.Calendar

An Event for Every Season

If you find yourself bored in the Bay Area, you clearly aren’t looking hard enough. Whether your tastes lean toward old-fashioned, foodie, fetishist, or family, there’s likely an event right up your alley. With these kinds of options, you might even discover an interest you never knew you had.

Ongoing

Oakland Art Murmur Monthly art walk in Oakland. First Fridays of every month. 6-10 p.m., free. Various locations in Oakland. OaklandArtMurmur.com.

1st Wednesday Street Parties With live bands, vendors from local businesses, and samplings from local restaurants. First Wednesday of every month, 6-9 p.m. June through September. 2, free. Downtown Pleasanton, Main St., Pleasanton, 925-484-2199, PleasantonDowntown.net.

Estuary Art Attack Monthly art walk in Oakland’s Jingletown and in Alameda. Second Fridays of every month, 6-9 p.m. Various locations. EstuaryArtAttack.com.

Wednesdays at the K Join hosts d’Arci Bruno and Pons Maar for beverages, snacks, and chats. There will be structured conversations, interviews, and presentations by some the Bay Area’s most interesting makers, thinkers, and tinkerers. Every Wednesday, 6-9 p.m., free. K Gallery, 2513 Blanding Ave., Alameda, Rhythmix.org.

Walking Tours of the “Gourmet Ghetto” Go behind-the-scenes with “Epicurean Concierge” Lisa Rogivin at various restaurants and food shops in North Berkeley. Tour includes conversations with chefs and food purveyors, and tastings and samples. Every Thursday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., $60. IntheKitchenwithLisa.com.

February

Fuck Valentine’s Day Erotic Psychotic Extravaganza With comedians, films, sex-toy giveaways, stories, contests, and more. Hosted by Jamie DeWolf. Typically held in February. Merchants Saloon, 401 Second St., Oakland.

Lunar New Year Bazaar Typically held in February. Oakland Chinatown, 9th and Franklin sts., Oakland.

Noise Pop Large independent music festival brings together veteran and up-and-coming noisemakers for anticipated reunions and rarely seen bills in intimate environments. The festival also includes a film festival, comedy, art, and a crafts fair. Feb. 24-Mar. 1. Various locations. NoisePop.com.

SF Bluegrass & Old Time Festival Music festival held in various locations throughout the Bay Area. Typically held in February. SFBluegrass.org.

March

History Mystery “After-Hours” Tour Three-hour tour of the USS Hornet after hours to learn the history of the ship. Thurs., Mar. 4, 7 p.m., $35. Reservations: 510-521-8448 ext. 282. USS Hornet, Alameda. USS-Hornet.org.

The Illuminated Corridor Public art, live music, and film featuring work by more than 30 local artists. March 5, free. For more info: IlluminatedCorridor.com.

Martinez Youth Baseball & Softball League Parade Sat., Mar. 13, 10 a.m. Historic Downtown Martinez, MainStreetMartinez.org.

Oakland Marathon Marathon, half-marathon, 5K, and relay through the streets of Oakland. Sat., Mar. 27 & Sun., Mar. 28. Starts at Broadways and ends at Frank Ogawa Plaza, 14th St. and Broadway, Oakland. OaklandMarathon.com/site10.aspx.

RPM Challenge Listening Party During the month of February, the Express challenges Bay Area musicians to create a new album of work. During the listening party, we play one track from every album completed. The event is broadcasted live. Attendees include the musicians, music industry professionals, and the general public. Sat., Mar. 27, free. Location TBA. RPMChallenge.com.

San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival The annual late-winter/early-spring event has grown into a ten-day feast with two important main courses: films from the old country and films by Asian Americans. Because it comes early in the calendar year, the often steals thunder from other fests with its adventurous selections. Mar. 11-21. Various venues. AsianAmericanMedia.org.

White Elephant Sale Biggest rummage sale in Northern California, with proceeds benefitting the Oakland Museum of California. Sat., Mar. 6, & Sun., Mar. 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., free. 333 Lancaster St., Oakland, WhiteElephantSale.org.

April

Club X Grand Opening Celebrating the opening of Club X, the Express’ new music venue. Bands TBA. 630 3rd St., Oakland. Apr. 16 & 17.

Downtown Clean Up Day Apr. 25. Details TBA. Historic Downtown Martinez, MainStreetMartinez.org.

Earth Expo Wed., Apr. 14, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Frank Ogawa Plaza, 14th Street and Broadway, Oakland.

East Bay Artisan Exhibit Inspired by Amish craftsmanship, the Express brings “Handmade Workshop” to the de Young museum’s Mural Room. Visitors can learn how East Bay artisans hand-make everyday items from garden tools to furniture and jewelry to clothes. Fri., Apr. 30. De Young, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr., San Francisco, 415-750-3600, FAMSF.org.

Green Film Festival Screening of films by East Bay filmmakers, who are challenged by the Express to shoot and edit a short film in 24 hours. Apr. 22. Location TBA.

