by the El Reportero staff
Summer celebrations continue across Northern California with music, dance, food and cultural festivals offering residents a variety of ways to enjoy the season. From San Francisco and Berkeley to Hayward, Newark, Vallejo and Santa Cruz, upcoming events highlight the diversity and creativity of Bay Area communities.
Fête de la Musique celebrates music and French culture
Amélie Wine Bar in San Francisco will celebrate Fête de la Musique with an evening of live music, French wine and summer festivities. Acoustic Latin folk musician Raul will perform from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by singer Charlotte Mae from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Admission is free, although reservations are recommended. Sunday, June 21, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Amélie Wine Bar, 1754 Polk St., San Francisco.
Cultiva + Cumbia presents Cumbia + Banda Night
Cultiva + Cumbia will conclude its June dance series with a special Cumbia + Banda night in Berkeley. The event brings together dancers and music fans for an evening of community, music and social dancing. Beginner lessons start at 8 p.m., followed by dancing at 9 p.m. Food and drink specials will be available throughout the evening. Friday, June 26, North Beach Pizza, 2420 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. Dance class at 8 p.m.; social dance at 9 p.m. Ages 21 and over.
Momotombo SF headlines Hayward Latin Jazz Festival
Momotombo SF, featuring musicians connected to legendary Bay Area groups Santana and Malo, will perform at the Hayward Latin Jazz Festival. The free family-friendly festival features live music, food vendors and community activities throughout downtown Hayward. Saturday, June 27, 2 p.m., Main Street and B Street Stage, Downtown Hayward.
Día de San Juan Salsa Festival returns to Newark
The Western Region Puerto Rican Council will present the 46th Annual Día de San Juan Salsa Festival. The event features live salsa music, dancing, food vendors and family activities celebrating Puerto Rican culture and traditions. Saturday, June 27, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Swiss Park, 5911 Mowry Ave., Newark.
Caribbean Currents Festival celebrates island cultures
The Caribbean Basin Institute for Education and Culture will host the Caribbean Currents Festival celebrating Caribbean-American Heritage Month. The event includes music, cultural performances, crafts, food vendors and children’s activities representing Caribbean nations and traditions. Sunday, June 28, noon to 6 p.m., Robert Matsui Waterfront Park, 450 Jibboom St., Sacramento.
Max Cortés y Su Orquesta perform in Vallejo
Bay Area music fans can enjoy an afternoon of salsa, cumbia and merengue when Max Cortés y Su Orquesta perform at Vino Godfather Winery. The outdoor event offers dancing, live music and a festive atmosphere for visitors of all ages. Sunday, June 28, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Vino Godfather Winery, 1005 Walnut Ave., Vallejo.
Santa Cruz Latin Collective performs at Midtown Block Party
Santa Cruz Latin Collective will bring salsa, Latin rock, Afro-Cuban rhythms and dance grooves to the Midtown Block Party. Inspired by the sounds of Santana, Malo, Azteca, Willie Colón and Eddie Palmieri, the band combines powerful horns, percussion and guitar-driven arrangements in a family-friendly outdoor celebration. Friday, July 3, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Midtown Block Party, 1111 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz. Free admission.
