As summer draws to a close in Northern California, locals are faced with the bittersweet “end-of-the-summer scaries,” a term that encapsulates the anxiety many feel about leaving behind the warmth and freedom of summer without maximizing the sunshine-filled days.
However, there is still time to soak up the beautiful California weather with a variety of outdoor events designed to entertain and delight.
One such event is the Fern Alley Music Series, which is set to take place on August 23 at noon in San Francisco. This vibrant gathering at 99 Fern St will feature live music from Brad Nofal and Friends, celebrating local talent and the spirit of community in the heart of the Lower Polk neighborhood.
For those who enjoy a bit of nostalgia, the Jerry Crawl invites participants to revel in the iconic atmosphere of Haight Street on the same day at 4 p.m. Attendees can find their way through the bustling street with drinks in hand, accompanied by DJs while celebrating the 60th anniversary of The Grateful Dead.
Music lovers won’t want to miss Island of Black & White Live at Las Positas Vineyards. Scheduled for 6 p.m. on August 23, this outdoor concert promises a delightful evening with live music from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Attendees can also indulge in wine and a full tapas menu at the tasting room.
Comedy enthusiasts can head to Fenestra Winery for Funestra’s Comedy Night, beginning at 7 p.m. on August 23. Guests will enjoy award-winning wine alongside food from onsite food trucks like Your Taco Guy, making it a fun-filled evening of laughter and good food under the stars.
For theater buffs, “The Taming of the Shrew” offers a chance to watch this classic Shakespeare play for free in John Hinkel Park on August 23 and 24 at 4 p.m. This humorous yet complex exploration of relationships encourages attendees to bring blankets or low lawn chairs to enjoy the performance from the stone terraces, with accommodations available for individuals with mobility or hearing limitations.
Meanwhile, single professionals looking to meet new friends can participate in a Pickleball Mixer on August 24 at 4 p.m. at the Pickleball Courts in Palo Alto. This event is aimed at individuals aged 40-59, providing a relaxed atmosphere to mingle while playing pickleball and enjoying a social hour.
As the summer season nears its end, the Summer Concert Series at Marin Art and Garden Center will feature Matt Jaffe on August 28 at 5 p.m. This concert will be hosted in the Redwood Amphitheater, surrounded by natural beauty. Jaffe, a San Francisco songwriter with a remarkable pedigree, will entertain guests with his engaging music. Attendees are encouraged to bring cushions for seating, as drinks and snacks will be sold, and picnicking is permitted.
Lastly, embracing Scottish heritage, the 159th Scottish Highland Gathering and Games will take place from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on August 30-31 at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. This longstanding Bay Area tradition, which dates back to 1866, will showcase thrilling competitions, vibrant entertainment, and rich cultural experiences, culminating in the Massed Pipe Bands finale.
Despite the impending autumn, there are still numerous opportunities to engage in outdoor activities, relish in the vibrant community, and enjoy the last days of summer.
Mark your calendars to make the most of these incredible events that promise to create lasting memories before the cool weather arrives.
image source from：patch
