San Francisco

Top Bay Area Festivals and Fairs to Attend Over the Summer

Summer in the Bay Area offers an endless list of events to attend

The Bay Area is always buzzing. Every month is packed with celebrations, events, and concerts for locals to flock to. These happenings seem to be in greater abundance during the summer, offering endless choices on how to spend a day in the sun. If looking to explore some of the different events, here are the top festivals and fairs to check out this summer across the Bay.

San Francisco International LGBTQ Film Festival

Taking place in theatres across the Bay Area, this festival is the largest of its kind. The San Francisco International LGBTQ Film Festival has been running since 1977 and draws crowds upwards of 60,000 people. The annual event screens films from every genre, allowing viewers to expand their movie wheelhouse. Tickets are on sale now and showings will run from June 15 to 25.

Alameda County Fair

If you're craving kettle corn and family fun, head to the Alameda County Fair. Beginning June 16, this summer staple will provide carnival rides, concerts, and fried confections. Some guests who will be performing as well will include the Plain White T’s and Sugar Ray. Tickets can be purchased now on their website. Deals are also available until the fair's closing day, July 9.

63rd Annual North Beach Festival

On June 17, North Beach will begin to host the 63rd annual festival. Attendees will be able to roam through a maze of art booths, all while getting a tan. This is a free event that will take place both Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Phono Del Sol Music and Food Festival

Many festival goers are accustom to spending hundreds of dollar for a ticket, but admission to Phono Del Sol starts at only $29. This single-day event in Potrero Del Sol Park makes for a great summer day. Taking place on June 17, headliners include the alternative bands Thee Oh Sees and The Coathangers. Along with other local artists, attendees will also be able to hit up food trucks between sets. Make sure to pack your sunscreen and tie up your man bun for this one.

ID10T Music Festival + Comica Conival

Suitably situated in Silicon Valley, this two day affair has a lot going on. Bands like Weezer and Crystal Castles will take the stage, alongside DJs Zeds Dead and Madeon. If the musical line up wasn’t enough, the weekend will also be packed with comedians and panels. Created and hosted by Nerdist inventor, Chris Hardwick, this festival is a must. ID10T Fest will be held June 24-25. Tickets are still available.

Fillmore Jazz Festival

The 33rd Fillmore Jazz Festival will be held on July 1-2. Located in San Francisco, this free event is an all-day affair. Packed with over 100,000 visitors, guests will have to opportunity to enjoy a spread of art, food, crafts, and booze. Of course, this will all be accompanied by Jazz music. This festival is a great way to spend your Fourth of July weekend.

Outside Lands

Outside Lands, one of the most anticipated music festivals in the Bay Area, will take place August 11-13. Known in the past to host big name bands like Radiohead, this year will not be different. Attendees will witness performances by the Gorillaz, Metallica, and The Who during the three day affair. Single-day and weekend passes are available for purchase.

Oakland Art + Soul Festival

Sneaking in at the end of the summer is the Oakland Art + Soul Festival. On August 19th and 20th, the streets of Oakland will be taken over by dancers and musicians that the whole family will enjoy. Many of the performers last year were Bay Area natives, giving locals a true sense of pride for their community. Tickets can be bought at the gate during the event.

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