Photography in Mexico| Now – July 8
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is presenting a complex synthesis of art and politics; this exhibition explores Mexico’s distinctively rich and diverse photography tradition from the 1920s to the present. It begins in the period following the Mexican Revolution, and includes photographs made for the illustrated press at midcentury and documentary investigations from the 1970s and 1980s. The exhibition concludes with contemporary examinations of social, environmental, and economic concerns both within Mexico and along its northern border. For more information: http://www.latinbayarea.com/event/869/photography-in-mexico-sfmoma
Mexicanisimo through Artists’ Eyes |April 1- September 23
The San Jose Museum of Art is featuring an exhibit highlighting Mexican and Mexican-American artists as they contrast the traditional art with the cutting-edge. These artists draw inspiration from Mexico’s deep well of visual culture, referencing folk art, popular culture, and vernacular craft traditions as well as contemporary idioms. Visit http://www.sjmusart.org/mexicanisimo-through-artists-eyes
La Raza Comica: Art Museum | Now – September 30
A major art exhibition focusing on Latinos in comics: La Raza Comica: A Celebration of the Latino American Experience in the Comic Arts.This exhibition features original works by artists including legendary underground cartoonist Spain Rodriguez, Lalo Alcaraz, Isis Rodriguez, Rafael Navarro, Richard Dominguez, Grasiela Rodriguez, Javier Hernandez, Jaime Crespo, Jose Cabrera and Mario Hernandez. The Latino Comics Expo was co-founded by Ricardo Padilla and Javier Hernandez to provide a showcase for Latino creators and others to share their work with the public. Cost: FREE.CartoonArt Museum|655 Mission St. San Francisco. http://cartoonart.org/2012/04/la-raza-comica-a-celebration-of-the-latino-american-experience-in-the-comic-arts/
La Quebradora: Contemporary Art | Now – August 4
Curator Amy Pederson has assembled an exhibition that uses lucha libre, or Mexican professional wrestling, as a platform for mappingMexico’s cultural history and its social relations that echo beyond the ring. Video, sculpture, painting, and performance address the exhibit’s central themes of redemption, salvation, identity and the spectacle. MCCLA presents an exhibition of Contemporary Art fromMexico. http://www.missionculturalcenter.org/MCCLA_New/gallery.html
Caras/Cuentos: Art Exhibit | Now – January 6
The new exhibit at Fort Mason’s Mexican Museum features multimedia pieces, ranging from photography to sculpture, and showcases the mystique of portraiture through nearly 30 pieces representing a wide range of Latino cultural expression, from pre-Hispanic to Chicano art. “Caras/Cuentos,” or “Masks/Faces,” aims to provoke discussion of Latino identity in a culturally fragmented society. Location: The Mexican Museum Fort Mason Center, Building D, at Marina Boulevard and Buchanan Street, S.F. open Wednesday through Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call (415) 202-9700.
David Correa and Cascada (Latin-World Fusion) – Vasona Vibrations | June 9
David Correa and Cascada has been entertaining crowds since 1999 with their passionate and distinctive blend of instrumental Latin guitar world fusion. The group tours regularly throughout the West Coast, Northwest, and Southwest regions. http://www.southbayfolks.org/vasona/
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Pop Art – Docent Lecture | June 26
Pop Art explores a rebellion by irreverent young artists against the prevailing art of the time. Pop art looks at the world of everyday life, media and culture. The presentation focuses on interpretations of this style by such artists as Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Claes Oldenburg, Mel Ramos, Rosalyn Drexler, Richard Pettibone and Marisol, as well as more contemporary artists. Location:San Francisco Museum of Modern Art(SF MOMA) Ticket Information: $3 Members $5 Non-Members http://www.penvol.org/littlehouse/
The B-52s with Squeeze | June 26
