The San Francisco area offers year-round events and activities for everyone . . .

SAN FRANCISCO – San Francisco is blessed with a mild climate year-round, which makes outdoor festivals and celebrations a great way to explore the culture of this world famous city by the bay. San Francisco’s historic neighborhoods as well as the city’s favorite parks, art, music, food and culture are celebrated at numerous festivals throughout the year.

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Browse the San Francisco event calendar below for many of the great events that the San Francisco, CA has to offer year 'round.

 January            

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College Baseball

From the crack of the bat to the slide on into home, NCAA baseball packs a wallop of home run frenzy for what's oft called America's favorite pastime. Diamond action starts in January, continuing through most of June. CSU-EB Pioneers, California Golden Bears, Pacific Tigers, St. Mary's Gaels, San Jose State Spartans, Santa Clara Broncos, Stanford Cardinals, USF Dons

Sea Lion's Arrival

Bring your family to watch herds of barking sea lions returning to the Bay area. Join the crew at Pier 39 in mid-January for this annual event. Call (415) 705-5500 for more information.

Silicon Valley International Auto Show

Early in January, the San Jose McEnery Convention Center hosts an exhibition of the lastest cars, crossovers, trucks, and alternative fuel vehicles which can be test driven. Call (408) 295-9600 for more information.

Berlin and Beyond Film Festival

Castro Theater hosts a German language film fest providing highlights of recent European cinema. Call (415) 263-8760 for more information. Independent Film Festival

Independent Film Festival

Bay area directors are showcased at this annual two-week festival, beginning the last day of January, at the Roxie Cinema and Castro Theatre. Call (415) 227-2603 for more information.

ZAP Festival

In early to mid January, regional growers of the state's varieties of Zinfandel convene at major venues in downtown San Francisco to present exhibitions, tastings, instruction on food pairings, and informative programs on the distinguishing features of each region, sponsored by the Association of Zinfandel Advocates & Producers (ZAP). Call (530) 274-4900 for more information.

Chinese New Year

San Francisco’s Chinese New Year celebrations begins with a ribbon cutting and Flower Fair filled with candy, fresh fruit, blooming flowers and other supplies with symbolic meaning for a new year. Entertainment includes traditional lion dancing, Chinese opera and martial arts demonstrations. Events continue well into February, when the world-famous grand illuminated Chinese New Year Parade will roll out with extravagant floats, lion dancers, more than 100 marching bands and school groups, Chinese acrobats, plenty of firecrackers and a 250-foot dragon that must be carried by more than 100 people. Call (415) 982-3000 for more information.

Critical Mass

On the last Friday of every month, cyclists from all over the city take over the financial district's Justin Herman Plaza at rush hour. What started as a protest over public transportation has now become a regular San Francisco event. Call (415) 227-2603 for more information.

 February            

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Pacific Orchid Exposition

Don't miss the annual display of San Francisco Orchid Society's best collections, at the Fort Mason Center, located along San Francisco Bay between Fisherman's Wharf and the Golden Gate Bridge, around the third week in February. Call (415) 546-9608 for more information.

California Antiquarian Book Fair

The world's largest rare book fair also features manuscripts and related materials including maps and more. Call (415) 551-5190 for more information.

Annual Bon Appetit Wine & Spirits Focus

Crab fare from San Francisco's top restaurants pair with leading regional wines at this annual gala at Fort Mason's Festival Pavilion. Call (888) 343-6287 for more information.

Historic Fisherman's Wharf Classic Car Exhibit

Cooking exhibitions, wine tasting, art and a parade of historic cars are part of this vehicular extravaganza. Call (415) 647-7078 for more information.

Union Street Has A Crush On You Valentine Wine Walk

In the Pacific Heights neighborhood, all along Union Street between Gough Street and Steiner Street, and along Fillmore Street from Union Street to Lombard Street, a few days preceding Valentine's Day, taste wines and sample foods from local vintners and restaurants. The event is free and open to the public, and 'tasting wristbands' also are available at additional cost. Call (800) 310-6563 for more information.

Victorian Valentines

On Valentine's Day at 11 AM, you can ride the Roaring Camp Railroads, Santa Cruz Big Trees Railroad in Felton, and your valentine can ride for free! Just buy one steam train ticket, and present the love letter you wrote to your valentine. Call (831) 335-4484 for more information.

Ms. Chinatown USA Pageant

As part of the Chinese New Year celebration, the Palace of Fine Arts at 3301 Lyon St. hosts contestants from all over the country, who will compete for a chance at the Miss Asia title in Hong Kong. Call (415) 563-6504 for more information.

