Featured Event: An evening with NY Times Bestselling Author & Producer Alisa Lynn Valdes | July 27
Ay Dios Mio and Es Tiempo present a fundraiser for The Dirty Girls Social Club movie featuring an evening with Bestselling Author & Producer Alisa Lynn Valdes. Event will be located at Ay Dios Mio Shop, 100 N. Almaden Ave. #176, San Jose. Time 6-10 pm. http://on.fb.me/15X8lnT
Summer Festival & Chili Cook-Off | July 4
The tradition continues as we celebrate Independence Day with the 32nd annual Palo Alto Summer Festival & Chili Cook-Off. Attracting thousands of sun and chili lovers, the festival embraces everything wonderful about summer. Taste an array of red-hot chili delicacies prepared by over 20 teams of chefs battling for the chili championship. Live music, dancing, children’s activities, food vendors, and more will take place from 12pm to 5pm. Chili tasting starts at 1:30pm. Admission is free. Tasting kits will be sold for a nominal fee. Location: Mitchell Park, 600 E Meadow Drive, Palo Alto 94306. http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/cals/default.asp
4th Of July Parade – Freedom Fest 2013, Morgan Hill | July 4
Morgan Hill’s historic July 4th parade started in 1876 as our nation celebrated its first centennial, has has run uninterrupted ever since. This year’s parade theme is “Sing the Songs of America.” Our parade is considered to be the best home town fourth of July parade in N. California and is the official Santa Clara County Independence Day parade, with a street audience in excess of 50,000 spectators.There are more than 2,500 participants in the parading units, which include great marching bands, colorful floats, a variety of performance groups, and numerous specialty entries, all in a maximum of two hours. The parade is designed to provide an entertaining venue for patriotic celebration that everyone can enjoy. 9am Entertainment begins 10am Parade begins Ticket Information: Free. http://mhfreedomfest.com/freedomfest2012/?page_id=8
San Francisco Symphony With Fireworks | July 4
Close out your 4th of July celebration in style by joining the San Francisco Symphony at Shoreline Amphitheatre for a concert and fireworks spectacular. With Maestro Edwin Outwater taking up the conductor’s baton and bass-baritone Michael Sumuel providing powerful vocals, the orchestra presents a program of “American Journeys.” You’ll hear: Morton Gould’s “American Salute”; Bill Conti’s “Main Title From The Right Stuff”; several pieces written by John Williams for quintessentially American film scores, including “Superman” and “Jurassic Park”; Ward’s “America the Beautiful”; Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever”; and much more. 8 pm. Location: Shoreline Amphitheatre, 1 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View 94043-1352. Ticket Information: $24-$35 – plus- $10 for parking. http://www.livenation.com/events/245923/jul-4-2013/san-francisco-symphony-with-fireworks
Saratoga 4th of July Celebration | July 4
Strike up the band and join family and friends to celebrate Independence Day, Saratoga style. Mayor Jill Hunter will give the opening speech and Councilmembers Chuck Page and Howard Miller will emcee. Everyone is encouraged to wear red, white and blue in celebration of the day. Those who served in the military are encouraged to wear their uniforms. This special, free event includes: the color guard; patriotic tunes from the McCartysville Volunteer Band; singing, costumed American historical characters; and concludes with a family parade around the park. Free United States flags and popsicles are given to children. Time: 9:30am-11am. Location: Kevin Moran Park, 12415 Scully Avenue, Saratoga 95070. Ticket Information: Free http://www.saratogajuly4.com
Fiestas Fridas San Francisco | July 5 – 7
For everyone who loves Frida – check out the inaugural Fiestas Fridas San Francisco event July 5-7 celebrating the Life of Frida Kahlo and her relationship with the San Francisco Bay Area. The event kicks off with RECETAS DE CASA AZUL/Recipes of The Blue House – Opening Gala Dinner (21+) There is a 40% off dinner gala discount that you can retrieve on the @FiestasFridasSanFrancisco Facebook page.Location: San Francisco https://www.facebook.com/events/146768922174787/
Ziggy Marley & Steel Pulse | July 5
