Off the Grid Pride Block Party.
Friday Nights at OMCA
Join us for a free, family-friendly event at the Oakland Museum of California. Every Friday at 5 PM, Off the Grid’s local creators will provide delicious eats and an opportunity to deepen community connections.
After grabbing some local grub, head to the Museum’s garden to enjoy a relaxing family dinner together (and skip doing the dishes). Enjoy a glass of wine while trying your hand at some Giant Jenga!
Some of the vendors featured this season include Curry Up Now, Kabob Trolley, Southern Comfort Kitchen, and Yo Soy Ceviche. Make sure to grab your tickets today!
Gordon Biersch Night Market
Join us at the Gordon Biersch Night Market in San Jose for an evening of music, food, and drinks. The live music is curated by San Jose Jazz, and Gordon Biersch brews special release beers for the occasion. Each week has an exciting food truck theme like BBQ, hula night, spicy foods from around the world, or throwback Thursday; so, every visit provides a unique experience.
China Basin Park
China Basin Park is one of San Francisco’s newest parks, and we’re thrilled to have Off the Grid creators on-site to provide food for your picnic. With views of the waterfront and Oracle Park, it’s the perfect spot to snack on your comfort food or try something new. Check out the Off the Grid schedule and creator lineup.
Don’t Miss The Bay Area’s Biggest Festivals
After two long years, all of us are ready to gather together with our neighbors and have some fun. Luckily for us, the Bay Area has no shortage of festivals and events. Whether you’re trying artichoke ice cream for the first time or dancing to Victoria Monét like no one is watching, there’s something in our great city for everyone.