Lions Club Easter Egg Hunt Plastic eggs are scattered throughout the park and gatherers are divided into age groups, with prizes to those who gather the most eggs. Sun., Apr. 4, 9-10 a.m., free. Mountain Village Park, Oakland. MontclairVillage.com.

Record Store Day International day to celebrate independent music retailers. Performances, special events, and more. Apr. 17. Various venues. RecordStoreDay.com.

The San Francisco International Film Festival The oldest film fest in the Western Hemisphere is also one of the world’s most interesting, because it plays to the Bay Area’s film-loving audiences instead of to industry types. Everything under the sun. Filmmakers on parade. Two weeks of movies you’ll probably never see anywhere else. Apr. 22-May 6. Various venues. SFFS.org

Strictly Sail Pacific April 15-18. Jack London Square, Oakland.

Taste for Artisans Party Modern hoe-down fund-raising event, benefiting DrawBridge, an organization that creates arts programs for homeless kids. Featuring local artisans selling or displaying their wares, local farmers, beer and wine, and local bands. Square dancing, fiddles, hay bales, mechanical bulls, and cream corn wrestling. Apr. 3. The Party Building, Jack London Square.

May

1st Wednesday Street Party “Cinco de Mayo” May 1, 6-9 p.m., free. Main St., Pleasanton. PleasantonDowntown.net/events.php.

91.8 KISS FM Old School Fiesta With live performances. Typically held in May. Shoreline Amphitheatre, One Amphitheatre Pkwy., Mountain View, 650-967-3000, ShorelineAmp.com.

Alcatraz Challenge Swim 1.5-mile swim begins at Alcatraz and ends at the East Beach of Crissy Field located in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area’s Presidio Park. May 30. For more information visit AlcatrazChallenge.us.

Art & Wine Stroll Wine tasting and art. May 8, $15-$20. Historic Downtown Martinez, MainStreetMartinez.org.

Bike to Work Day Thurs., May 13, 9 a.m., Frank Ogawa Plaza, 14th Street at Broadway, Oakland.

Carnaval San Francisco Celebrating Latin American and Caribbean cultures with a parade and street fair. Plus a mobile basketball playground, Niñolandia for kids, food, non-stop music, drumming, dancing, a crowning of the King and Queen, and work by local artists. For info, call 415-651-1811, or visit CarnavalSF.com. Typically held in May. Harrison St., between 16th and 24th sts., San Francisco.

CultureFest Details TBA. Sun., May 16, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Telegraph Avenue between 30th and 34th sts., Oakland.

Friday’s on the Main Weekly car and bike show. May 7-Sept. 24, free. Historic Downtown Martinez, MainStreetMartinez.org.

Grand Re-Opening of the Oakland Museum of California Starting Sat., May 1, at 11 a.m. and running through Sun., May 2, till 6 p.m. Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak St., Oakland. MuseumCA.org.

Himalayan Fair Berkeley’s “Little Lhasa” comes alive at the popular annual event, but the “great mountain cultures” of Nepal, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bhutan also are represented, with a full day’s worth of elaborately costumed traditional dance and music performers. And don’t forget the spicy, charcoal-grilled food. May 29, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., May 30, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Live Oak Park, 1301 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. HimalayanFair.net.

ING Bay to Breakers Annual 12K race with floats, a costume contest, and the ING Greater Body Expo. For info, visit INGBaytoBreakers.com. May 16. Howard St., at Beale St., San Francisco, BaytoBreakers.com.

JAMfest Youth Concert Local youths show off their musical talent. May 28, 7-8:30 p.m. Lions Wayside Park (First and Neal sts.), Pleasanton. PleasantonDowntown.net/events.php.

Jazz on Fourth One block of Berkeley’s Fourth Street is closed off where food, drink, and other merchants line the way, and two stages are filled with homegrown talent, culminating in the finale’s big-band pyrotechnics of award-winning, globetrotting Berkeley High School Jazz Ensemble. Typically held in May, free. FourthStreet.com.

KBLX Stone Soul Concert With live performances. Typically held in May. Sleep Train Pavilion at Concord, 2000 Kirker Pass Rd., Concord, 925-685-8497.

Malcolm X Jazz Festival With live performances; a children’s court with arts, crafts, and games; a food court with crafts, community information booths, and vendors; dance performances; poets; DJs; MCs; speakers; and open ciphers. Sat., May 16, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., free. San Antonio Park, 18th Ave. (at Foothill Blvd.), Oakland.

Oakland Greek Festival With Greek food, drink, music, and dance. For info, visit OaklandGreekFestival.com. May 14-16. Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Ascension, 4700 Lincoln Ave., Oakland, 510-531-3400, AscensionCathedral.org.

Oakland Indie Awards With food and drink samplings from local restaurants; plus expos by local media, small businesses, and organizations. May 14. Location TBD. For more info: OaklandIndieAwards.com.

Park Street’s 10th Annual Spring Festival Featuring arts, crafts, food, beer, wine, and kids’ area with pony rides and petting zoo. May 8 & 9, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Park Street, Alameda. ShopParkStreet.com.

