Hi parents,
August always sneaks up on me. One minute we’re talking about summer plans, and the next the backpacks are coming out, and school is only a couple of weeks away.
Maybe that’s why this weekend feels worth slowing down for.
There are concerts where the kids can dance barefoot on the grass, an overnight campout without leaving town, Victorian crafts in a historic courthouse, and enough farmers markets to keep everyone stocked with late-summer peaches.
Whether you’re squeezing in one last summer adventure or simply looking for an easy outing together, I hope this guide makes planning your weekend a little simpler.
🌿 Weekend Pick
San Carlos Family Campout
Friday 4:00 pm – Saturday 10:00 am | 📍 Burton Park, San Carlos
If your kids have been asking to go camping but you’re not quite ready for the full wilderness experience, this is such a fun middle ground. Pitch a tent without leaving town, enjoy dinner, s’mores, lawn games, an outdoor movie, and wake up to breakfast together the next morning.
Families | Registration required | Register
Happening All Weekend
Robotics Fair 2026
Saturday & Sunday • 9:30 am–5:00 pm | 📍 San Mateo County Event Center, San Mateo
Curious kids will have plenty to explore here, from robot demonstrations and hands-on workshops to an international youth robotics competition. Whether your child already loves STEM or simply enjoys watching things come to life, there's something to discover around every corner.
All ages | Free general admission | Register
Los Altos Rotary Fine Art in the Park
Saturday & Sunday • 10:00 am–5:30 pm | 📍 Lincoln Park, Los Altos
More than 150 artists fill Lincoln Park with paintings, sculpture, jewelry, and handmade goods, while kids enjoy face painting, balloon artists, live performances, and plenty of room to explore beneath the redwoods.
All ages | Free | Learn more
Friday
San Mateo County History Museum – Free First Friday
10:00 am–4:00 pm | 📍 Redwood City
If you’re looking for an indoor outing before the evening festivities begin, the historic courthouse opens its doors free of charge. It’s easy to pair with lunch or a stroll through downtown Redwood City.
All ages | Free | Learn more
Los Altos First Friday
5:00–8:00 pm | 📍 Downtown Los Altos
Downtown transforms into one big neighborhood music festival, with live bands spread across streets, plazas, and storefronts. Wander at your own pace, grab dinner, and enjoy a relaxed summer evening.
Families | Free | Learn more
CuriOdyssey First Friday Nights
5:00–8:00 pm | 📍 CuriOdyssey, San Mateo
Science demonstrations, live animal presentations, and after-hours museum fun make this a great Friday evening option, especially if you don’t usually make it during the day.
All ages | Museum admission | Get details
Summer Concert Series: Curley Taylor & Zydeco Trouble
6:00 pm | 📍 Karl E. Clark Park, Menlo Park
Something a little different from the usual cover bands. Zydeco music has an infectious rhythm that’s hard not to dance to, making this a fun evening for kids and grown-ups alike.
All ages | Free | Learn more
Magical Bridge Summer Concert Series
6:00–7:30 pm | 📍 Magical Bridge Playground, Palo Alto
Classic favorites and Disney songs in one of the Peninsula’s most inclusive playgrounds. Kids can play before and after the concert while parents settle in for a relaxed evening.
All ages | Free | Learn more
Sunset Movie: The Wild Robot
Around 7:40 pm (sunset) | 📍 Serra Park, Sunnyvale
Bring a blanket, pack a few snacks, and don’t be surprised if bedtime slides a little later than usual. Summer movie nights are always worth it.
Families | Free | Get details
Saturday
College of San Mateo Farmers Market
9:00 am–1:00 pm | 📍 College of San Mateo
One of the Peninsula’s biggest farmers markets, filled with seasonal produce, flowers, baked goods, and breakfast options. An easy Saturday morning tradition.
All ages | Free | Learn more
Victorian Days at the Old Courthouse
10:00 am–2:00 pm | 📍 San Mateo County History Museum, Redwood City
Step back in time with Victorian crafts, scavenger hunts, and a vintage fashion show. Kids can make hats and fans before exploring one of the Peninsula’s most beautiful historic buildings.
All ages | Free | Learn more
Mega Ran at Children’s Discovery Museum
11:00 am–12:00 pm | 📍 Children’s Discovery Museum, San Jose
A live family concert included with museum admission makes this a fun excuse to spend the day exploring one of the Bay Area’s best children’s museums.
All ages | Museum admission | Learn more
Sunday
Mountain View Farmers Market
9:00 am–1:00 pm | 📍 Caltrain Station, Mountain View
A dependable Sunday favorite with dozens of local farms, fresh flowers, and plenty of nearby breakfast spots if you’d like to linger.
All ages | Free | Learn more
Stern Grove Festival: Patti LaBelle
Kid Zone 12:30–3:00 pm | 📍 Stern Grove, San Francisco
If you already have tickets, this is one of the summer’s standout concerts. The Kid Zone includes face painting, instrument exploration, games, and activities before the performance begins. Please note that the general admission lottery has already closed.
All ages | Free (reservation required) | Get details
🌼 Little Joy
Pick one fruit at the farmers market this weekend that your kids have never tried before.
Maybe it’s a donut peach, a pluot, or a fresh fig.
Let everyone vote on whether it deserves a spot on next week’s grocery list.
Coming Up Later This Month
Foster City Summer Days • August 14–16
Three days of carnival rides, live music, food, and one of the Peninsula’s favorite summer festivals.
Burlingame on the Avenue • August 15–16
Downtown Burlingame’s biggest street festival returns with local vendors, music, shopping, and great food.
KidStock • Saturday, August 15
Mountain View’s family festival returns with performances, hands-on activities, and plenty designed for younger kids.
Summer has a way of making even the simplest plans feel memorable. Whether it's a concert on the lawn, a morning at the farmers market, or just a little extra time together outside, I hope you find something your family enjoys this weekend.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Akriti