Don't have enough going on this Independence Day weekend? We can help.
LISTEN
What: Fillmore's ode to easy listening brings together the culture of the historic Fillmore neighborhood with twelve blocks of arts and crafts, gourmet food and drink, and sweet tunes. The largest free jazz festival on the left coast features music and swing dancing on three stages from some of the city's best musicians. In its thirtieth year, the festival harkens back to the days when Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, and Billie Holliday found soul and song in the Fillmore.
When: Catch the sounds of sax and bass on July 4th from 10am-6pm before you scramble for a view of the fireworks. Or, nurse your patriotic hangover on Sunday, July 5 during the same hours.
Where: Good music, good food, and fascinating history will run the length of Fillmore Street from Jackson to Eddy.
PARTY
What: July 3rd is the first Friday of the month, meaning that the famed Oakland street festival is back with its ever-eclectic collection of food, drink, art, music, and community. The Korean Northgate neighborhood springs to life down Telegraph with a showcase of its many art galleries and local culinary talent during the always eventful experience.
When: Make your way across the bay on July 3rd from 5-9:30pm.
Where: Vendors and Oaklanders line Telegraph Avenue from W. Grand to 27th Street.
DRINK
Beer Garden NightLife at the California Academy of Sciences
What: The always boozy NightLife at the amazing Cal Academy of Sciences is bringing the focus to everyone's favorite botanical specimens: wheat and barley. NightLife brings a literal and scientific twist to its rendition of the beer garden, with floral docents on hand to educate you about the photosynthesis and Krebbs Cycle behind the brews you'll be clutching. Local breweries will be showcased, of course, and you'll have a chance to try your hand at the art of crafting with demos and DIYs.
When: Kickoff your Independence Day weekend a tad early on Thursday night from 6-10pm.
Where: You can mingle with the dinosaurs and fish at Golden Gate Park's own palace of scientific knowledge at 55 Music Concourse Drive.
CELEBRATE
Fourth of July at Shoreline Amphitheatre
What: Join the San Francisco Symphony in their annual trek to the South Bay for a unique 4th experience. The renowned orchestra will accompany a grand fireworks spectacular with a special tribute in honor of The Sound of Music's50th Anniversary.
When: Celebrate America on July 4th at 8pm.
Where: The spacious outdoor amphitheater is located in Mountain View, at 1 Amphitheatre Pkwy.
If you're looking for other ways to celebrate the Fourth, be sure to check out our guides to the various festivals and fireworks around the bay. Happy Fourth!
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