Peddlers’ Faire Arts and collectibles fair sponsored by the Main Street Martinez Association. For info, visit MainStreetMartinez.org. Sat., May 15 & Aug. 7. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Main St., Martinez.

Spring Antiques & Collectibles Street Faire With vintage, retro and antique home decorations, clothing, furniture, jewelry, art, pottery, books and collectibles from more than 400 dealers. For info, call 510-522-7500, or visit PleasantonAntiqueFaire.com. May 30, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., free. Downtown Pleasanton, Main St., Pleasanton, 925-484-2199.

June

1st Wednesday Street Party “Jump Into Summer” Street party featuring a performance by the Cocktail Monkeys. June 2, 6-9 p.m., free. Downtown Pleasanton, Main St., Pleasanton. PleasantonDowntown.net/events.php.

23rd Annual Tri for Fun With a 400-yard swim, 11-mile bike ride, and 3.1-mile run, this triathlon is designed for the novice, but is great training for the experienced athlete, too. Advance registration is encouraged and includes a T-shirt, refreshments, and raffle. Don’t forget your bike helmet and swim cap. June 19. Shadow Cliffs Regional Park, Pleasanton. For more information visit OnYourMarkEvents.com.

Alameda County Fair Features horseracing, contests, concerts, livestock, agriculture education, and carnival rides for the kiddies, plus plenty of barbecued ribs, turkey legs, and corn on the cob. Typically held in June till early July. Alameda County Fairgrounds, 4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton, 925-426-7600, AlamedaCountyFair.com.

American Crown Circus Details TBA. Martinez Marina, Martinez. MainStreetMartinez.org.

Bay Area Artisan Expo Sponsored by the Express, the expo will feature hundreds of Bay Area artisans exhibiting their products to area retailers, galleries, and others. Date & location TBA.

Annual Statuto Race This internationally famous 8K run or 1-mile walk commemorates the Statuto Albertino of 1848 — Italy’s first constitution as a cohesive nation — and is the fourth-oldest footrace in the United States. The race begins 9 a.m. at 1630 Stockton Street in SF, goes through North Beach, and ends at Washington Square Park. Typically held in June. For more information, visit SFIAC.org/statuto.html.

Berkeley World Music Festival Featuring live performances. June 5, free. Telegraph Ave., (between Bancroft Ave. and Parker St.), Berkeley.

The Best of the Bay Century Enjoy panoramic bay views, miles of pastoral and forested hills, and deep, cool redwood forests while on this ninety-mile trek through the Bay Area. Starting at the Orinda BART station, the ride goes through the East Bay hills and ends in Fremont, with plenty of rest stops and food along the way. June 19. Preregistration only; limited to 150 riders. For more information visit CherryCityCyclists.org or call 510-357-3045.

Chocolate & Chalk Art Festival With a sidewalk chalk art contest. June 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., free. Gourmet Ghetto, Shattuck Ave. (between Rose and Delaware sts.), Berkeley, NorthShattuck.org.

Double Dipsea Handicap Race This 13.7-mile handicap race starts at Stinson Beach then goes on through Muir Woods and Mount Tamalpais State Park before ending up back at the beach. This race is extra fun for slow runners because they get a head start, and the fast runners have to work harder to catch up. June 26. Register at DoubleDipsea.com.

East Bay Open Studios East Bay Open Studios connects the public with more than 400 artists in 14 cities in the East Bay. The Express hosts happy hours at multiple venues. June 5-6 & 12-13, free. Various East Bay locations. ProArtsGallery.org/ebos/index.php.

Frameline Aka the Lesbian-Gay-Bisexual-Transgender Film Festival, a 31-year-old summer happening that has branched out over the years and now cruises the world for its innovative, exciting programs. Risky and proud of it. Typically held in June. Various venues. Frameline.org.

Giro di Peninsula All proceeds from this “Italian experience” bicycle ride go to helping the Festa Foundation, which provides assistance to Bay Area people with developmental disabilities. The ride features five different courses (100K, 70K, 30K, and 30KEZ) as well as food and free T-shirts. Typically held in June. Registration and information at FestaFoundation.org/giro.html.

King of the County BBQ Challenge & Music Festival With live music, arts and crafts vendors, barbecue, kids’ activities, Smokey the Bear and his fire engine, carnival rides, face painting, games, and a car show. For info, visit MartinezChamber.com. June 19 & 20, free. Martinez Regional Shoreline, Ferry St., Martinez.

Laurel Summer Solstice Music Festival Featuring live performances. Sat., June 19, 1-7 p.m., free. Laurel Village, 38th Ave. and MacArthur Blvd., Oakland, Oakland, LaurelVillage.org.

Live 105’s BFD San Francisco’s leading modern rock outpost Live 105 reliably convenes less edgy chart-toppers like Good Charlotte and Linkin Park, classic rebels like Social Distortion and the Cure, and an array of up-and-coming and local acts. Typically held in June. Shoreline Amphitheatre, One Amphitheatre Pkwy., Mountain View, 650-967-3000, ShorelineAmp.com.