Ziggy Marley was born October 17, 1968 in Trenchtown, Jamaica. The eldest son of Bob and Rita Marley, Ziggy began his musical career playing with his father and his siblings Sharon, Cedella, and Stephen on “Children Playing in the Streets” in 1979. The siblings became known as Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, and they released their debut album, “Play the Game Right,” in 1985. In 1988, the band recorded “Conscious Party,” which won them their first Grammy. “Conscious Party” was produced by Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth and included the hit songs “Tomorrow People” and “Tumblin’ Down.”Steel Pulse may have explored various styles of music since they started out in 1975, but when it comes to the message, the United Kingdom’s Grammy-winning reggae band has remained close to their roots. The group has continued its commitment to fighting injustice, educating the masses, and promoting positive messages through spiritually uplifting music. :30pm 5:30pm Gates open. Location: The Mountain Winery,14831 Pierce Road, Saratoga 95070. Ticket Information: $49.50-$99.50 $20 Parking; $15 for carpoolers (3+/car). http://www.mountainwinery.com
Fiesta Fridas San Francisco | July 5-7
This inaugural event celebrates the Life of Frida Kahlo and her relationship with the San Francisco Bay Area. As the most Famous Mexican Artist of all time, her artistic expression of self, life, love and pain are universal themes that continue to impact artists worldwide. We’ve planned three days of revelry in the heart of San Francisco’s Mission District.
Friday July 5th, 2013- Mission Cultural Center Opening Gala Dinner (21+) 6pm to 11pm; Frida’s Fiestas Cookbook Dinner (Guadalupe Rivera); Tickets: http://recetasdelacasaazul.eventbrite.com/# $40 Advance / $50 at the door.
* San Francisco Restaurants make one of Frida Kahlo’s recipes for this Casa Azul kitchen inspired dinner (Puerto Alegre, Gracias Madre, Green Chili Kitchen, Chili Pie Restaurant, La Casa de Chocolate and more.)
* Beverages provided by Tequila Don Pilar and others.
* Dj Rosa la Rumorosa, Mariachi Femenil Orgullo Mexicano, Live Art by Bay Area artists, Face Painting for Adults, Pop-up Bookstore, Frida Vendors.
Saturday July 6th – Victoria Theater Film/Performance Evening 5pm to 11 pm; Tickets: http://teatrofrida.eventbrite.com/# $25 advance- all day or $12 per segment
*“The Life and Death of Frida Kahlo as told to David and Karen Crommie” of San Francisco, 1966 Documentary
* “Frida – Naturaleza Viva” The original Frida Movie. 1984 in Spanish Featuring Ofelia Medina.
*Performers Showcase featuring Live Music, Dancers and Performance Pieces by Local Artists.
* Beer & Wine, Concession Stand
* Local Food Vendors stationed just outside the venue
Sunday July 7th – Women’s Building Community Event 2pm to 9 pm; Auditorium
* DJ Anthony Valadez (KCRW Los Angeles) Frida inspired World Music Set
* DJ Rosa La Rumorosa Salsa & Latin Music Set
* Live Art, Performers, Dancers & Music on the main stage
* Local artists and vendors of Frida inspired art
* Frida Raffle featuring Restaurant Gift Certificates, Signed Bottle of Tequila Don Pilar, Fossil Calavera Watch and more
* Community Costume Contest – Best Frida, Best Frido (dressed like a boy), Best Fridita (kids), Best FriDrag, Best Frita (Funny Frida), Best Diego and Best Diegito
Unfiltered Underground Comedy Showcase | July 10
Butch Escobar presents “Unfiltered Underground”–comedy on the edge from some of the Bay Area’s brightest and boldest comedians. Butch Escobar’s view of life is what makes him perfect for this show–they don’t call it “Unfiltered Underground” for nothing, he quips. “This show is not for children and should not be tried at home.” Leave it to the professionals like Butch and the other “in your face” comedians. 8pm. Location: Improv Comedy Club, 62 S 2nd Street, San Jose 95113. Ticket Information: $12 Two-item minimum Ages 18+. http://sanjose.improv.com
Sabor Del Valle – Wine, Art, And Cooking Celebration | July 12
“Sabor del Valle” is an early evening of wine tasting, art, and cooking demonstrations, along with dancing under the stars. The event showcases Latino vintners from Napa and Sonoma Counties and from around Silicon Valley. Gourmet appetizers and desserts will be prepared and served by local restaurants. Music to dance to and contemporary Latino art for sale will also be featured. You are invited to join in celebrating the success of the community and help support the organizations making a difference here. The event will be outdoors in the waning hours of the day and is a lovely way to learn more about local and Latino vintners, tequila producers, and creative artists of Silicon Valley while supporting worthy causes. Time: 5:30pm-9:30pm. Location: History Park, 1650 Senter Road, San Jose 95112. Ticket Information: $50 $35 in advance City Parking $6, http://historysanjose.org/wp/events/sabor-del-valle/