 March            

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San Francisco International Asia American Film Festival

Attend the largest exhibition of Asian and Asian-American films in North America. Entries include works from India, Asia and North America, and will be shown in mid-March at the AMC Kabuki 8 Theatres. Call (415) 255-4299 for more information.

SF Jazz Spring Season

Concerts at various venues from March through June include family matinee performances. Call (415) 398-5655 for more information.

St. Patrick's Day Parade

One of the longest-running parades in the U.S. is celebrated with live music, dance, beverages and traditional Irish cuisine. Call (415) 675-9885 for more information.

San Francisco Flower & Garden Show

Among the nation's largest spring shows, the Cow Palace event displays gardens, spring plantings, accessories, decorations and more. Call (800) 829-9751 for more information.

Street Performer's Festival

Jugglers, unicyclists, slack rope walkers and other artistes comprise the famous Bay Area street performers. See this unique show on the last weekend in March, from noon to 5 PM, at the entrance plaza to Pier 39. Call (415) 705-5500 for more information.

Extraordinary Egg Hunt

Roaring Camp Railroads and The Santa Cruz Big Trees Railroads in Felton will be your host on the last weekend in March. Bring your children on a ride to Bear Mountain, and hunt for candy eggs in the redwood forest. Call (831) 335-4484 for more information.

 April            

Select Other Month January February March April May June July August September October November December

Major League Baseball

Nothing signals advent of spring more than baseball with a capital B, tightly meshed into American culture with historic firsts, icon performances, record-setting events, and traditions from hot dogs slathered in mustard to unexpected curveballs, and seventh-inning stretches. Books and movies about baseball are fine and dandy, but nothing beats Major League Baseball action, playing out each season from April through the World Series.

Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival

Japantown turns the streets into a walking mall and street fair with vendor booths and parades, in mid-April. Spend the weekends enjoying Japanese food, origami, music, dance, visual and martial arts demonstrations, children's activities, a parade and more. Call (415) 563-2313 for more information.

Dine for a Change

In early April, participating restaurants throughout San Francisco will donate up to 40% of their proceeds to San Francisco Women Against Rape (SFWAR), to support efforts of community organizations to combat sexual violence. Call (415) 861-2024 for more information.

Bustamante Antiques Show and Sale

More than 140 prestigious dealers showcase a variety of fine art, furniture, jewelry, vintage timepieces and more at Fort Mason's Festival Pavilion. Call (209) 358-3134 for more information.

Cambodian New Year Festival

Staged at the Scottish Rite Center, evening cultural programs feature performances of Khmer classical ballet and folk dance, plus social dance with a live band and a popular Cambodian vocalist. Call (408) 239-6296 for more information.

Sidewalk Arts and Crafts Show

Over a weekend in mid-April, the shops, coffeehouses and restaurants along West Portal Avenue between 15th and Ulloa in southwest San Francisco offer specials during this neighborhood open-air arts and crafts festival. Call (415) 566-3500 for more information.

Spring BBQ and Wine Tasting

New York steak barbecue, pasta con pesto, fresh Salinas Valley salad, and sweet treats are part of this tasting, featuring 13 wineries including Hecker Pass, Fortino, Kruse, Zanger, and Savannah Channelle. Festivities include live music, dancing and wine barrel rolling races, and designated drivers are recommended. Call (800) 842-6162 for more information.

San Francisco Walk Against Rape

In mid to late April, San Francisco Women Against Rape (SFWAR) invites survivors, friends, family and supporters to walk 3.1 miles from Justin Herman Plaza to Dolores Mission Park, to enjoy speakers, performers, food, beverages and festivities, in support of community efforts against sexual violence. Call (415) 861-2024 for more information.

Great Train Robbery

See wild west gun fights and a train robbery on the Roaring Camp Railroads, Santa Cruz Big Trees Railroads in Felton, mid-April. Call (831) 335-4484 for more information.

San Francisco International Film Festival

Some 200 films and videos from more than 50 countries are screened at America's oldest annual film festival. Call (415) 931-FILM for more information.

San Francisco Wine Auction

For some three decades, the San Francisco Wine Auction presented by The Guardsmen has reigned as a spirited fundraiser for Bay area disadvantaged children. Pouring vintners include world-class entities such as Silver Oak, Heitz, Caymus and Nickel & Nickel. More than 50 live auction and 100 silent auction lots include extraordinary cult wines, vacations and more. Call (415) 561-2700 for more information.

International Lao New Year Festival (ILNYF)

Over the last weekend in April, or first weekend in May, United Nations Plaza at Fulton Street hosts a Southeast Asian American cultural festival, representing the Lao, Vietnamese, Cambodian, and Burmese communities, and featuring authentic food, Lamvong dancing, live music, fashion show and pageant, lots of family activities, and a cash bar at St. Mary's Cathedral in the evening. Call (415) 680-4027 for more information.