Live Oak Park Fair With a bazaar featuring crafts, contemporary art, handcrafted jewelry, clothing, quilts, baskets, sculptures, clay, fiber, glass, metal, hand-cut block prints, paintings, and woodwork. Plus food and music. June 12 & 13, free. Live Oak Park, 1301 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, LiveOakParkFair.com.

Mount Diablo Hill Climb Contra Costa Cycling Club holds its annual race up Mount Diablo. June 12. For more details, visit C4Racing.org.

Northern California Pirate Festival Four acres of live music, pirate and military encampments, roving entertainers, treasure hunts, sword fighting, black powder drills a children’s stage, a costume contest, micro brewed beers, shopping for pirate wares, and a cannon battle each day at 2 p.m. For info, visit NorCalPirateFestival.com. June 19 & 20, free. Vallejo Waterfront Park, 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo.

Oaklavia: Come Play in the Street Details TBA. Sun., June 27, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., free. Broadway and parts of Telegraph Avenue from Grand Ave. to Jack London Square, Oakland.

Pacific Fine Arts Festival More than ninety professional artists from across the western US will showcase their works. Fri., June 25, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat., June 26, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun., June 27, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., free. Mountain Blvd. at La Salle Ave. and Antioch Ct., Oakland. MontclairVillage.com.

SalmonAid Festival Wild salmon benefit featuring live music performances. Typically held in June, free. Jack London Square, 70 Washington St. (foot of Broadway), Oakland, 510-627-1670, JackLondonSquare.com.

San Francisco Free Folk Festival A two-day celebration of live music and community interaction. Workshops will address a huge spectrum of music and dance, while ongoing jams and song swaps run both days. June 12-13, noon-10 p.m. Presidio Middle School, 450 30th Ave., San Francisco, SFFolkFest.org.

San Francisco Gay Pride Parade One of San Francisco’s biggest, most colorful parties. Aside from the usual two-day procession of cowboys in leather chaps and sexy transgendered go-go dancers, the parade also features special music guests and sundry forms of entertainment. Sat., June 26, noon-6 p.m., & Sun., June 27, noon-7 p.m., free. Civic Center Lawn, 1292 Market St., San Francisco, 415-677-7961, SFPride.org.

Strawberry Hill 5K This conveniently located race starts and finishes at Kennedy Drive and Transverse in Golden Gate Park. Typically held in June. Visit DSERunners.com/schedule.html for more info.

Summer Sailstice Boathouse open late with free boat rentals, plus a chance to meet Coastie the USCG auxiliary talking safety boat. June 19, free. Lake Merritt Boating Center, 568 Bellevue Ave. (the blue boathouse in Lakeside Park), Oakland, 510-238-2196, OaklandNet.com/parks/programs/boating.asp.

Temescal Street Fair Features food and drink from local restaurants, a fashion show, fine artists, craft and community booths, live music, a kids’ stage, and more. Sun., June 6, noon-6 p.m., free. Telegraph Ave., between 48th and 51st streets, Oakland, TemescalDistrict.org.

Woodminster Cross Country Trail Race Nine-mile hilly loop trail that runs through the Oakland hills. Medals for 1st-15th place. For info, call 510-655-8228. Typically held in June. Redwood Park, 7867 Redwood Rd., Oakland, 510-636-1684, EBParks.org.

Vans Warped Tour With Andrew W.K., Attack Attack, Every Time I Die, Reel Big Fish, Sum 41, the Dillinger Escape Plan, and more. June 26, 11 a.m., $33.50. Shoreline Amphitheatre, One Amphitheatre Pkwy., Mountain View, 650-967-3000, ShorelineAmp.com.

July

1st Wednesday Street Party: “Red, White & Blues” Performance by Night Fever. July 7, 6-9 p.m., free. Downtown Pleasanton, Main St., Pleasanton. PleasantonDowntown.net/events.php.

Alcatraz Challenge Aquathlon & Swim Options in this event include a 1.5-mile swim from Alcatraz to the Presidio, followed by a seven-mile out-and-back run across the Golden Gate Bridge, a relay team swim-run, or just the swim. July 18. For more information visit AlcatrazChallenge.us.

Berkeley Kite Festival and West Coast Kite Championships Kite teams from Berkeley and Japan show off their enormous kites (both traditional and non), visible as far as the eye can see. July 31 & Aug. 1, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., free. Cesar E. Chavez Park, 200 Marina Blvd., Berkeley, 510-235-KITE, HighlineKites.com/Berkeley_Kite_Festival.

Brainwash Movie Festival The Bay’s only “drive-in, bike-in, walk-in” film fest shows a bunch of ultra-indie films and vids on a wall in a West Oakland parking lot. Typically held in July. Brainwashm.com.

4th of July at the Berkeley Marina Live entertainment on the main stage, plus art & craft booths, massages, free sailboat rides, dragon boat rides, and the grand fireworks off the end of the Berkeley Pier at dusk. Alcohol-free event with complimentary valet bike parking. For info, call 510-548-5335. July 4, free. Berkeley Marina, 201 University Ave., Berkeley, 510-981-6740.