It is well known that the B-52s are one of the world’s greatest party bands. Thirty years and over twenty million albums into their career, there can be no doubt as to why The B-52s remain among the most beloved rock stars ever. Any mystery concerning the longevity and ongoing appeal of the band is immediately solved when exposed to a unique B-52s concert experience. From the timeless gems of Rock Lobster, Planet Claire, and Private Idaho to the more recent classics Channel Z, Love Shack, and Roam, the B-52s’ unforgettable dance-rock tunes start a party every time their music begins. Location: The Mountain Winery,14831 Pierce Road,Saratoga95070Ticket Information: $45-$125 $20 Parking; $15 for carpoolers (3+/car) http://concerts.mountainwinery.com/
Summer Wine Stroll | June 28
Stroll down Main Street, visit your favorite stores, and sample a variety of Bay Area wines! Ticket price includes wine tastings, a commemorative wine glass, and event map. This event will be held rain or shine. Location:Pleasanton- Downtown ,Main Street &W Angela Street,Pleasanton945666-9 pm Ticket Information: $25 http://www.pleasantondowntown.net/eventdetails.php?id=1082
George Lopez | June 28
George Lopez is a multi-talented entertainer whose career encompasses television, film, standup comedy, and late night television. For two seasons, Lopez hosted Lopez Tonight, a late night television talk show on TBS, which represented Lopez’s return to series television after co-creating, writing, producing, and starring in Warner Brothers Television’s groundbreaking hit sitcom George Lopez–which ran for six seasons on ABC. Location: Tommy T’s Comedy Steakhouse, 5104 Hopyard Road, Pleasanton94566Ticket Information: $50-$60 Two-item minimum http://www.tommyts.com/pleasanton/index.html
Run for Your Wife | June 29 – July 21
One man, plus two wives, two crazy neighbors, two suspicious detectives, and one reporter add up to a show with non stop laughter! Directed by Kae-Jenny Spencer, Run for Your Wife is sure to delight. Limelight Actors Theater continues its signature “Bring Your Own Dinner” Theater, where you can bring dinner and wine and can enjoy the company of your friends and family before the show. 06/29 Friday – 07/21 Saturday ; Fri, Sat: 8pm ; Sun: 2pm* *No Show 7/1 Location: Gilroy Center for the Arts,7341 Monterey StreetGilroy95020Ticket Information: $18 http://www.limelightactorstheater.com/
Gold Medal Music – 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular with San Francisco Symphony | July 4
Sprint over to Shoreline Amphitheatre for the annual concert and fireworks spectacular as the San Francisco Symphony celebrates the sporting life. Enjoy gold medal music and sonic gymnastics, all leading up to a thrilling fireworks show accompanied by the Orchestra. It’s a win-win for you and your family! Location: Shoreline Amphitheatre,1 Amphitheatre ParkwayMountain View94043-1352 Ticket Information: $24-$3 http://www.livenation.com/Shoreline-Amphitheatre-tickets-Mountain-View/venue/229414
Palo Alto Art Center at the 31st Annual Summer Festival and Chili Cook-Off | July 4
Visit Mitchell Park for one ofPalo Alto’s most beloved traditions! ThePalo AltoArtCenterwill be cheering on the chili teams, while providing Independence Day inspired art activities for the whole family. Location: Mitchell Park 600 E Meadow DrivePalo Alto94306Ticket Information: Free. http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/depts/csd/activities_and_recreation/attractions/art_center/default.asp
4th of July Parade – Freedom Fest / Morgan Hill | Morgan Hill
Morgan Hill’s historic July 4th parade started in 1876 as our nation celebrated its first centennial, has has run uninterrupted ever since. 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. 9 am Entertainment begins 10 am Parade begins Location: Morgan Hill Ticket Information: Free
Rose, White and Blue Parade | July 4
