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Coventry & Kaluza – Circus & Comedy (Free) – Atherton, August 16
Banjos and Bluegrass – Woodside, August 17
Salt Marsh Safari (Free) – San Jose, August 19, 23
Bob Baker Marionette Theater (Free) – Menlo Park, August 22
MakeArt Family Day (Free) – San Francisco, August 23
Cultura Fest (Free) – South San Francisco, August 23
Kids ‘N Fun Festival – Cupertino, August 23
Star Party at Crestview Park (Free) – San Carlos, August 23, 30
Summer Family Sleepovers at Happy Hollow – San Jose, August 23-24, 30-31
Sunday Streets – San Francisco, August 24
Origami Palooza – San Francisco, August 24
Tale of the Dragon Puppet Show (Free) – Menlo Park, August 24
End of Summer Concert with AndyZ – Portola Valley, August 28
Parents Night Out at Axe – Oakland, August 29
Dholrhythms Dance Company (Free) – San Francisco, August 1
First Friday Cosmocon – Oakland, August 1
Birds of Prey (Free) – Gilroy, August 1
Alice in Wonderland – San Carlos, August 1-3
Sunset Fridays at SF Zoo (Free) – San Francisco, August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
San Jose Giants Fireworks – San Jose, August 1, 8, 9, 22
Crazy for Camels – Walnut Creek, August 2
Super Silly Puppet Show (Free) – Pacifica, August 2
Peninsula Humane Society 75th Anniversary Celebration – Burlingame, August 2
The Prince Bride with SF Symphony – San Francisco, August 2, 3
Fun on the Farm – San Ramon, August 2, 9, 16, 23
Free First Sunday at Asian Art Museum (Free) – San Francisco, August 3
Yo Gabba Gabba Live! – San Jose, August 3
Storytime at the Foster Museum (Free) – Palo Alto, August 3, 17
Hello!Lucky Music & Story Hour – San Francisco, August 6, 13
Central Park Music Series – August 7, 14
Calvin Kai Ku Kids Show (Free) – San Francisco, August 8
Port of Oakland Harbor Tour (Free) – Oakland, August 8
Family Camp Out – San Carlos, August 8-9
Cartooning for the Whole Family – San Francisco, August 9
Open House at Park Branch Library (Free) – San Francisco, August 9
Coventry & Kaluza – Circus & Comedy (Free) – Pacifica, August 9
Coventry & Kaluza – Circus & Comedy (Free) – Brisbane, August 9
Kids Rock (Free) – Redwood City, August 9
Planes, Trains, and Cool Cars – San Carlos, August 9
Harvest Season at Gamble Garden (Free) – Palo Alto, August 9
Foam & Fun (Free) – Mountain View, August 9
Retro Roadshow (Free) – Cupertino, August 9
2nd Saturday on the Farm – Watsonville, August 9
Bay Area Aloha Festival – San Mateo, August 9, 10
Niles Canyon Train Rides – Fremont & Sunol, August 9, 10, 16, 17
Fiesta en el Parque – San Francisco, August 10
Second Sunday for Families at SFMOMA – San Francisco, August 10
Back to School Jam (Free) – San Francisco, August 10
Marine Science Sundays at The Marine Mammal Center – Sausalito, August 10, 24
Bubble Bonanza at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlos, August 10, 31
Steve Chaney and Corny Crow Puppet Show (Free) – Menlo Park, August 10
End of Summer Library Open House (Free) – Burlingame, August 14
Caterpillar Puppets (Free) – San Francisco, August 15
Foster City Summer Days – Foster City, August 15-17
Staying close to home this fourth? Check out some of the 4th of July 2025 events happening along the Peninsula:
Half Moon Bay Ol’‑Fashioned Parade & Festival
Millbrae July 4th Beats, Brews, and Vines
San Mateo – 4th in the Park
Redwood City's 4th of July Parade, Festival & Drone Show
Mountain View – Shoreline Amphitheatre Fireworks Spectacular
It’s that time of year again: school’s out, sun’s out, and the kids are ready for some outdoor fun! Calendars are filling up with play dates, birthday parties, and other events. On top of making sure our kids are having fun, we want to make sure they are staying safe. Read on for some summer safety tips from Shyam Sivasankar, MD, a Pediatric Emergency doctor.
What are common reasons for kids to visit the Emergency Department in the summertime?
Most of the time it is going to be heat- or injury-related. To prevent heat-related illnesses: don't leave your kid in the car, stay hydrated, apply and reapply sunscreen and cover up with a hat and lightweight/breathable clothing (proper sun protection is a must!), and remember to take breaks in the shade or in air-conditioning.