Fire Arts Festival With outdoor fire sculptures, open-air exhibitions, interactive installations, food, vendors, live music, and dance performances. For info, visit TheCrucible.org. Typically held in July.

Fourth of July Celebration in Jack London Square With music, food, arts and crafts, and carnival games. For info, visit JackLondonSquare.com, or call 510645-9292 ex. 225. Sun., July 4, 7-9:30 p.m., free. Jack London Square Pavilion Stage, Jack London Square, Oakland.

Fourth of July Celebration in Pleasant Hill Parade, booths, fireworks, and more. July 4. Downtown Pleasant Hill. PHJuly4.com.

Fourth of July Concert & Celebration Concert and old-fashioned family picnic. July 4, 12:30-2 p.m., free. Lions Wayside Park (First and Neal sts.), Pleasanton. PleasantonDowntown.net/events.php.

Martinez Hometown 4th of July Parade & Celebration With a pancake breakfast, parade, live music, arts & crafts vendors, kids’ activities, booths, and fireworks at dusk. For info, call 925-228-3577 or visit MainStreetMartinez.org. July 4, free. Main Street Plaza, Main St., Martinez.

Mayor’s Fourth of July Alameda’s annual Fourth of July extravaganza attracts some 20,000 spectators, or roughly one-third of the city’s population. Everyone and then some are there to wave flags and witness color guards, marching bands, baton twirlers, classic cars, horses, politicians, veterans, and floats. The best hometown parade going in the East Bay, no question. July 4, free. For more info visit MyAlamedaParade.com.

Mission Creek Music & Arts Festival Annual local independent music and arts festival, taking place at venues around the Bay Area. July 14-18. For more information visit MCMF.org.

Old Fashioned 4th of July With catered BBQ, games, music, tours, a teddy bear parade with prizes, and a reading of the Declaration of Independence. July 4, free. Dunsmuir Historic Estate, 2960 Peralta Oaks Ct., Oakland, 925-275-9490, Dunsmuir.org.

Jail Break Run Run as if you’re on the lam in this annual race coordinated by the Alameda County Sheriff’s Department and the Special Olympics of Northern California. Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the County Sheriff’s Office Regional Training Center in Dublin. The 5K/10K run begins with a lap around the Santa Rita County Jail, and the event raises funds and public awareness for the Special Olympics. July 18. For more info, call 209-795-7832 or OnYourMarkEvents.com.

Lake Del Valle Aqua Challenge Go for a dip at Livermore’s Lake Del Valle Regional Park Swim Beach with alternative half-mile, 1-mile, and 2-mile swims. July 24. For more information visit OnYourMarkEvents.com or call 209-795-7832.

Lakefest With wine samplings, gourmet food booths, non-stop live music, a kids’ zone, a green expo, and a farmers’ market. July 31 & Aug. 1, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., free. Lakeshore Ave., between Lake Park Ave. & Mandana Blvd., Oakland, OaklandLakefest.com.

Park Street’s 26th Annual Art & Wine Faire Arts, crafts, food, beer, wine, music stages, kids’ area, pony rides, petting zoo, and more. July 24 & 25, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., free. Park Street, Alameda. ShopParkStreet.com.

Pleasant Hill Firecracker 5K Run-Walk This flat three-lap route along downtown Pleasant Hill’s July 4 parade route starts at 7:30 a.m. The just-for-fun children’s dash is a 100-yard sprint for kids seven and under. Register in front of Fleet Feet Sports, 45 Crescent Dr. July 4. For more info, visit PHJuly4.com or call 925-827-4772.

Red and White Fleet Fireworks Cruise Celebrate Independence Day in style. Depart from Pier 43 at 7:45 p.m. and enjoy a brief sail along San Francisco’s stunning evening skyline, before viewing the fireworks show from the bay. July 4, $47. Call 415-673-2900 for more information.

Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival Featuring Korn, Rob Zombie, Lamb of God, Five Finger Death Punch, and more. July 11, 2:15 p.m. $TBA. Shoreline Amphitheatre, One Amphitheatre Pkwy., Mountain View, 650-967-3000, ShorelineAmp.com.

Run to the Lake A 5K run/walk, 10K run, and kids fun dash that benefits Eden Medical Center’s Trauma Center. Typically held in July. To volunteer or for more information visit EdenMedCenter.org/Events or call 510-727-2720.

San Francisco Jewish Film Festival The world’s oldest and largest Jewish film festival sees its mission as exploring the Jewish experience in all its complexity. And if that means giving equal voice to Palestinians and other minorities, so be it. Boundaries were created to be stretched. July 24-August 9. Various locations. SFJFF.org.

San Francisco Marathon Run across the Golden Gate Bridge and past many of the city’s most famous landmarks in this extremely popular race. Options include a full marathon, two half-marathons, 5K run, progressive marathon, and alternative routes. Participants receive T-shirts, coaster medals, and completion certificates. July 25. For more information or to register, visit RunSFM.com or call 415-814-2823.

