Summer events in San Rafael

San Rafael is packed with exciting events, outdoor entertainment, local flavors, and family-friendly activities all season long. From vibrant downtown gatherings and live performances to community festivals and outdoor movies, there's something happening nearly every week.

One day events

Marin County Fair: July 1-5, 2026, 11:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m., Marin Civic Center

• The Marin County Fair returns for five days of rides, exhibits, live entertainment, food, and fun for the whole family. One of the Bay Area's beloved summer traditions. Visit marinfair.org for tickets and details.

Artist Talk & Public Art Walk: July 10, 2026, 5:00-6:00 p.m., Smith Rafael Film Center

• Join the City's Public Art Program for an artist talk and guided walk celebrating San Rafael's public art. A great opportunity to meet local artists and explore the creative works that bring color and story to our community. Free and open to the public.

Dive-In Movie at the Pool: July 10, 2026, 8:00-10:00 p.m., Terra Linda Pool

• Watch a movie from the water at this fun summer night swim event at Terra Linda Pool. Details on film and admission to come - check the City's website for updates.

Summer Fun in the Park: July 17, 2026, 6:00-8:00 p.m., Terra Linda Park

• Bring the family out for a free summer evening in Terra Linda Park. Details to come - check the City's website for updates.

Dancing Under the Lights: August 7, 2026, 5:00-9:00 p.m., Downtown San Rafael, Fourth & A Streets

• Hit the dance floor under the open sky at this free outdoor dance event in the heart of downtown. A festive summer night for all ages.

San Rafael Porchfest: September 20, 2026, 12:00-5:00 p.m., Gerstle Park Neighborhood

• San Rafael's beloved neighborhood music festival returns to Gerstle Park, with local musicians performing on porches and front yards throughout the neighborhood. A free, community-celebration of live music and neighborly spirit.

Ongoing events

Art Walk Downtown: 2nd Fridays, year-round, 5:00-9:00 p.m., Downtown San Rafael, Fourth Street

• Explore galleries, creative spaces, and public art throughout downtown on the second Friday of every month. Free and open to all.

Friday Summer Market Downtown: 2nd Fridays, June 12-September 11, 2026, 5:00-9:00 p.m., Downtown San Rafael, Fourth & A Streets

• The Friday Summer Market runs on the second Friday of the month through the summer - June 12, July 10, August 11, and September 11. Shop local vendors, enjoy live music, and soak up the season downtown. Free to attend.

Sunday Marin Farmer's Market: Every Sunday, 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Marin Civic Center

• Stock up on fresh, local produce and artisan goods at the Sunday Farmer's Market at the Marin Civic Center. Running year-round every Sunday morning. Free to browse.

Movies in the Park: Fridays, August 28-October 9, 2026, 6:30 p.m., Various Parks

• Catch a free outdoor movie under the stars this fall at parks across San Rafael. The series runs four Fridays:
  • August 28 at Victor Jones Park,
  • September 11 at Sun Valley Park,
  • September 25 at Terra Linda Park
  • October 9 at Pickleweed Park

San Rafael Pacifics: Thursdays-Saturdays, June-July 2026, Albert Park

• Catch live baseball this summer as the San Rafael Pacifics take the field at Albert Park. Visit the Pacifics website for the full schedule and ticket information.

Marin Shakespeare Company: Throughout Summer 2026, Forest Meadows Amphitheater

• The Marin Shakespeare Company brings the Bard to life under the open sky at Forest Meadows Amphitheater. Visit marinshakespeare.org for the season schedule and tickets.

Pizza Month: July 2026, Downtown San Rafael

• Downtown San Rafael celebrates Pizza Month all of July. Look for deals, specials, and events at participating restaurants throughout the month.