 May            

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Opening Day on the Bay

The arrival of May kicks off San Francisco Bay's sailing season with a festive boat parade and blessing of the fleet, embarking from Pier 39, sponsored by Pacific Inter-Club Yacht Association comprising nearly 100 northern California yacht clubs. Call (415) 999-6422 for more information.

International Children's Festival

Early in May, children and their families from all over the world gather to sample a multi-cultural array of food, music, dance, games and activities designed to bring together our global community, in the Music Concourse Bandshell area of Golden Gate Park, sponsored by Pacifica Institute and Bay Area Cultural Connections. Call (408) 747-1478 for more information.

Anatriptic Arts Expo

Attend the annual convention of healing arts and sciences, at Herbst Pavilion and the Cowell Theater, the first week in May. Practitioners of massage and other physical therapies will share the latest knowledge in their fields. Call (888) 925-HAND for more information.

Sea Music Festival

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park at Hyde Street Pier presents local artists and performers from across the U.S to bring seafaring heritage alive on assorted stages. Call (415) 561-7000 for more information.

Asian Heritage Street Celebration

At the Japan Center on Post Street, the day-long Asian Heritage Street Celebration, recognizing Asian Pacific American Heritage month, hosts live entertainment, a variety of multi-lingual booths, food and drink, and special performances. Call (415) 321-5869 for more information.

A La Carte & Art Festival

The Mountain View Central Business Association hosts an open-air festival of live music, arts and crafts along Castro Street, including health and wellness displays, organic gardening programs, and more. Call (650) 964-3395 for more information.

Evergreen Fine Arts Festival

In San Jose, the Evergreen Fine Arts Festival at Evergreen Village Square over the Memorial Day holiday includes watercolors, photographs, ceramics, woodwork and other fine art presented by California's finest artisans. Call (209) 296-1195 for more information.

Mural Awareness Month Festival

Celebrating muralism, muralists and Bay area community art, this annual festival at Precita Park includes live bands, children's art activities and booths exhibiting art and merchandise. Free admission. Call (415) 285-2287 for more information.

San Francsico Bay to Breakers Footrace

In mid-May, the world's largest footrace takes place as more than 70,000 runners in costume push off from the Embarcadero, heading to the Great Highway. Call (415) 359-2800 for more information.

San Francisco Art Institute MFA Exhibit

See Master of Fine Arts students' work, from the Bay Area's famous art school, on display at the Herbst Pavilion, mid-May. Call (415) 771-7020 for more information.

Civil War Battles and Encampment

Santa Cruz Big Trees Railroads in Felton is sponsoring the annual reenactment of Civil War battles. Visit Union and Confederate camps, late May. Call (831) 335-4484 for more information.

San Carlos Fine Arts & Crafts Festival

Sponsored by the San Carlos Chamber, things get artsy downtown on Laurel Street with the San Carlos Fine Arts & Crafts Festival's three blocks of watercolors, jewelry, photographs, sculpture and more to attract families. Call (559) 917-6304 for more information.

San Francisco Carnaval's Grand Parade and Festival

Over Memorial Day weekend, San Francisco Cultural Arts Traditions (SFCAT) sponsors a parade down Harrison Street between 16th and 22nd Streets as part of California's largest muli-cultural fair, featuring floats, musicians, dancers and other performers, ethnic food, and cultural artistry, with plenty of kids' attractions and family-oriented entertainment and activities. Call (415) 642-1748 for more information.

 June            

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Walk for Hope

Over the first weekend in June, to benefit research and treatment programs for women with gender-related cancers, Staples sponsors a walk commencing at Justin Herman Plaza in downtown San Francisco. 1 Market Street. Call (213) 241-7294 for more information.

San Jose Orchid Exposition

Throughout the first weekend in June, the Miraido Club House in the historic Japantown area of downtown San Jose hosts an international exhibition and sale of orchids, a great opportunity to purchase orchids from the best growers in the world. 550 North 6th Street. Call (408) 623-0413 for more information.

Union Street (Eco-Urban) Festival

On the first weekend in June, San Francisco hosts one of the largest art fairs in the country, where hundreds of artists, gourmet food booths, live entertainers on two stages and hands-on art activities for kids of all ages are arrayed along Union Street between Gough and Steiner in the Cow Hollow neighborhood. Call (800) 310-6563 for more information.

Chocolate & Chalk Art Festival

On the first Saturday in June, the 'Gourmet Ghetto' (1400 - 1800 Shattuck Avenue, Oakland) of restaurants and shops hosts a festival featuring chocolate samplings, crafts vendors, face painting, pony rides, jugglers, and a chalk art contest. Call (510) 548-5335 for more information.