San Jose Jazz High School All Stars – Music At The Market | July 12
Now in its 15th season, the San Jose Jazz High School All Stars feature some of the Bay Area’s most gifted young musicians. Representing ten high schools and led by Dr. Aaron Lington, the audition-based big band challenges students to gain a mastery of improvisation techniques while advancing their knowledge of music theory, arranging, composition, performance, and jazz history. Location: San Pedro Square Market, 87 N San Pedro Street, San Jose 95110. Ticket Information: Free. http://bit.ly/157uZx4
Extra Large (Soul, Funk) – Morgan Hill Friday Night Music Series | July 12
Sit back or dance the night away, enjoying music under the stars in Morgan Hill. There will also be wine, beer, and local merchants for your enjoyment at this community event. These concerts take place in the Community and Cultural Center’s Amphitheatre. This week features a performance by Extra Large playing soul and funk music. 6pm-9pm. Location: Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center, 17000 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill 95037. Ticket Information: Free. http://www.morganhill.org/friday-night-music-series
Summer Outdoor Movie Night | July 12
Enjoy a movie under the stars while celebrating how “Parks Make Life Better”! The movie showing will be “Madagascar 3.” Bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on. This event is sponsored by City of Mountain View Recreation Division & Youth Advisory Committee. Location: Cuesta Park, 615 Cuesta Drive, Mountain View 94040. Ticket Information: Free. http://bit.ly/r5b66B
Joey Medina & Richard Villa | July 12 – 14
Joey Medina, a Puerto Rican who was born and raised in the Bronx, New York, is one of the freshest and funniest comedians around today. Joey spent most of his teen years perfecting his boxing skills that would one day earn him a State Championship as a professional and a shot at the world title before becoming a heavy-hitter in the comedy arena. Joey is a veteran of over fifty television appearances, and he just completed his own Showtime Comedy Special, “Taking off the Gloves.” He headlines comedy clubs, casinos and theaters throughout the United States and has also toured Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Raised in the urban city of Compton, California, Richard Villa always knew he wanted to make people laugh. After completing a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Richard felt there was something more out there in store for him. While driving home one night, the neon lights of the Irvine Improv called his name. Seizing the moment of amateur night, Richard grabbed the microphone, went on stage, and has not stopped since. Using stories of his childhood, Richard Villa turned what he thought were basic experiences into autobiographical satirical humor that depict life for Latinos and other minorities in the United States. Amid his newfound talent in improvisation, Richard was accepted to The Groundlings Theatre Group. With his comedy and thorough understanding of his audience, Richard Villa became the first Latino to ever host the renowned Hollywood Improv on Friday nights. Fri: 8pm, 10pm Sat: 7pm, 9pm Sun: 7pm. Location: Improv Comedy Club, 62 S 2nd Street, San Jose 95113. Ticket Information: $18 Two-item minimum Ages 18+. http://sanjose.improv.com
Los Altos Arts And Wine Festival | July 13-14
The highly-rated Arts & Wine Festival showcases the distinctive works of artists and craftspeople from over a dozen states. The Festival also features select vintages by the glass from local wineries as well as a wide variety of foods including Thai, Chinese, Mexican, All American favorites like sausages, hot links and roasted corn, sweets of all kinds, and more. Enjoy our day-long free concerts from performers such as Sage, The Cocktail Monkeys, The House Rockers, Debbie Thacker, and Fred McCarty.The Festival is a great event for the whole family with a large selection of rides, activities and entertainment for children all weekend in the Kidzone. Sat, Sun: 10am-6pm. Ticket Information: Free. http://downtownlosaltos.org