San Francisco Silent Film Festival Dedicated to restoring and presenting original silent films with live musical accompaniment — which means no special effects (well, hardly any), no overbuilt soundtracks, and a complete absence of Shia LaBeouf. What a great idea. July 15-18. SilentFilm.org.

Scottish Highland Games Traditional Highland games plus craft booths, vendors, food, whisky tasting, mansion tours, a gathering of the clans, children’s activities, dancing demonstrations, pipe band competitions and musical performances. July 10 & 11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dunsmuir Historic Estate, 2960 Peralta Oaks Ct., Oakland, 925-275-9490, Dunsmuir.org.

Splash into Summer Open House Celebrating National Recreation & Parks Month with free boat rentals and a chance to meet Coastie, the US Coast Guard auxiliary talking safety boat. Plus opportunities to sign up for youth and adult summer boating classes. Typically held in July, free. Lake Merritt Sailboat House, 568 Bellevue Ave., Oakland, 510-238-2196, OaklandCVB.com.

Summer Wine Stroll Featuring a variety of Livermore wines. Typically held in July. Downtown Pleasanton, Main St., Pleasanton, 925-484-2199.

August

1st Wednesday Street Party: “Dog Days of Summer” Details TBA. Aug. 4, 6-9 p.m., free. Downtown Pleasanton, Main St., Pleasanton. PleasantonDowntown.net/events.php.

5K Run/Walk Across Home Plate A 5K timed race, fun run, and walk lets you skip, hop, or whatever you like across home plate at AT&T Park. The route winds along the Embarcadero, beginning and ending at the ballpark. Afterward, enjoy the pregame festival with live music, food, and giveaways. Typically held in August. All of the funds raised go to Project Open Hand. For more info, visit PlatetoPlate.org.

14th Annual Martinez Car, Truck & Bike Show More than 100 cars, trucks, and motorcycles will line the streets of downtown Martinez. Plus raffles, live music, DJ, trophys, plaques, and more. Date TBA. Free. Historic Downtown Martinez, MainStreetMartinez.org.

Angel Island 20th Annual 12K and 25K Fantastic views await once you ferry over to the island with fellow runners for these two 9 a.m. loop races. The 24K does the loop twice. Registration is $45 in advance or $50 on the day. Sat., Aug 28. For more information visit Envirosports.com.

Art and Soul Festival Set in downtown Oakland’s beautiful City Center, it’s a feast for the eyes, ears, mind, and mouth, with national music acts, dance and fashion shows, and an array of vendors serving ethnic eats and crafts as diverse as the city. Aug. 21 & 22, noon-6 p.m. Oakland City Center, 500 12th St., Oakland, ArtandSoulOakland.com.

Bone Bash X Typically in August. Sleep Train Pavilion at Concord, 2000 Kirker Pass Rd., Concord, 925-685-8497.

Chinatown Streetfest With more than 280 booths spanning nine blocks, selling food, crafts, unique Asian products, arts and crafts, and community resources. Plus entertainment on three stages, and a Cultural Village presented by the Oakland Museum of California. Typically held in August, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., free. Oakland Chinatown, 11th St. (at Webster St.), Oakland, OaklandChinatownStreetfest.com.

East Bay Express Best of the East Bay Party With live music; dance performances; kids’ entertainment; and a marketplace featuring food from local restaurants, beer and wine, and crafts by local artisans. Aug. 6, free. Jack London Square.

Eat Real Fest Food festival focusing on healthy, sustainable street food. Aug. 27-29, free. Jack London Square, Oakland, EatRealFest.com.

Golden Gate Park Cross-Country A 5K race that begins at the big tree in the Upper Speedway Meadows Grass area of Golden Gate Park and finishes on the park’s lower paved Polo Field track, after a run through Speedway Meadows and a loop around the Polo Field. Typically held in August. For more information, visit DSERunners.com.

Musical Mash-Up Details TBA. Aug. 27. Berkeley Art Museum, 2626 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, 510-642-0808, BAMPFA.berkeley.edu.

Laurel World Music & Food Festival Featuring live performances and food vendors. Sat., Aug. 7, free. Laurel Village, 35th Avenue and MacArthur Blvd., Oakland, Oakland, LaurelVillage.org.

Outside Lands Music & Arts Festival The extravagant three-day affair in Golden Gate Park features a lineup with mass appeal, likely to draw KFOG devotees, hip-hop heads, indie-rock fans, and the jam-band set. Acts TBA. Typically held in August. Golden Gate Park, 501 Stanyan St., San Francisco, 415-831-2700, SFOutsideLands.com.

Peddlers’ Faire Arts and collectibles fair sponsored by the Main Street Martinez Association. For info, visit MainStreetMartinez.org. Sat., May 15 & Aug. 7. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Main St., Martinez.

Round the Rock Alcatraz Challenge Canoe Race This Polynesian outrigger canoe race hosted by the Pacific Islanders Cultural Association and He’e Nalu of Marin Outrigger Canoe Club starts at the East Beach of Crissy Field National Park, and is followed by a raffle and prizes. Typically held in August. Registration is $12-$15. Visit AlcatrazChallenge.com for more information.