It’s important to always wear a helmet when on a bike or scooter, even if it is a "short" ride. We see lots of cuts, scrapes, bruises, broken bones, and head injuries. People often underestimate the strength of our skulls - although head injuries may seem intense, I would talk to your on-call pediatrician or nurse advice line before coming to the ED for head injuries.
Sometimes it will be water-related (i.e. swimming or lake-related injury). If there is any concern for drowning or near-drowning, you need to call 911. If there is some coughing or difficulty breathing that persists beyond the potential swallowed water, come to the ED for an evaluation.
What types of issues should I bring my kid into the Emergency Department for, versus Urgent Care or getting a rapid appointment with my pediatrician?
Head injuries with vomiting: Come to the ED.
Small cuts and bruises: Urgent care. Falls can usually be seen at urgent care.
Larger cuts or lacerations, swelling of joints, or obvious deformities should go to the ED. Some urgent care centers have x-ray machines, but some limb injuries will end up being sent to the ED, and sometimes that's hard to predict.
What’s the most important thing parents can do to keep kids safe at the pool?
Especially when water is involved, an adult must be constantly supervising and paying attention. As a general rule, assign one adult to be a photographer and everyone else should put their phones away or indoors to avoid distractions. Drownings happen in an instant, so it is best to be vigilant. All parents should also consider taking a first aid/CPR class.
If I’m going on a hike with my kids, what would be some good things to bring in a first aid kit?
I love this question - it's a good one. I have bandaids, hydrocortisone, triple antibiotic cream, kid-safe insect repellent, sunscreen, and water. And remember to check for ticks after your hike, especially if you were in a wooded area.
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Shyam Sivasankar is a Pediatric Emergency Medicine (PEM) physician who splits his time between Palo Alto, California and Austin, Texas. He attended medical school at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, followed by residency at Stanford University. Since completing his fellowship at Dell Children’s Medical Center, he practices as an EM physician at Stanford Healthcare and St. David’s Medical Center.
The San Mateo Parents Club has a variety of fun events throughout the summer. Check out our Events page, and RSVP to an event for some summer fun!
Reposted with minor edits from an SMPC blog post from June 27, 2023.
Burlingame Library Family Fun Nights – Burlingame, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Open Cockpit Day at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlos, July 2
Chalk Festival – Redwood City, July 3
4th of July in the Park – San Mateo, July 4
San Jose Giants Fireworks – San Jose, July 4, 5, 18
Paint-A-Plane at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlos, July 6
Storytime at the Foster Museum – Palo Alto, July 6, 20
Slim Chance Circus – Redwood City, July 8, 9, 12
Central Park Music Series – San Mateo, July 10, 17, 24, 31, August 7, 14
Parent’s Night Out at Filoli – Woodside, July 10, 17, 24, 31
Ka-Hon Kids Show (Free) – San Francisco, July 11
Port of Oakland Harbor Tour (Free) – Oakland, July 11
Salt Marsh Safari (Free) – San Jose, July 11
Woodminster Summer Musical: Hello Dolly – Oakland, July 11-20
Cartooning for the Whole Family – San Francisco, July 12
Color Me Mine Kids Night Out – Alameda, July 12
Roundtable Reading – Berkeley, July 12
Family Nature Adventures – Oakland, July 12
Retro Roadshow (Free) – Los Altos, July 12
Summer STEM Bash (Free) – Mountain View, July 12
Play Like a Miner – San Jose, July 12
2nd Saturday on the Farm – Watsonville, July 12
Family Nature Weekend at Filoli – Woodside, July 12, 13
Second Sunday for Families at SFMOMA – San Francisco, July 13
Marine Science Sundays at The Marine Mammal Center – Sausalito, July 13, 27
Puppet Art Theater – Redwood City, July 15, 16, 19
Kids Air Faire – San Carlos, July 16
Coventry & Kaluza (Free) – Tiburon, July 17
Unique Derique (Free) – San Francisco, July 18
Truckloads of Fun (Free) – Mill Valley, July 18
Fun-tastic Friday with Sean’s Music Factory (Free) – Palo Alto, July 18
Children’s Fairyland Summer Sleepover – Oakland, July 19
Kids Rock (Free) – Redwood City, July 19
Kidstock (Free) – Mountain View, July 19
Cupertino Campout – Cupertino, July 19
Family Fun Day (Free) – Scotts Valley, July 19
Model Railroad Show – Walnut Creek, July 19, 20
Sunday Streets (Free) – San Francisco, July 20
Trapeze Arts Performance – Berkeley, July 20
Rabbit Hole Theater – Woodside, July 20
Hansel & Gretel the Untold Story – Palo Alto, July 20-August 10
Afro-Peruvian Dance (Free) – Redwood City, July 22, 23, 26
Alice in Wonderland Jr – Mountain View, July 24-27
Once Upon a Mattress by Youthstage – Berkeley, July 24 – August 27
Manilatown Ensemble (Free) – San Francisco, July 25
Bhangra & Beats Night Market (Free) – San Francisco, July 25
Parents Night Out at Axe – Oakland, July 25
Frozen by CMTSJ – San Jose, July 25-August 3
Seaside Story Hour (Free) – Redwood City, July 26
Wet and Wild Day at the J (Free) – Palo Alto, July 26
Retro Roadshow (Free) – Gilroy, July 26
Cal Sailing Club Open House (Free) – Berkeley, July 27
Museum Mondays for Little Ones – Santa Rosa, July 28
James Henry Performance (Free) – Redwood City, July 29, 30 & August 2
Summer is here and it's the perfect time to create lasting memories with your little ones! Whether you're looking for local adventures, easy at-home activities or day trips, we've got you covered. Here's a curated list of 10 kid-approved activities to make this summer unforgettable.