Funky Latin Orchestra (Salsa, Latin) – Music In The Park, Redwood City | July 17
Funky Latin Orchestra (FLO) is a collective group of musicians out of the greater Bay Area with 30 years plus to each of their credits of professional entertaining, performing, recording, and touring with many music industry greats. FLO is ready to sweep you off your feet with the smooth and energetic sounds of the Mambo, Latin Jazz, Old Skool Funk, Latin Rock, R&B, Pop, Oldies, Salsa, and any other surprises that may be pulled out of their hat! 6pm-8pm. Location: Stafford Park – Redwood City, 2100 Hopkins Avenue, Redwood City 94062.Ticket Information: Free. http://bit.ly/cQMxKm
Music In The Park 25th Anniversary Concert With Ozomatli | July 19
Music in the Park returns to celebrate its 25th anniversary celebration with a single concert July 19. Grammy Award-winner Ozomatli will headline the paid admission show in St. James Park. Ozomatli’s “Embrace the Chaos” won a Grammy Award in 2002 for best Latin Rock/Alternative Album. The Los Angeles-based seven-piece band performs a mix of musical styles including Latin, rock, salsa, jazz, funk and reggae. Openers are “Sonido Clash Sessiones” featuring Raul Y Mexia, Philthy Dronez, Turbo Sonidero Futuristico and Chatos1013. Music in the Park started in 1989 as an eight-week, Friday lunchtime series in Plaza de Cesar Chavez. The series moved to Thursday evenings in 1990, eventually growing to 13 concerts. From 1998 to 2008, Music in the Other Park was produced in St. James Park in June ahead of the Plaza Park season. In all, SJDA produced 258 free shows. Parking in the Third-Santa Clara and Market-San Pedro garages is recommended. 5:30pm-9pm Concert. Location: St James Park – Downtown San Jose, St James Street & Second Street, San Jose 95113.Ticket Information: $15 day of show $10 in advance Children 12 and under free when accompanied by an adult. http://bit.ly/14irxyz
Viva la Vida Exhibit by Artist Anna Alvarado | July 20
Sassy and fun evening of Latina inspired art, special giveaways and a tribute to Frida Kahlo’s modern legacy. Location: Ay Dio Mio Shop, 100 N. Almaden Ave. #176, San Jose. Time 7-10 pm. http://www.vivalavidafrida.eventbrite.com
Day of the Dead Jewelry Class | July 20
Day of the dead jewelry class presented by Lorrain Garcia. All materials included to make a necklace, bracelet or earrings. Call to reserve a spot. $30 per student. Location: Spanglish Arte, 2512 J Street, Sacramento. http://www.shopspanglish.com
Fountain Blues Festival | July 20
John Mayall, the pioneering English singer and musician who has played with the elite artists of rock and blues, will bring his band to San Jose to headline the 33rd annual Fountain Blues Festival at St. James Park. Since the 1960s, Mayall and the Bluesbreakers toured with a revolving lineup of musicians, including: Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, Peter Green, and Mick Fleetwood. Mayall’s band now includes Rocky Athas on guitar, Greg Rzab on bass, and Jay Davenport on drums–each renowned in his own way. Thin Lizzy immortalized Athas with the song “Cocky Rocky” after watching him play one night. Davenport brings Chicago-style blues to the rhythm section, having paid his dues for decades with greats such as JuniorWells, Valerie Wellington, and Jimmie Johnson. Rzab is also a Chicago area native, earning accolades in both blues and rock circles playing with Albert Collins, Willie Dixon, and John Lee Hooker. Location: St James Park – Downtown San Jose, St James Street & Second Street, San Jose 95113. 12pm-8pm. Ticket Information: $20 $15 in advance Free for children 12 and under with paid adult http://fountainbluesfestival.com
Carlos Xavier (Latin) – Dinner Music Show | July 20
Growing up infused by the sounds of Salsa, Boleros, Baladas, Rock, Hip-Hop, and R&B, Carlos Xavier’s ear training and knack for music began at a young age. All the different beautiful genres and musical rhythms finally became part of Carlos’ blood at the age of 16 when singing turned into his passion. The San Francisco-born Carlos Xavier began singing at family events where he was embraced with a tremendous response from his family and friends. In 1998, Carlos joined his first band, Orquesta Kache, singing at all the major Salsa clubs in the Bay Area. Carlos wrote and recorded his first song in Lima, Peru entitled “Marchate.” 4:30pm Dinner Seating Begins 6pm Show. Location: Angelica’s Bistro, 863 Main Street, Redwood City 94063. Ticket Information: $16-$21 Plus dinner or two drinks with appetizer – $17 minimum Table reservations required. http://angelicasllc.com/entertainment.htm