Sistahs Steppin’ in Pride March from Grand Ave. and MacArthur Blvd., Oakland. Ends at Snow Park (20th and Harrison sts.). Aug. 28.

Windmill 10K This vigorous 10K run starts and finishes in Golden Gate Park at Kennedy Drive and Great Highway (at the Dutch windmill) in San Francisco and goes past the Conservatory of Flowers. Typically held in Aug. For more info, visit DSERunners.com.

September

1st Wednesday Street Party: “Celebrate Pleasanton” Details TBA. Sept. 1, 6-9 p.m., free. Downtown Pleasanton, Main St., Pleasanton. PleasantonDowntown.net/events.php.

38th Annual Mountain View Art & Wine Festival With live jazz, rock, swing, blues, Motown, rumba, funk, hip-hop, flamenco, and Celtic music; food; wine; microbrews and margaritas, health and wellness displays; an organic and green products showcase, home and garden exhibits; a kids’ zone; magicians; and jugglers. For info, call 650-968-8378. Typically held in September. Castro St., bet. El Camino Real & Evelyn Ave., Mountain View.

Creek to Bay Day Watershed cleanup event. Details TBA. Sept. 25, 9 a.m.-noon. Various locations.

Fall Boat Show Details TBA. Sept.15-19, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Jack London Square, Oakland.

Folsom Street Fair Celebrate leather, rubber, and fetish styles at the annual event, which also features live rock performances, vendor booths, and exhibitions. Sun., Sept. 26, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., free. Folsom St., between 7th & 12th Streets, San Francisco, FolsomStreetFair.org.

Martinez Italian Street Painting Festival Chalk art and arts and crafts vendors, plus music, food, and a farmers’ market. Sat., Sept. 25, & Sun., Sept. 26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., free. Historic Downtown Martinez, MainStreetMartinez.org.

Millbrae Art & Wine Festival With a Mardi Gras-style feast; wine; microbrews & margaritas; live bands; a classic car show; taiko drums; a Chinese dragon dance; organic and green product expos; a kids’ zone; and an arts and crafts bazaar. Typically held in September. Broadway Ave., bet. Victoria and Meadow Glen, Millbrae.

Oakland Pride Festival Sun., Sept. 5, noon- 8 p.m., free. Frank Ogawa Plaza, 14th Street at Broadway, Oakland.

Out and About Rockridge Street festival featuring music, food, and vendors. Sun., Sept. 26, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., College Avenue, Claremont Avenue to Manila Avenue, Oakland, RockridgeOutandAbout.com.

Power to the Peaceful Festival An estimated 50,000 folks flock to Golden Gate Park’s Speedway Meadow, spreading the gospel of peace, love, granola, and environmental consciousness. With potent performers, the fest also features a food drive, yoga jam, and vendors. Music acts TBA. For more info, visit PowertothePeaceful.org. Typically held in September. Ticket prices TBA. Speedway Meadow, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco.

Solano Stroll Since 1974, folks from all over the East Bay have enjoyed the massive street fair, featuring all kinds of entertainment, including more than five hundred vendors. The event includes a traditional pancake breakfast and theme parade, plus entertainers, food vendors, juried arts and crafters, games, art cars, and community organizations. Typically held in September. Solano Ave., Berkeley, SolanoAvenueAssn.org.

October

Montclair Village Music & Wine Festival Featuring local music, art, fashion shows, food, beverages, beer, and fine wines, plus three stages of family entertainment. Sun., Oct. 17, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., free. Mountain Village Park, Oakland. MontclairVillage.com.

Dia de los Muertos Sun., Oct. 31, free. Fruitvale District, International Blvd. from Fruitvale Ave. to 35th Ave., Oakland.

Exotic Erotic Ball Expect thousands of half-naked women, porn stars, freaks, and lots of making out at this late-night rave and sex party. Typically held in October. Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City, ExoticEroticball.com.

Fall Antiques & Collectibles Street Faire With vintage, retro and antique home decorations, clothing, furniture, jewelry, art, pottery, books and collectibles from more than 400 dealers. For info, call 510-522-7500, or visit PleasantonAntiqueFaire.com. Oct. 10, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., free. Downtown Pleasanton, Main St., Pleasanton, 925-484-2199.

Halloween Spooktacular Trick or treat at downtown businesses. Oct. 31, 1-4 p.m. Main St., Martinez. MainStreetMartinez.org.

Halloween on Solano Trick or treat at downtown businesses, plus costume contest. Oct. 31. Solano Ave., Berkeley, SolanoAvenueAssn.org.

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Music festival held in Golden Gate Park. Typically held in October. StrictlyBluegrass.com.

Lions Club Halloween Parade Parade starts at 3:30 p.m. at the Village Park entrance close to Bank of America and winds its way down Mountain Blvd., turns right on La Salle Ave., turns right on Moraga Ave., and returns to the Park. Fri., Oct. 29, 3-5 p.m., free. Mountain Village Park, Oakland. MontclairVillage.com.