Dine For A Change

Early in June, participating Bay area restaurants offer dining specials with a portion of the proceeds to benefit San Francisco Women Against Rape and their programs to raise awareness of the problem of sexual violence. Call (415) 861-2024 for more information.

The Great San Francisco Crystal Fair

Come to the Fort Mason Center, Marina Blvd. and Buchanan St., for the annual exposition of crystals, gems, and people who know the healing and other properties of these stones, in early June. Call (415) 441-3400 for more information.

Assorted Film Festivals

At the largest, oldest event of its kind in the world, the San Francisco International Lesbian and Gay Film Festival has more than 250 films. Call (415) 703-8650 for more information. The San Francisco Black Film Festival showcases a diverse collection from emerging and established filmmakers about African and African-American experiences. Call (415) 771-9271 for more information.

Fiesta Filipina

The biggest Filipino Festival in America celebrates independence with Filipino food, traditional dance and music with entertainment for all. Call (650) 871-6647 for more information.

Bayview District Sunday Streets Festival

Considered "the best street party" by SF Weekly, this community festival ambles through the Bayview, Dogpatch, and Potrero Hill neighborhoods, where there is food, live entertainment, and lots to watch everywhere. Call (415) 431-2453 for more information.

Summer Sailstice

On the weekend nearest the Summer Solstice, Summer Sailstice teams with Sailors for the Sea, and hosts a boating and sailing festival with live music, food and nautical activities, with proceeds benefitting programs to preserve the beauty of our oceans and inform sailors of the human impact on our fragile environment and wildlife, and to encourage good sailing practices. Encinal Yacht Club, 1251 Pacific Marina, Alameda. Call (415) 412-6961 for more information.

North Beach Festival

In mid-June, the North Beach district hosts an annual outdoor festival of arts and crafts, gourmet food, live entertainment, Italian street painting, staged cooking demonstrations, beverage gardens, a children's zone, and a blessing of the animals. Call (800) 310-6563 for more information.

World Environment Day

Pier 39 teams with the United Nations and city to celebrate World Environment Day. Activities include hands-on adventures and environmental displays at several venues. Call (510) 588-5100 for more information.

San Carlos Fine Arts & Crafts Festival

Downtown San Carlos gets artsy with more than 70 artists displaying watercolors, handcrafted jewelry, photographs, sculptures and more at this three-day festival along the 600 and 700 blocks of Laurel Street. Call (209) 296-1195 for more information.

Haight Street Fair

On the 2nd Sunday of every June, the Summer of Love is recreated in the Haight-Ashbury area, as thousands of people fill the streets. Call (415) 661-8025 for more information.

SF Gay Pride Parade

Always the last Sunday in June, the San Francisco Gay Pride Parade (to accompany a host of other celebration activities) begins at Market and Beale streets. Call (415) 864-3733 for more information.

Ethnic Dance Festival

Various ethnic dance associations, from the Chinese Hui Tama Nui to the Samba de Coracao, showcase the city's cultural diversity at the Palace of Fine Arts, 3301 Lyon St., starting the 2nd Saturday of every June. Call (415) 563-6504 for more information.

Harmony Festival

Staged at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds near Santa Rosa, Harmony Festival for decades has put together a stellar musical line-up. Call (707) 861-2035 for more information.

San Mateo County Fair

Sheld at the San Mateo Events Center, the best products, produce and livestock in San Mateo County are featured, along with many exhibits, midway rides, livestock shows, acrobatics, a petting zoo, floral displays, gourmet foods and local crafts, and lots of activities for the kids. Call (888) 798-0070 for more information.

Montclair Village Fine Arts Sidewalk Festival

During the last weekend in June, the Montclair Village business district of Oakland hosts a sidewalk art fair along Mountain Avenue at La Salle, between Park Boulevard and Thornhill Drive, where dozens of artists exhibit their paintings, sculpture, jewelry, photography and more. Call (510) 339-1000 for more information.

 July            

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Red Bull Streets of San Francisco

Watch street luge champions compete for the title of Red Bull and a $10,000. prize as they plunge down the steepest and fastest streets of San Francisco, at Deharo Street, between Southern Heights and Mariposa, the last week of July. Call (310) 393-4647 for more information.

Fourth of July Celebrations

You will want to leave your car and take public transportation to these events along the Bay, which begin with: Fourth of July Music Festival at 1PM at Pier 39, and end with fireworks beginning at 9:30 PM. The main event is sponsored by the San Francisco Chronicle. Call (415) 705-5500 (Pier 39), or (415) 227-2603 (San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau) for more information.Fourth of July at the Cannery, on Leavenworth Street at the foot of Columbus Street, has music all day leading up to fireworks. Call (415) 771-3112 for more information. Fourth of July at Ghirardelli Square features live music and free children's festivities. Call ( 415) 775-5500 for more information

Fillmore Street Jazz Festival

Between Jackson and Eddy streets, three stages have continuous jazz performances, along with more than 300 artist booths and international food courts. Call (800) 310-6563 for more information.