Enjoy a family holiday filled with History, Patriotism and Roses! The Rose, White and Blue Parade and Festival held annually on 4th of July in San Jose, California is a revival of the historic Rose Carnival of 1896, later known as The Fiesta de Las Rosas Parade in the 1920s. Enjoy an old fashioned family-style parade as it winds through the Rose Garden neighborhood ending on the grand avenue of the The Alameda. This homespun parade features live bands, dance groups, home-made floats, kids on bikes, antique cars, and more. Following the parade, attendees will enjoy the picnic on The Alameda featuring food and drink from local restaurants under the shade of our trees on The Alameda together with live music. 10:00 am Location: San Jose Ticket Information: Free http://www.rosewhiteblueparade.com/
Wonders and Traditions of Peru 2012 | July 7
Kanchis brings to you this rich cultural melding–the result of the confluence of Native Indian, African, and Spanish heritages. Through the dance, music, outfits, and language, you can experience the ancient, colorful, and warm expression of Peruvian people and traditions. 4:00 pm. Location:Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts,500 Castro StreetMountain View 94041 Ticket Information: $25-$30 http://www.mountainview.gov/mvcpa/jul12.html
San Jose Blues Week | July 10-15
The Fountain Blues Festival is the signature event of San Jose Blues Week. Blues events will be served up at 15 venues throughout the South Bay, including nine downtown, said Ramon Johnson, who founded the weeklong tribute in 2005 and held it for six consecutive years. Schedule of events: Tuesday, July 10 – Opening night party, Johnny V’s, 31 E. Santa Clara St., 9 p.m. Free; Wednesday, July 11 – The legendary Ron Thompson, Poor House Bistro, 91 S. Autumn St., 7 p.m. Free; Thursday, July 12 – “Chef Ramon’s Talking Blues” discussion and conversation, plus All-Star Jam (J.C. Smith, Gary “the Godfather of San Jose Blues” Smith, Lara Price, Bob Gonzalez of Syndicate of Sound, Mike Osborn and others), Poor House Bistro, 6-9 p.m. Free; Friday, July 13 – Kaye Bohler, San Pedro Square Market, 7 p.m. Free; Saturday, July 14 – 32nd Fountain Blues Festival presented by Metro Newspapers, featuring Elvin Bishop, Canned Heat, Ruthie Foster, Lurrie Bell and John Primer. St. James Park, First and St. Johnstreets, noon-8 p.m., $10 in advance, $12 at the gate, VIP tickets $50. JC Smith Band (Fountian Blues Festival post party), Poor House Bistro, 91 S. Autumn St., 6pm-10 p.m. Free; Fountain Blues Festival After-Party, with All-Star jam, Lobby Lounge of the Fairmont San Jose, 170 S. Market St., 9 p.m. Free; Sunday, July 15 – Closing events. Location: Various venues in Downtown San Jose. http://www.sjdowntown.com/fountainbluesfestival.html
San Jose Obon Festival | July 14 & 15
Held in one of the three remaining Japantowns in theUnited States, this is San Jose Japantown’s largest festival, offering a rich cultural experience complete with dance, games, music, and food. The San Jose Obon Festival draws approximately 1,200 dancers of all ages every year. Dancers wear ceremonial kimonos or hapi coats and dance to the beat of live music under a canopy of colorful lanterns. Sat: 11:30am-10pm Sun: 11:30am-8pm Location: Japantown -San Jose,N 5th Street &J ackson Street, San Jose 95112 Ticket Information: Free http://www.japantownsanjose.org/events.html
Demi Lovato – Pop | July 17
Demi Lovato returns to the Event Center on her summer tour with Hot Chelle Rae. Actress and vocalist Demi Lovato began making a name for herself after starring alongside the Jonas Brothers in the 2008 Disney Channel movie Camp Rock. Demi started out as a child actress, starring as a cast regular on Barney and Friends before finding her way onto the Disney Channel with a brief role in As the Bell Rings. Lovato’s debut album, Don’t Forget featuring songs co-written by the Jonas Brothers, was released by Hollywood Records several months after Camp Rock’s premiere. It debuted at number two, confirming Lovato’s status as a star in her own right, and was followed in 2009 by the chart-topping Here We Go Again. 7:00 Location: San Jose State Event Center Arena,290 S 7th Street,San Jose95192-0201Ticket Information: $35-$79.50 http://www.union.sjsu.edu/ec/upcoming/
Pete Escovedo’s Latin Jazz Sextet – Dinner Music Show | July 20
