Top Bay Area Family-Friendly Events in August 2025
- xyang960
- Aug 20
- 3 min read
August in the Bay Area is packed with music, culture, food, outdoor adventures, and even pet-friendly activities. We’ve selected 10 family-friendly events that combine education, entertainment, and interactive experiences. Each listing includes key details on time, location, and cost, making it easy to plan your summer outings.
Bay Area Family-FriendlyEvents August 2025
Date: August 9–10, 2025, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Yerba Buena Gardens, San Francisco, CA
Admission: Free
The largest Filipino cultural festival in San Francisco, Pistahan offers a vibrant mix of cultural and artistic activities for the whole family. Highlights include a grand parade, traditional dances, martial arts demonstrations, live music, and eight cultural pavilions. The children’s area features crafts, family dance, and Filipino language activities. The food zone serves up Filipino street snacks and homestyle dishes—perfect for kids to try something new.
Date: Saturday, August 2, 2025, 11:30 AM – 5:45 PM (festivities continue into the evening)
Location: Jerry Garcia Amphitheater, McLaren Park, San Francisco, CA
Admission: Free
Celebrating the birthday of rock legend Jerry Garcia, this community festival is now in its 23rd year, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the Grateful Dead. Families can enjoy live performances from bands like Melvin Seals & JGB and Stu Allen & Mars Hotel. Activities include face painting, interactive games, and a kids’ craft zone. Families are encouraged to use public transit or biking due to limited parking.
Date: August 16–17, 2025
Location: Stern Grove Park, San Francisco, CA
Admission: Free (reserved picnic seats & VIP passes available for purchase)
A San Francisco summer tradition, the Stern Grove Festival wraps up its 2025 season with a two-day “Big Picnic Weekend.” This year’s headliners include Damian Marley, Stephen Marley, and Diana Ross. Tickets are free but distributed by lottery and at on-site box offices. Families can bring picnic blankets, food, and drinks to enjoy music in a natural setting with up to 15,000 attendees.
Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Location: Yerba Buena Gardens, SoMa, San Francisco, CA
Admission: Free
This community arts festival dedicates a special Family Day with music, dance, improv theater, and interactive art workshops. Kids can join in small theater performances, try instruments, paint, or explore sculpture. The outdoor setting provides space for all ages to enjoy art and culture together.
Date: August weekends (check schedule for exact dates)
Location: Golden Gate Park and other local parks
Admission: Free
Since 1983, San Francisco’s Shakespeare in the Park has brought classic plays such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream and As You Like It to audiences of all ages. Families can spread out picnic blankets and enjoy free outdoor theater while introducing kids to literature and the performing arts.
Date: August 8–10, 2025
Location: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA
Admission: Day passes from $225 per person
One of the Bay Area’s biggest music and arts festivals, Outside Lands blends world-class performances with food, art installations, and eco-friendly experiences. Families can enjoy kid-friendly zones like Fiesta en el Parque with music, dance, crafts, and face painting. The festival also features a wide range of dining options and interactive food experiences. Although tickets are pricey, families can come and go throughout the day, making it possible to balance entertainment with downtime.
These ten events bring together culture, music, nature, and family-friendly fun, offering something for every age group. Whether you’re looking for free entertainment, educational experiences, or vibrant festival energy, August in the Bay Area has you covered. Be sure to check ticketing and transit details in advance, and pack a picnic blanket or snacks to make the most of your summer weekends and evenings.
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