Mill Valley Film Festival Marin County’s California Film Institute uses its clout as the hometown of many movie professionals to put on the one of the quirkiest and most intelligent fests anywhere, without the marketplace sensibility and ego trips — it’s non-competitive. Oct. 7-17. Christopher B. Smith Rafael Film Center New, 1118 Fourth St., San Rafael, MVFF.com.

Oakland Black Cowboy Parade & Festival Sat., Oct. 2, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., free. Downtown Oakland, 18th and Adeline sts., Oakland.

Oakland International Film Festival Oct-7-14. Grand Lake Theater, 3200 Grand Ave., Oakland. OIFF.org.

Oaklavia: Come Play in the Street Route TBD. Sun., Oct. 10, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Fruitvale, Oakland.

Oktoberfest in the Dimond Sat., Oct. 9, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., free. MacArthur Blvd. at Dimond Ave., Oakland.

Pacific Fine Arts Festival More than ninety professional artists from across the western US will showcase their works. Sat., Oct. 2, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun., Oct. 3, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mountain Blvd. at La Salle Ave. and Antioch Ct., Oakland. MontclairVillage.com.

Park Street’s Classic Car Show This annual car show has a bumper-to-bumper crop of more than four hundred primo vehicles that have been waxed, buffed, and shined so fine that onlookers can see their reflections in the gleaming panels and bumpers of the hardtops and hatchbacks. Sat., Oct. 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., free. Park St., Alameda, 510-523-1392, ShopParkStreet.com.

Pub Crawls Details TBA. Various locations in the East Bay. Oct. 29 & 30.

Treasure Island Music Festival The two-day fest, co-organized by the folks who bring you Noise Pop and the Outside Lands Music & Arts Festival, is a must-attend event for anyone curious about surveying the state of independent music. Acts TBA. Typically held in October. Treasure Island, TreasureIslandFestival.com.

Taste for Art Party Express-sponsored party. Location & details TBD. Oct. 1.

November

The Big Game The annual football game between longtime rivals Stanford University and Cal. Typically held in November. At Cal or Stanford Stadium. CalBears.cstv.com.

Wine Stroll Spend the afternoon and early evening tasting wine in downtown Martinez. Date TBA. Tickets include a wine glass, wine, and map of participating businesses. $15, $20. Historic Downtown Martinez, MainStreetMartinez.org.

December

Holiday Frolic, Snow Park & Ice Skating Enjoy a snow park, ice skating, light parade, Santa, and more. Dec. 3, 4, 6. Historic Downtown Martinez, MainStreetMartinez.org.

Holiday Tree Lighting Fri., Dec. 3, 6-8 p.m., free. Jack London Square, Oakland.

Montclair Village Holiday Stroll Village merchants stay open to welcome shoppers and their families for a gala kick-off to the holiday season. Activities include window display contest, entertainment, music, refreshments, and more. Thurs., Dec. 2, 6-9 p.m., free. Streets of Montclair Village, Oakland. MontclairVillage.com.

Oakland Holiday Parade This parade delights kids big and small, drawing as many as 70,000 people with giant helium balloons, cartoon and storybook characters, marching bands, floats, and more. Sat., Dec. 4, 2 p.m., free. Broadway and 11th St. to 20th St., to Harrison St., OaklandHolidayParade.com.

Photos with Santa Take your photo with Santa. Dec.3-24. Historic Downtown Martinez, MainStreetMartinez.org.

Pleasanton Hometown Holiday Celebration Dec.4, 4-8 p.m., free. Downtown Pleasanton, Main St., Pleasanton, 925-484-2199.

Sweet Ass Mustache Party With DJs and prizes. Typically held on Dec. 31. Ben & Nick’s Bar & Grill, 5612 College Ave., Oakland.

Telegraph Avenue Holiday Street Fair Vendors from far and wide set up shop in the streets, where all manner of gifts — framed black-and-white photos, wooly hats, screen-printed T-shirts, artwork, ceramics, jewelry, and more — can be found at prices that won’t break your bank. Typically held on the weekends in December before Christmas. Telegraph Ave. between Dwight and Bancroft ways, Berkeley, TelegraphFair.com.

January

Angel Island Trail Run With spectacular views of Marin County, San Francisco, and the Golden Gate, the trail circles the entire island and climbs Mount Livermore. You can choose from the 8K, 16K, 25K, or 50K runs. Hikers are welcome, too. Bring the whole family and enjoy a post-run picnic at beautiful Ayala Cove. Typically held in January. Visit PCTrailruns.com for more information.

Noir City East Bay author Eddie Muller’s annual film noir extravaganza always manages to dig up a few “new” old hardboiled movies you never heard of, peppered with appearances by the original stars and filmmakers. Easy to get hooked on, hard to swear off of. Typically held in January. NoirCity.com.

SF Sketchfest Comedy festival. Typically held January-February. Held in various locations. SFSketchfest.com.

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