From the 70’s until now, Pete Escovedo has performed and toured with many great and respected artists, such as Herbie Hancock, Mongo Santamaria, Bobby McFerrin, Cal Tjader, Woody Herman, Stephen Stills, Billy Cobham, Anita Baker, George Duke, Boz Scaggs, Andy Narell, Al Jarreau, Ray Obiedo, Dionne Warwick, Marlena Shaw, Barry White, Angela Bofill, Arturo Sandoval, Poncho Sanchez, Chick Corea, Dave Valentine, Najee, Gerald Albright, Prince, and none other than the legendary Tito Puente. Show: 8:30pm Dinner seating begins: 7pm Location: Angelica’s Bistro,863 Main Street,Redwood City94063. Ticket Information: $28-$32 Plus dinner or two item minimum Table reservations required http://www.angelicasbistro.com/entertainment.htm
Girls Night Out hosted by Ay Dios Mio Shop | July 21
Girls night out event includes live painting by artist Cathy Ashworth, unique art and jewelry trunk show, and raffle prizes. You will also have the opportunity to learn more about Pachuca Cosmetics, Glam Studio, Casa Q, and Modern Latina. So gather all your girlfriends and stop by Ay Dios Mio in San Pedro Market Square for a fun evening out. Location: San Pedro Square Market,100 N Almaden Ave, San Jose, CA 95110. 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. www.aydiosmioshop.eventbrite.com
Alice in Wonderland – Los Gatos Shakespeare Festival | July 22- August 9
This is an original stage adaptation by Bruce W. De Les Dernier. CanAlicekeep her head through jousting knights, dueling twins, a monster in the forest and a mad, mad tea party? Join us for this fast-paced romp through Wonderland that will excite young and old alike–directed by Bruce W. De Les Dernier. This production is part of the 11th Annual Los Gatos Shakespeare Festival, along with Romeo and Juliet and The Two Gentlemen of Verona. Performances take place in an all-outdoor venue in the beautiful setting ofOakMeadowParklocated at the corner ofBlossom Hill RoadandUniversity Avenue. Amphitheater-style seating is provided, with wheelchair seating available. Location: Oak Meadow Park 200 Blossom Hill Road Los Gatos95032 Ticket Information: $22 adults $15 youths (under 18) and seniors (60 and over). Sun 7/22: 8pm; Fri 7/27: 8pm; Sat 8/4: 8p; Thurs 8/9: 8pm http://www.lgshakes.org/
The 34th Annual Gilroy Garlic Festival | July 27-29
Ten tons of beef… four tons of pasta… four tons of calamari… and two tons of fresh Christopher Ranch garlic adds up to $8.2 million raised for local charity. Welcome to the 34th 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 *$2.00 Discount tickets available online or at all Raley’s, Bel Air and Nob Hill Foods locations. Fri-Sun: 10am-7pm (Gates close at 6pm) http://gilroygarlicfestival.com/
Sheryl Crow Concert | July 21 & 22
Sheryl’s debut album, Tuesday Night Music Club, was released in the fall of 1993. In early 1994, it began climbing the charts, fueled by the success of the single Leaving Las Vegas. Perhaps caught up in the mania that surrounded the infectious pop-single All I Wanna Do, the work on Tuesday Night Music Club earned Sheryl a slew of awards. At the 37th Annual Grammy Awards in 1995, All I Wanna Do won Record of the Year, the first time the award had been scooped up by a newcomer in years. Sheryl also won Best Female Pop Vocal for the song, as well as Best New Artist. That album has sold over 6 million copies, and that was just the beginning for Sheryl’s amazing career. Location: The Mountain Winery,14831 Pierce Road,Saratoga95070Ticket Information: $56-$151 $20 Parking; $15 for carpoolers (3+/car) http://concerts.mountainwinery.com/
SambaDa (Afro-Brazilian) – Music in the Park, Los Gatos | July 29
While SambaDa emerged from a Brazilian dance group, founder Papiba Godinho has not let his status of capoeira master dominate the band’s sound. Since the beginning, when some of his students started jamming on their evenings off, the motley members have always brought in their own styles and ideas.This concert is held on the Los Gatos Civic Center Lawn. The best place to park is behind Los Gatos High School, just down the street from the Civic Center.5pm-7pm Location:Los Gatos Civic Center,110 E Main Street, Los Gatos95030 Ticket Information: Free. http://www.lgmip.com/miperformers.asp