by the El Reportero staff
Summer celebrations continue across the Bay Area as communities prepare for Independence Day weekend with music, festivals and family-friendly activities. From San Francisco and Santa Cruz to Berkeley and Redwood City, the coming weeks offer opportunities to enjoy live entertainment, cultural traditions and outdoor gatherings.
Fillmore Jazz Festival returns to San Francisco
One of the West Coast’s largest free jazz festivals returns to San Francisco’s historic Fillmore District for two days of live music, arts, food and community celebration. Visitors can enjoy performances on multiple stages, browse arts and crafts booths, sample local cuisine and experience one of the city’s signature summer traditions. Saturday and Sunday, July 4–5, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Fillmore Street between Jackson and Eddy streets, San Francisco. Free admission.
Santa Cruz Latin Collective performs at Midtown Block Party
Santa Cruz Latin Collective brings salsa, Latin rock and Afro-Cuban rhythms to the Midtown Block Party. Inspired by the music of Santana, Malo, Azteca and Eddie Palmieri, the band will perform an energetic outdoor concert for music lovers of all ages. Friday, July 3, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Midtown Block Party, 1111 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz. Free admission.
Kids Rock! returns to Redwood City
Families are invited to enjoy the Kids Rock! summer concert series featuring Lori & RJ with interactive music, dancing and activities designed especially for children. Saturday, July 18, 10 a.m. to noon, Courthouse Square, Redwood City. Free admission.
Omar Sosa Quarteto Americanos performs in Berkeley
Grammy-nominated pianist Omar Sosa joins his Quarteto Americanos for an evening blending Afro-Cuban jazz, Latin rhythms and contemporary improvisation. Sunday, July 19, at 7 p.m., Freight & Salvage, 2020 Addison St., Berkeley.
Viva Perú Festival returns to Newark
The third annual Viva Perú Festival celebrates Peruvian culture with live music, traditional cuisine, dance performances and family activities. International salsa star José Alberto “El Canario” is scheduled to headline the entertainment. Sunday, July 26, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Swiss Park, 5911 Mowry Ave., Newark.
For additional summer events and updated listings, visit ElReporteroSF.com under Calendar. Organizations, nonprofits, artists and event promoters are invited to submit upcoming community events for possible publication by emailing elreportero@aol.com.