Located in San Mateo, Aquatic Park offers a sandy beach area and calm waters ideal for young children. With picnic areas and a playground nearby, it's a one-stop spot for a day of fun.
Introduce your child to the serene beauty of the Japanese Tea Garden in San Mateo's Central Park. Stroll through the tranquil paths, feed the koi fish and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
CuriOdyssey is a hands-on science museum and zoo where kids can interact with exhibits and observe native animals. It's both educational and entertaining - a perfect combo for curious minds.
Beresford Park offers ample green space, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It's an excellent spot for a family picnic.
Mini Muffins: Banana or blueberry mini muffins for a sweet treat.
The San Mateo Public Library hosts engaging story time sessions for young children. It's a great way to foster a love for reading and interact with other families.
P.S. The Wednesday story time for 18 months to 3 year-olds will be at 10:30 AM from June 11-August 13th and held at Beresford Park.
Set up a simple water play area at home with items like:
Always supervise water play to ensure safety.
Just a short drive from San Mateo, Half Moon Bay offers beautiful beaches perfect for building sandcastles and exploring tide pools. Lemos Farm is a delightful destination featuring train rides, pony rides and a petting zoo. It's tailored for young children and offers a hands-on farm experience. Don't forget to pack snacks and plenty of water!
Central Park Music Series
On Thursday nights June - August in Central Park enjoy free live music, food vendors, raffle and more!
Family Fun Nights at Burlingame Public Library
Tuesday evenings in June and July, the Burlingame Library hosts kid-focused entertainment, including a magic show, puppet show, marionette theater, and bubbles!
Laurelwood Park provides scenic trails suitable for little feet. Explore the natural surroundings, collect leaves, and enjoy a leisurely walk amidst nature.
Encourage creativity by setting up an outdoor art station:
Summer is a wonderful opportunity to bond with your child through diverse activities. Whether you're exploring local parks, embarking on day trips, or enjoying backyard fun, these experiences contribute to your child's growth and create cherished memories.
We'd love to hear about your summer adventures! Share your favorite activities or photos with the San Mateo Parents Club community.
Bubblemania (Free) – Palo Alto, June 20
Circus Bella (Free) – San Francisco, June 20, 21
Sandcastle and Sculpture Contest – Alameda, June 21
Color Me Mine Kids Night Out – Alameda, June 21
Summer Scamper Fun Run – Stanford, June 21
Vegetable Gardening for Kids – Palo Alto, June 21
Kidstock (Free) – Mountain View, June 21
Kids Create Self Portraits – Morgan Hill, June 21
Bubblefest at Chabot Space & Science Center – Oakland, June 21, 22
Sunday Funday at Sonoma Botanical Garden – Glen Ellen, June 22
Fiesta at the Fair – Pleasanton, June 22
Bubble Bonanza at Roaring Camp – Felton, June 22
Habitot Art & STEM Day – Hercules, June 25
James and The Giant Peach by Children’s Musical Theater – San Jose, June 25-29
Eddie Madril Kids Show (Free) – San Francisco, June 27
Family Tour at the de Young Museum – San Francisco, June 28
Fairy Fun Fair – Oakland, June 28
Comicon (Free) – Livermore, June 28
Kids Rock (Free) – Redwood City June 28
Seaside Story Hour (Free) – Redwood City, June 28
Cal Sailing Club Open House (Free) – Berkeley, June 29
Storytime at the Foster Museum – Palo Alto, June 1, 15
Family Storytelling at the Asian Art Museum (Free) – San Francisco, June 1
Butterfly and Bird Festival – Fremont, June 1
Red Panda Acrobats (Free) – San Francisco, June 6
First Friday at Chabot Space & Science Center – Oakland, June 6
Port of Oakland Harbor Tour (Free) – Oakland, June 6
The Nightingale by People’s Circus Theatre – San Francisco, June 6-22
Family Art Making – San Francisco, June 7
