Summer isn’t over just yet! September brings some of the Bay Area’s most beautiful days, with warm afternoons, golden evenings and plenty of reasons to get outside and enjoy them.
From art and wine festivals to live music, football, harvest celebrations, and even a day at the beach, there’s something happening in nearly every direction. With 21 days of summer still on the calendar, it’s the perfect time to savor the season—and maybe squeeze in a weekend adventure or two close to home.
See below for some wonderful options near you!
Flower Piano 11th Anniversary| San Francisco | Sept. 10-20
Experience the San Francisco Botanical Gardens in a whole new way with live music, hidden pianos, and performances that turn this beautiful landscape into an al fresco concert hall. Zoox Lounge tickets offer an oasis-like space with special performances by local headliners, access to premium bars, food from local makers, and comfortable lounge seating. Learn more here.
Mountain View Art & Wine Festival |Mountain View | Sept. 12-13
Stroll, sip, and explore fine arts and crafts at one of the largest and most beloved festivals in the South Bay, the Mountain View Art & Wine Festival. This popular event transforms Castro Street into an entertainment hot spot, featuring over 400 of the region’s finest artists and craft-makers, live music, and curated food and drink. Learn more at mvartwine.com.
63rd Annual Great Sandcastle Contest | Carmel-by-the-Sea | Sept. 19
Bring your friends and family to the sun-kissed shores of Carmel Beach to compete for the “Golden Shovel” in this cherished tradition presented by the city of Carmel-by-the-Sea and the Monterey Bay chapter of the American Institute of Architects. This year’s theme, “It Never Gets Old: Carmel at 110” celebrates the 110th birthday of the city’s incorporation. For more details, go here.
San Francisco 49ers vs. Miami Dolphins | Santa Clara | Sept. 20
Join the Niner Faithful in cheering on the Bay Area’s own 49ers against the Miami Dolphins at the first home game of the regular season at Levi’s Stadium. Get tickets here.
Fall Wine Walk | Downtown Campbell | Sept. 17
Discover 30-some amazing winemakers as you stroll through fun-loving downtown Campbell at this one-night oasis of great bands, great food, and great wine. Now in its 17th year, this is one of the original Bay Area wine walks. Buy tickets here.
KRTY Song and Wine Series| San Martin | Sept. 10 & 11
Enjoy a late-summer eve listening to songwriters perform top country hits at one of the best kept secrets in the South Valley, beautiful CordeValle Winery. Hear the writers tell the stories behind the songs in an intimate, acoustic-in-the-round performance while you take in the stunning scenery and sip delicious wine. Check out the lineup here.
Los Gatos Art & Wine Festival | Los Gatos | Sept. 26-27
Shop, dance, and sip at the annual Los Gatos art and wine festival, Fiesta de Artes, featuring over 200 artists, live music all day, fine wines by local vintners, and tempting food trucks. All proceeds go back to the community to support local at-risk high schoolers, leadership clubs, and community service projects supported by the Kiwanis Club of Los Gatos. Visit losgatosfiesta.com.
69th Monterey Jazz Festival |Monterey County Fairgrounds | Sept. 25-27
Visit the Monterey Jazz Festival as it celebrates its 69th year with headliners Herbie Hancock & Ron Carter, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, and many other legendary musicians, composers, and young rising stars. This massive musical gathering spanning three days and nights features dozens of performances on multiple stages, alongside conversations, workshops, food, and shopping. For schedule and tickets, visit montereyjazzfestival.org.
Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival | Sonoma| Sept. 24-27
Step into the heart of harvest and the “Year of Community” at this year’s Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival for a weekend of wine, music, food, and fun on the historic Sonoma Plaza. Join in a 5K Fun Run or Vintage 1-Miler to start the day, followed by the Blessing of the Grapes, Grape Stomp, Artisan Fair, live music, and so much more. For more info and tickets, click here.