Mid-Summer Festival of the Arts

In the middle of July, downtown Menlo Park hosts an outdoor festival of the arts, featuring a Connoisseurs' Market on Santa Cruz Avenue between El Camino Real and Johnson Street, live music, a juried art show, chefs demos, wellness programs, local beer and wine producers, green product exhibits and an interactive kids' art area. Call (650) 325-2818 for more information.

AIDS Walk San Francisco

With more than 25,000 hitting the streets on the 6.2-mile route through Golden Gate Park, AIDS Walk San Francisco has raised more than $50 million to fight AIDS through the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and other Bay Area service organizations. The event enjoys strong support from the entertainment community and elected officials, with past participants including Robin Williams, Eartha Kitt, Stockard Channing, Sharon Stone, Leeza Gibbons, and Mayor Gavin Newsom. Call (415) 615-9255 for more information.

San Francisco Jewish Film Festival

Castro Theater and other venues within the Bay area showcase diversity and vitality of the Jewish Culture with works from American and international filmmakers. Call (415) 621-0556 for more information.

Biennial San Francisco Sex Worker Film and Arts Festival

Roxie Cinema, Ar+Space Gallery and other San Francisco venues host the biennial week-long convention of sex worker artists and filmmakers as they celebrate their place and role in the arts communities. Call (415) 861-1157 for more information.

Mime Troupe in the Park

Every weekend, especially in mid-July, Washington Square Park at Columbus and Union Sts. hosts various members of the San Francisco Mime Troupe in satirical political sketches. This is a San Francisco tradition that should not be missed. Call (415) 227-2603 for more information.

Montclair Village Fine Arts Festival

In Oakland, Montclair Village Shopping District's Mountain Boulevard becomes a Fine Arts Sidewalk Festival showcase for distinctive works of more than 90 artists. Call (209) 296-1195 for more information.

 August            

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AfroSolo Arts Festival

Bay Area artists of dance, theater, music, the spoken word and the visual arts are showcased throughout August at the San Francisco Convention and Visitors Bureau, 201 3rd St. Call (415) 227-2603 for more information.

Burlingame ArtzFest

Over the first full weekend in August, the City of Burlingame sponsors a downtown street festival along Burlingame Avenue featuring live entertainment, gourmet food, locally produced wines, jewelry and crafts, specials offered in local shops and restaurants, and lots of activities for the kids. Call (650) 344-1375 for more information.

San Francisco Aloha Festival

This arts event celebrates Pacific Isle culture, Polynesian dance, island food, music, ethnic arts and crafts. Call (415) 281-0221 for more information.

Polynesian Pride Festival

In Golden Gate Park and free for the entire family, Polynesian communities gather to celebrate heritage, with a main stage hosting dancers, vocalists, poets and a DJ for dancing, plus food and crafts booths. Call (415) 586-7474 for more information.

ArtworkSF Caf? Show

Running for nearly two weeks, the annual affair at SomArts Cultural Center celebrates diversity of the Caf? Arts with assorted activities including a variety show, improvisational comedy, belly dancing, poetry and more. Call (415) 505-3060 for more information.

Sunday Streets

San Francisco's Municipal Transportation Agency, SF Weekly and Livable City sponsor this street party around the Civic Center and Tenderloin. Call (415) 431-2453 for more information.

Circus Vargas

Acrobatics and aerial artistry are featured at the San Jose Flea Market in mid-August. 1590 Berryessa Road, San Jose. Call (877) 468-3861 for more.

Golden Gateway to Gems

Sponsored for a half century by the San Francisco Gem and Mineral Society, this annual show and sale in Golden Gate Park sparkles with minerals, crystals and jewelry. Call (415) 564-4230 for more information.

Nihonmachi Street Fair

Lion dancers, taiko drummers, arts and crafts, musical entertainment, food and children's events are part of this Japanese festival. Call (415) 771-9861 for more information.

ACC Craft Show

Sponsored for a half century by the San Francisco Gem and Mineral Society, this annual show and sale in Golden Gate Park sparkles with minerals, crystals and jewelry. Call (415) 564-4230 for more information.

Comedy Celebration Day

The city's comic talent comes to Golden Gate Park on the 3rd Sunday in August to celebrate their art. Free food, and sometimes Margueritas, are supplied. Call (415) 386-5035 for more information.