The Fourth Annual Saratoga Classic Car Show | July 21
The Fourth Annual Saratoga Classic Car Show, organized by the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce by Tiger Teerlink of Alain Pinel Realtors, and Vice President of the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce, will be held Sunday, July 21st, 2013, in the historic Village of downtown Saratoga. Thousands attended last year and the same will be expected this year. Big Basin Way in the Saratoga Village will be transformed into a car lover’s dream with flags, vendors, sponsors, raffles, and live radio broadcasts, along with over 200 colorful, cool new and classic cars. A live band will have their tunes piped throughout downtown by wireless speakers, and for the first time there will be a “Cool Car Cruise” the day before the show to get the town “geared up” and to give local car collectors more to look forward to. Register your car by going to CoolCarClub.com or by calling the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce at 408-867-0753. Location: Saratoga Village, Big Basin Way & 5th Street, Saratoga 95070. Ticket Information: Free. http://www.saratoga-ca.com/intro.htm
Do It Yourself Day At History Park | July 21
Come spend the day with crafts people and learn how to spin, weave, and complete other crafts. Visit the Print Shop and print your own bookmark on an original press. Location: History Park, 1650 Senter Road, San Jose 95112. Ticket Information: Admission $5 City Parking $6. 11am-4pm. http://bit.ly/1aYDCfZ
Bruno Mars | July 25
After a string of behind-the-scenes jobs–everything from writing songs for Brandy to impersonating Elvis–singer, songwriter, and producer Bruno Mars put his name on top of the charts in 2010 by collaborating with rapper B.o.B. for the single “Nothin’ on You.” Born Peter Hernandez in Waikiki, Hawaii, Mars’ kicked off his career at the age of four fronting his uncle’s band as the Island’s youngest Elvis impersonator. Ten years later, he was impersonating the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, with the “Legends in Concert” show. After graduation, his uncle convinced him to move to the Mainland and follow of his dream of becoming a singer. There were months of frustration and going nowhere before Mars met songwriter Phillip Lawrence, the man who would convince him to try his hand at writing songs for other artists. Time: 7:30. Location: HP Pavilion, 525 W Santa Clara Street, San Jose 95113. Ticket Information: $41.50-$127.50. http://www.hppavilion.com/schedule/
Gilroy Garlic Festival 2013 | July 26-28
Ten tons of beef… four tons of pasta… four tons of calamari… and two tons of fresh Christopher Ranch garlic adds up to $9.3 million raised for local charity. Welcome to the 35th Annual Gilroy Garlic Festival. Whether a first-time visitor or a seasoned veteran (pun intended), it is always a fun and fragrant experience. Over three million honored guests have made the pilgrimage. Hosted by over four thousand volunteers over three days, it offers incredible food, arts & crafts, and live entertainment. The Gilroy Garlic Festtival is one of the premiere food festivals in the world. Location: Christmas Hill Park, 7050 Miller Avenue, Gilroy 95020-7102. Ticket Information: $8-$17 Free for kids 5 and under Parking is free with a shuttle running from the parking lot to festival grounds. The parking lots open at 9:00am each morning. Fri-Sun: 10am-7pm (Gates close at 6pm). http://gilroygarlicfestival.com
Romeo And Juliet | July 26-August 30
