April is one of the most beautiful times of year across the Bay Area. The hills are lush and green, wildflowers are in full bloom, and the calendar fills with events worth getting out for. From vibrant festivals and open-air concerts to Easter celebrations and local wine strolls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to make the most of the season:
Free Golden Gate Park Bandshell Concerts | San Francisco |April
Catch one of these weekly free and family-friendly concerts nestled in Golden Gate Park all month long. Over 100 diverse concerts—from R&B, soul, and reggae to big band and rock—take place every season, presented by Illuminate and the San Francisco Recreation & Park Department. See the full schedule here.
Bunnies and Bonnets Easter Parade | Campbell | Apr. 4
Celebrate Easter with this delightful Easter Parade tradition in Downtown Campbell featuring local marching bands, floats, cars decorated like bunnies, kids’ groups, dog clubs, and of course, the Easter Bunny. A massive Eggstravaganza Easter egg hunt kicks off the morning at the Campbell Community Center, so bring a basket! Free to all. Visit DowntownCampbell.com.
*****Happy Easter! Apr. 5*****
Pebble Beach Food & Wine | Pebble Beach | Apr. 9-12
Experience this premier food and wine festival on one of the most picturesque strips of coastline in the entire world. This four-day festival brings together more than 150 wine and spirits producers with 150 distinguished chefs from across the nation for tastings, seminars, dinners, and more. Learn more and get tickets here.
43rd Annual Wildflower Run | Morgan Hill | Apr. 12
Lace up your running shoes for the 43rd annual Wildflower Run, a Morgan Hill tradition for the whole family. This all-volunteer run event includes a certified10K, 5K, 5K stroller/baby jogger, kids’ run, and an all-age 2K run/walk. Hosted by the American Association of University Women, it provides grants, scholarships, and leadership programs for women and girls. Learn more and register here.
Restaurant Week | San Francisco | Apr. 10-19
Celebrate the flavors of San Francisco’s unique and diverse neighborhoods with special prix-fixe menus from local restaurants during SF Restaurant Week. From gourmet cuisine to trendy cafes, don’t miss out on incredible hot dining deals and delicious experiences in the City by the Bay. Learn more here.
Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival | San Francisco | Apr. 11-12 & 18-19
Don’t miss this dazzling display of cherry blossoms at the 58th Annual Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival in Japantown. This colorful showcase of these delightful spring blooms highlights the grace and beauty of the Japanese culture. Enjoy traditional music and dance performances, tea and other cultural ceremonies, culinary treats, and a Grand Parade on the final Sunday of the festival. For more info, visit sfcherryblossom.org.
Spring Wine Walk | Willow Glen | Apr. 18
Sip and stroll the Avenue in charming Downtown Willow Glen and enjoy an afternoon of tasting great local wine. Come early to enjoy weekend brunch at one of many local eateries. For tickets and more info, go here.
15th Annual Downtown Wine Stroll | Morgan Hill | Apr. 25
Enjoy an afternoon in beautiful Downtown Morgan Hill experiencing amazing local wines, art, shopping and dining specials, live music, and dancing. For more info, go to VisitMorganHill.org
Holo Holo Music Festival | San Jose | Apr. 25
Soak in the island vibes at this lively outdoor music festival featuring a lineup of reggae, R&B, and Polynesian artists at Discovery Meadow in Downtown San Jose. With great music, food vendors, and a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to spend a spring afternoon. Learn more and get tickets here.
Spring Wine Walk | Los Gatos | Apr. 25
From 2PM to 5PM, stroll charming Downtown Los Gatos’ shops and restaurants and sip tastings from local wineries located between the Santa Cruz Mountains to the Central Coast. Find more info here.
Cherry Blossom Festival | Cupertino | Apr. 25–26
Celebrate the beauty of spring at this beloved South Bay tradition showcasing Japanese culture, community and seasonal blooms. Enjoy live performances, cultural exhibits, artisan vendors and a wide variety of delicious food. Held at Memorial Park, this vibrant, family-friendly festival is free to attend and a wonderful way to experience the spirit of the season locally. Learn more here.
“Opening Day on the Bay” Boat Parade | San Francisco | Apr. 26
Bring a picnic and watch the annual Opening Day on the Bay Boat Parade from Crissy Field on the San Francisco waterfront, marking the official start of the San Francisco boating season. Boats decorate to this year’s theme, “Myths and Legends,” celebrating the folklore, mythology and storytelling of maritime history. Go here for more details.