One Night Stand

At the SOMARTS Cultural Center, the One Night Stand promoted by ArtworkSF features exhibits from classical and romantic to art that ?turns you on." The evening includes romantic readings and erotic poetry performances, erotic films, a fashion show, artists available to sketch your portrait, artists working with nude models and more. Call (415) 673-3080 for more information.

East Bay Hills 5 Day Thru-Hike

At the end of August, participate in a 35-mile hike of Ridge Trail, featuring meals prepared by chefs, live entertainment in the evening, and shuttle connections via BART to the campsites for up to 5 days, to benefit the Bay Area Ridge Trail and other trail projects. East Bay Hills, Crockett Hill Regional Park, Crockett. Call (925) 254-8943 for more information.

 September            

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National Football League

If it's fall and you're ready for some football, count on the National Football League to deliver non-stop grid action, leading to playoffs, and the incomparable Super Bowl. The NFL has come a long way since its 1920 founding in Canton, Ohio at Ralph Hay's Hupmobile dealership. NFL action was first televised in 1939 when NBC broadcast within New York City. The NFL's Longest Day was on Christmas, 1971, in a playoff between the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins, and Miami's 17-0 Perfect Season unfolded the following year. But that's history, and prospects for new milestones start in September.

College Football

NCAA Football, created in 1997 to promote college football ideals, makes no bones about the importance of each game. Losing at any time during the season can thwart a team's chances for postseason action or an NCAA Championship. No wonder NCAA Football marketers have adopted a tagline of "NCAA Football: Every Game Counts."

Millbrae Art & Wine Festival

Downtown Millbrae, along Broadway between Victoria Avenue and Meadow Glen, hosts the Bay Area's largest Labor Day weekend celebration, with a Mardi Gras-style music, art and food festival, featuring local artists and craftsmen, microbrewers, vintners, and lots of activities for the kids. Call (650) 697-7324 for more information.

Mountain View Art & Wine Festival

Hundreds of artists and crafts vendors exhibit their work at this Silicon Valley festival in early to mid September, featuring live music, wine tastings provided by local vintners, health and wellness exhibitions, home and garden programs, and a special Kids' Park. Along Castro Street, Mountain View. Call (650) 968-8378 for more information.

Chocolate Festival

Celebrate chocolate in all its forms at Ghirardelli Square, 900 North Point St., around the second week in September. Compete in the sundae-eating contest and win your weight in chocolate. Call (415) 775-5500 for more information.

San Francisco Shakespeare Festival

Shakespearean classics unfold throughout the month on weekend afternoons in a tranquil environment near Golden Gate Park's Conservatory of Flowers. Call (415) 865-4434 for more information.

Orchards in the Park

In the middle of September, the San Francisco County Fair Building hosts an exposition and sale of orchids, sponsored by the San Francisco Orchid Society, where unique and rare orchids will be featured. 1199 9th Avenue. Call (415) 831-5500 for more information.

Old Grove Festival and Great Feast

In mid-September, Armstrong Redwoods State National Reserve hosts a wine and music festival, featuring top name entertainers and tastings of California wine country's best, with proceeds benefitting Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods in support of parks in the Russian River area. 17000 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville. Call (707) 869-9177 for more information.

Half Moon Bay Wine BBQ

Half Moon Bay Wine and Cheese presents its annual Wine BBQ with vintages from Australia, France and Spain, along with barbecued lamb, shrimp and a selection of grilled cheeses. Call (650) 726-1520 for more information.

Art Bark Fest

Art Bark Fest, an animal art, wine and music festival showcasing more than 40 fine arts booths, attracts canine enthusiasts from throughout the Reno, Tahoe and Bay areas. Proceeds benefit the Tahoe-Truckee Humane Society Pet Network. Call (877) 464-3364 for more information.

Absolut a la Carte, a la Park

Over Labor Day weekend, come to Golden Gate Park and sample many of the city's best restaurants at this outdoor festival of food, wine and beer. Call (510) 762-2277 for more information.

Fringe Festival

Theater companies from all over the world perform their favorite but lesser known works at the Exit Theatre, 156 Eddy St., in mid-September. Call (415) 931-1094 for more information.

Leland Avenue Street Fair

San Francisco's Visitacion Valley neighborhood hosts a street party featuring local artists, chefs' creations, live bands and lots of activities for children, along the Leland Avenue Retail Corridor. 1 Leland Avenue. Call (415) 468-6676 for more information.

Japantown Anime Faire

Staged at the Japan Center and the JDV Miyako Hotel, events include live performances and artist alley, a swap meet, video gaming and more, including a costume contest and anime contest. Call (415) 282-9428 for more information.

