by the El Reportero staff
September opens with music, family activities and cultural celebrations across the Bay Area. From salsa on San Francisco’s waterfront to young performers supporting childhood cancer research and a traditional Oktoberfest on the Peninsula, residents have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the region’s diverse communities.
Orquesta Borinquen at The Ramp
Salsa dura fills the San Francisco waterfront
Orquesta Borinquen brings Puerto Rican-flavored salsa dura to The Ramp for an afternoon and evening of live music and dancing. DJ Antonio and DJ EMC will also keep the music going at the popular waterfront gathering place.
Saturday, Sept. 5, 4–10 p.m., The Ramp, 855 Terry A. Francois Blvd., San Francisco. Cover: $20. Food and drinks available.
Bye Bye Kids Cancer Talent Show
Young performers unite for childhood cancer research
Children from throughout the Bay Area take the stage for the 12th Annual Bye Bye Kids Cancer Talent Show. The free family event raises funds for childhood cancer research at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford. Created in 2015 by a five-year-old child, the program is now celebrating its 12th year.
Saturday, Sept. 12, 1–3 p.m., Valencia Park at Santana Row, San José. Free admission. Information: ByeByeKidsCancer.org.
Gran Festival Salvadoreño
Salvadoran traditions celebrated in San José
Caravana de la Bahía, presented by Edgar Ortiz, hosts an afternoon and evening of Salvadoran music, food and family entertainment. Orquesta San Vicente headlines, joined by Roberto Salamanca and Cocolito. A children’s area and mechanical bull are also planned.
Sunday, Sept. 13, 1–8 p.m., MetaSpace, 2323 McKee Road, San José. Children under 12 free.
Oktoberfest Downtown Redwood City
German traditions return to the Peninsula
Redwood City’s annual Oktoberfest transforms Courthouse Square with German music, dancing, food and traditional festivities. Performers during the multi-day celebration include The Internationals, Golden Gate Bavarian Club, Deutscher Musikverein, Alpine Sound Band and Nature Friends Schuhplattler.
Sept. 18–27, Courthouse Square, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City. No event Sept. 21. Ticket prices vary by date and time.
El Flamenco de Jerez
Andalusian artists bring flamenco to Northern California
Dancers Macarena de Jerez and Carmen Herrera join vocalist José Mijita, guitarist Ismael Heredia and percussionist Manuel Vinaza for a celebration of the flamenco traditions of Jerez and Andalusia.
Friday, Sept. 25, 7 p.m., Sacramento; Saturday, Sept. 26, 7 p.m., Mountain View.