Environmental Center Open House (Free) – Cupertino, June 7, 14, 21, 28
Second Sunday for Families at SFMOMA – San Francisco, June 8
Family Dance (Free) – Berkeley, June 8
Viva Calle (Free) – San Jose, June 8
Marine Science Sundays at The Marine Mammal Center – Sausalito, June 8, 22
Blippi: Join the Band – Santa Rosa, June 11
Something Rotten – Berkeley, June 12-30
RhythmALLogy (Free) – San Francisco, June 13
Blankets and Blockbusters: The Princess and the Frog (Free) – San Francisco, June 13
San Jose Giants Fireworks – San Jose, June 13, 14, 27
Cartooning for the Whole Family – San Francisco, June 14
Biggest Little Airshow – San Carlos, June 14
Second Saturday at Gamble Garden – Palo Alto, June 14
Proud of My Family – San Jose, June 14
Dia de Portugal Festival – San Jose, June 14
Juneteenth Celebration – Santa Cruz, June 14
2nd Saturday on the Farm – Watsonville, June 14
Father’s Day Overnight on the USS Hornet – Alameda, June 14-15
Open Cockpit Day – Oakland, June 15
Sunday Streets – San Francisco, June 15
Fathers’ Day Bike About the Zoo – San Francisco, June 15
Kids Carnival at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlos, June 15
Fathers’ Day BBQ at Roaring Camp – Felton, June 15
Dragons Love Tacos – Palo Alto, June 18-July 6
Cupertino Campout – Cupertino, June 19
Juneteenth Community Celebration – San Jose, June 19
African-American Dance (Free) – San Jose, June 19
In May, the Peninsula comes alive with vibrant farmers markets offering a bounty of fresh, locally grown produce. This is an especially exciting month for food enthusiasts, as it marks the start of peak season for many fruits and vegetables in the Bay Area. Here's a guide to the farmers markets in and around San Mateo, along with a look at what's in season this month.
Farmers Markets in San Mateo
25th Ave. Farmers' Market
Farmers Markets Nearby
Belmont Farmers Market
What's in Season in May?
May is a delightful month for seasonal produce in the Bay Area, as summer tree fruits and other produce start to come into season. Here's what you can expect to find at your local farmers market:
Tips for Shopping at Farmers Markets
To make the most of your visit to the farmers market:
Whether you're a seasoned market-goer or a first-time visitor, Bay Area farmers markets offer a wonderful opportunity to enjoy fresh, local produce and connect with the community. Happy shopping and eating!
Doktor Kaboom! – Santa Rosa, May 16
Oakland Greek Festival – Oakland, May 16-18
Alice in Wonderland by Diablo Ballet – Walnut Creek, May 16, 17
SF Jazz Family Matinees – San Francisco, May 17
Family Tour at the de Young Museum – San Francisco, May 17
SkyJam Festival – Richmond, May 17
Wildlife Hike (Free) – El Sobrante, May 17
Kitten Nursery Shower – Burlingame, May 17
Open Cockpit Day at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlo, May 17
South Bay AANHPI Festival – San Jose, May 17
Super Scaly Critters – Los Gatos, May 17
Pride Picnic – Santa Cruz, May 17
Boardwalk Drone Show – Santa Cruz, May 17
Model Railroad Show – Walnut Creek, May 17, 18
Creative Patchwork – Morgan Hill, May 17, 24
The Aristocats Kids – Pleasanton, May 17-25
Wildflower Hike – Clayton, May 18
Family Dance (Free) – Berkeley, May 18
Cal Sailing Club Open House – Berkeley, May 18
Marin Greek Festival – Novato, May 23-25
The Sound of Music by Berkeley Rep – Berkeley, May 23 - June 29
Meet the Reptiles, Amphibians and More! – Los Altos Hills, May 24
Carnavale – San Francisco, May 24, 25
Oklahoma Kids – Danville, May 24, 25
The Little Mermaid – Palo Alto, May 24, 25
San Ramon Art & Wind Festival – San Ramon, May 25, 26
Memorial Day Bike Parade and Picnic – Tiburon, May 27
Parents Night Out at Axe – Oakland, May 30
San Jose Greek Festival – San Jose, May 30 - June 1
Matilda Jr – Danville, May 30 - June 8
Bay Area Book Festival (Free) – Berkeley, May 31
Seaside Story Hour (Free) – Redwood City, May 31
Dinosaur Train Days – Santa Rosa, May 31 & June 1
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