 October            

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National Hockey LeagueNational Hockey League

The National Hockey League's rough and tumble world packs a motherlode of milestones, from 1917's NHL opener, to when Maurice Richard was first to score 50 goals in one season in 1944-45, to when Clint Benedict was the first goalie to put on a mask after a shot knocked him unconscious, to when Manon Rheaume made headlines in 1992 as the first woman playing in one of the four major sports leagues, goaltending for the Tampa Bay Lightning against the St. Louis Blues. From October on, it's non-stop action in the world of hat tricks -- three goals in a game by a player -- and sudden death overtime.

Sake Day

On October 1, the 'day of sake' (Nihonshu no hi), essentially a Japanese-style Oktoberfest, is celebrated at the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California (JCCCNC), with proceeds benefitting different Japanese-related charitable programs. 1840 Sutter Street. Call (415) 824-8890 for more information.

Glass Pumpkin Patch

Over every weekend in October, Cohn-Stone Studio exhibits garden installations of nature-inspired glass art including pumpkins, gourds, leaves, flowers, and fruits. 560 South 31st Street, Richmond. Call (510) 234-9290 for more information.

Castro Street Fair

Arts and crafts, street vendors and performers of all kinds highlight this colorful annual celebration in San Francisco's gay district, on the first Sunday in October. Call (415) 894-2736 for more information.

Eat Local SF

During the whole month of October, public, private and non-profit sectors collaborate to market the benefits of eating food grown within a 250-mile radius, featuring chef demonstrations, food and wine tasting using all local ingredients, and featured in over 35 Bay Area restaurants. Call (415) 752-4882 for more information.

Litquake - San Francisco's Literary Festival

During the second week in October, in a variety of bars, galleries, theaters, bookstores and other venues throughout San Francisco, authors from all over the world gather to exhibit their works and present staged readings. Call (415) 440-4177 for more information.

Fleet Week

Pier 39, at Beach St. and The Embarcadero, celebrate the Navy's birthday with live bands and an air show by the Blue Angels, during the second week in October. Call (415) 705-5500 for more information.

Excelsior Festival

At Mission and Ocean streets, the Excelsior Festival showcases art and crafts booths, international foods, community resources, live music, kids' activities, and more. Call (415) 585-0110 for more information.

San Francisco Fall Antiques Show

As the West Coast's oldest, continuously operating international antiques show, benefiting enterprise for high school students, more than 70 dealers from America and Europe display and sell a broad range of collectibles at the Fort Mason Center. Call (415) 989-9019 for more information.

Octoberfest By The Bay

San Francisco's annual event at the Fort Mason Center's Festival Pavilion features German music, dancing, culinary delights, beer, wine, and more. Call (888) 746-7522 for more information.

Fairfax Feis - Festival of Irish Music and Dance

In middle of October, in Marin County venues on Broadway and Bolinas Road in Fairfax, enjoy a traditional Gaelic arts and cultural festival, featuring Irish hybrid and fusion music. Call (415) 451-1924 for more information.

International Vintage Poster Fair

Remember that poster you saw 20 years ago, and have not seen since then? It is probably here at the Fort Mason Center, mid-October, along with over 10,000 others dating back to the 1890s, at the oldest and largest poster fair anywhere. Call (415) 546-9608 for more.

Morgan Stanley Golf Invitational Tournament Benefiting Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

In mid to late October, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation sponsors a golf tournament at the Chardonnay Golf Club, 2555 Jameson Canyon Road, American Canyon, followed by a cocktail reception and buffet dinner. Call (415) 513-1099 for more information.

Canine Film Festival

Leaving no bones unturned doggone it, the Castro Theatre's Canine Film Festival organizers salute San Francisco as the nation's most dog-friendly city with films starring four-footed pals like Old Yeller. Proceeds benefit PAWS (Pets Are Wonderful Support). Call (415) 682-3647 for more information.

Organic Beer and Wine Tasting

During the last week of October, California Certified Organic Farmers fills the Ferry Building with state-certified vintners and brewers, who along with the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market vendors and live musicians, provide visitors with a continuous array of unexpected treats as they tour the exhibition. Proceeds benefit CCOF's non-profit programs. Call (831) 423-2263 for more information.

 November            

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National Basketball Association

Toronto, Canada was the site of the National Basketball League's first game on Nov. 1, 1946, with the Huskies hosting the New York Knickerbockers at Maple Leaf Gardens. Thirteen original rules were drafted by Dr. James Naismith, creator of basketball. Pro basketball suffered in popularity in the early 1950's, but one rule change -- that of the 24-second clock -- transformed the sport from a dull, stalling game to an exciting, offensive showcase. Icons along the way, from Bob Cousy and Wilt Chamberlain to Magic Johnson, Larry Bird and Michael Jordan, have immortalized what's now the National Basketball Association's game, creating long-standing rivalries from coast to coast.