The year is 1960, and a culture clash between the bohemian, Beat Generation Montagues and straight-edge, Mad Men Capulets is seething just below the surface of the jazz-soaked urban landscape of Verona. Against this tumultuous backdrop, two idealistic young lovers seek to bridge the divide only to fall victim to a perfect storm of dashed hopes, fierce prejudice, and tragic misunderstanding. Shady Shakespeare Theatre Company invites you to experience the most famous love story of all time as you have never seen it before: set amid the vibrant, dynamic, and deeply conflicted era that in a matter of months changed the world forever. Location: Sanborn County Park, 16055 Sanborn Road, Saratoga 95070. Ticket Information: Premium Seating – $20 (Padded seats in the first 4 rows) General Admission – $15 (Plastic chairs in the 5th row and back) Kids 17 and under – Free (with paid adult) *Note: Tickets are available online and will also be available at the park. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, kids 17 and under will be admitted free with a paid adult. Kids must still obtain a physical ticket to gain entry.http://www.shadyshakes.org
Legally Blonde, The Musical | July 27- August 4
When California sorority girl Elle Woods follows her sweetheart to Harvard Law School, she finds its students immune to the charm that made her the toast of Delta Nu. Can she become the queen of torts and find love at the same time? Fri: 7:30pm Sat: 7:30pm Sun: 1pm -plus- Sun 7/28: 6:30pm. Location: Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro Street, Mountain View 94041. Ticket Information: $18-$22. http://www.pytnet.org
The Paintings Of Diego Rivera And Frida Kahlo In Movement -Dance Production | July 27
This innovative dance production is directed by award-winning artistic director Zenon Barron. Barron has taken on the challenge of bringing the works of two of Mexico’s most renowned artists to life. Along with providing us with masterpieces representing Mexico’s complex history, Diego and Frida lived fascinating lives that are put on display in this cutting edge performance. The production features contemporary and traditional costumes and movements that reflect the diversity of Mexico that was much valued by Diego and Frida. Location: School of Arts and Culture at Mexican Heritage Plaza, 1700 Alum Rock Plaza, San Jose 95116. Ticket Information: Adults: $30 Senior/Students: $25 Children: $20. http://mexicoextravaganza.com
Oliver Mtukudzi (Afro Pop) – Music In The Park, Los Gatos | July 28
All his life, Oliver Mtukudzi has written and performed some of the most heart-rending music against hatred and violence. He has composed music appealing for restraint, for tolerance–music about self-discipline and peace amongst the people of the world. His music has continued to touch people in many different ways, guiding and stirring past generations in the same manner the compositions will have an impact on the future. Time: 5pm-7pm. Location: Los Gatos Civic Center, 110 E Main Street, Los Gatos 95030. Ticket Information: Free. http://www.lgmip.com/miperformers.asp
The Wild Wild West – Target Summer Pops Festival | July 28
This performance is a family treat, with themes from Western films and television classics: “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly,” the “Wild Wild West,” “The Magnificent Seven,” and many more. Come early to enjoy the Festival’s first Sunday ice cream social–all free! This concert is part of the free Target Summer Pops series, sponsored by Target. Performances in this series are held on the grassy mall of San Jose State University. Plentiful parking is available nearby, and you can enter at 4th Street and W. San Carlos Street. You are welcome to bring a picnic lunch or supper and a beach chair. Location: San Jose State University, 1 Washington Square, San Jose 95192. 5:30pm.Ticket Information: Free. http://bit.ly/J9TQp
POP to the RESCUE | June 7 – August 24
POP to the RESCUE includes artists, Las Hermanas Iglesias and Ana Serrano. Las Hermanas Iglesias are Lisa and Janelle Iglesias, a collaborative team of sisters who were born and raised in Queens, New York. As second-generation Norwegian-Dominicans, their work often comments on bridging disparate materials and practices. Lisa Iglesias received an MFA from the University of Florida and Janelle received an MFA from Virginia Commonwealth University. Ana Serrano is a first generation Mexican American born in Los Angeles, California in 1983. Inspired by both of the cultural contexts in her life, she creates work utilizing a variety of mediums including drawing, collage, sculpture, and motion. Her work bears reference to those in low socioeconomic positions, with particular interest in the customs and beliefs, as well as the architecture, fashion, and informal economies present within this segment of society. Location: Macla Arte | Movimiento de Arte y Cultura Latino Americana, 510 S 1st St San Jose, CA 95113, http://www.maclaarte.org