College Basketball

First devised by James Naismith in 1891, with the first recorded collegiate game in 1893, legions testify there's no sound so soothing as a basketball whooshing through the net after a flick of the wrist. NCAA basketball brings grass roots hoop dreams to an entirely new level each fall, building toward March Madness, the NCAA Division Basketball Championships.

A Wine & Food Affair

Early in November, the wineries of the Alexander, Dry Creek and Russian River Valleys celebrate the Fall harvest with a series of winery tours, tastings and paired dinners, featuring over 100 different wineries in the region. Call (800) 723-6336 for more information.

Dia de los Muertos

Right after Halloween, at the beginning of November, the Mission Cultural Center at 2868 Mission Street sponsors this Mexican celebration of ancestral spirits, with a colorful parade of costumes and plenty of food. Call (415) 821-1155 for more information.

Food for Thought

In early to mid-November, restaurants in the Mission District offer discounts and specials to support Mission Graduates who work to increase the number of Mission District residents who are prepared for and graduate from college. Call (415) 596-9726 for more information.

Single Malt & Scotch Whisky Extravaganza

Early in November, the InterContinental Hotel San Francisco hosts an evening of dinner and tastings provided by the Scotch Malt Whisky Society of America, featuring over 120 rare single malt whiskies, a dinner buffet, imported cigars, and presentations by representatives from each of the respective distilleries. 888 Howard Street. Call (800) 990-1991 for more information.

Crush Festival

In mid November, the Berkeley Chamber sponsors a culinary festival featuring the best in locally produced food and wine, supplied by area restaurants, caterers and wineries, at the DoubleTree Hotel & Executive Meeting Center. 200 Marina Boulevard, Berkeley. Call (510) 549-7000 for more information.

Home Entertainment

This multi-day event showcases exclusive home theater, home audio and video of all levels with live music performances from jazz to classical. Call (212) 886-3681 for more information.

San Mateo Harvest Festival

In mid-November, the San Mateo County Event Center on Saratoga Drive in San Mateo hosts the largest indoor arts and crafts show on the West Coast, featuring hundreds of exhibitors showing over 24,000 works, live entertainers, strolling performers, marionette and puppet shows, and dancers. Call (415) 447-3205 for more information.

Duckhorn Wine Company's Holiday Tasting Experiences

From late November through the New Year holiday, Duckhorn Vineyards and Paraduxx Wineries host a series of multi-course wine-paired dinners at their vineyards in St. Helena, and at a number of other venues. The Food for Thought experience at Duckhorn Vineyards and An Unpredictable Pair experience at Paraduxx Wineries are presented each day. Call (707) 963-7108 for more information.

Tree Lighting Ceremony at Ghirardelli Square

Caroling performances and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus precede the annual ceremonial lighting of the 50-foot holiday tree trimmed with ribbons, ornaments and oversized Ghirardelli chocolate bars. Call (415) 775-5500 for more information.

Jazz Festival

The best, and some of the newest, jazz musicians in the world are playing in the city's restaurants and cafes through the first week in November. Call (800) 850-7353 for more information

 December            

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Craft Showcase

Take care of some of your Christmas shopping at the Fort Mason Center, Marina Blvd. and Buchanan St., throughout December, as metal, clay, wood and glass sculptors display their works. Call (415) 775-0990 for more information.

Holiday Tree Lighting

Downtown San Mateo hosts dancing, caroling, festive shop windows and a visit from Santa who lights the Christmas Tree starting the first week in December, on B Street in front of the Century Theater Plaza. Call (650) 342-5520 for more information.

Old First Concerts

Founded in 1970, Old First Concerts, supported by several arts organizations, presents a series of choral events exploring musical influence of other cultures. Call (415) 474-1608 for more information.

Great Dickens Christmas Fair

The Great Dickens event at the Cow Palace revives traditions of an old English Victorian Christmas with theaters, a music hall, dance parties, taverns, shops, stalls, food, street vendor and period costumes. Call (415) 897-4555 for more information.

San Francisco Ballet Nutcracker

Experience Tchaikovsky's traditional holiday ballet performed by the oldest and arguably one of the best ballet companies in the country, beginning mid-December, at the War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave. Call (415) 865-2000 for more information.

Matzo Ball

From a humble start in a Boston bar, Matzo Ball bashes in more than a dozen cities including Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia have arrived in San Francisco at Ruby Skye as a holiday party for Jewish singles on the night before Christmas. Call (415) 693-0777 for more information.

San Francisco Events Calendar Courtesy of ACVB

Established in 1913, ACVB is a private, nonprofit organization created exclusively to market metro San Francisco and Georgia as a premier convention, meeting and leisure destination in the regional, national and international marketplace and to favorably impact the San Francisco economy through conventions and tourism. For more information, visit www.atlanta.net.