Bay Area's First Weekend of June: Top Events You Can't Miss!

The first weekend of June in the Bay Area is filled with a variety of exciting activities. Whether you love food, music, art, or are looking to find a new home for animals, you will find something perfect for you this weekend. Let's take a look at some of the highlights you won't want to miss!

2024 Watermelon Street Fair

The Watermelon Street Fair is a grand community event held in Manteca, celebrating the region's rich agricultural traditions and watermelon harvest. This event is considered one of the largest in the area, attracting numerous participants to experience Manteca's watermelon culture and community atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Tasting fresh local watermelons and various watermelon dishes

• Family entertainment zone with games and activities for all ages

• Live music performances and watermelon eating contests

• Craft market selling local handmade goods

• Over 40 food stalls and 275 craft/commercial stalls

Location: Manteca downtown

Date: June 1 and 2, 10:00am - 5:00pm

Union Street Festival

The Union Street Festival is an annual large-scale street carnival, known as one of San Francisco's most vibrant cultural celebrations. This year marks its 46th edition, combining music, art, food, and unique experiences.

Highlights:

• Live music performances, including emerging stars like Lyrah and Chokecherry

• Over 140 booths from top West Coast artisans selling handmade art and furniture

• More than 20 creative food trucks and specialty food stalls

• Craft cocktails and seasonal beer bars

• Interactive experience areas such as whiskey and waffle tastings

• Large-scale live painting and collaborative graffiti art installations

• Family-friendly activities like face painting and robot demonstrations

Location: Union Street in Cow Hollow, San Francisco

Date: June 1, 11:00am - 7:00pm; June 2, 10:00am - 6:00pm

Oakland Carnival & Wellness Festiva

The Oakland Carnival & Wellness Festival celebrates its 10th year, dedicated to promoting community health and unity through Caribbean music, dance, food, and African culture. As Oakland's largest carnival festival, it combines rich cultural elements, attracting participants from the local area and all over Northern California.

Highlights:

• Four themed stages: Latin Zone, Carijama Zone, Axe' Dance & Drum Zone, and MoniCarnival Youth Zone

• Live performances including music, dance, and artistic presentations showcasing African diaspora carnival arts

• Various Caribbean food and craft stalls

• Health and wellness activities like yoga and dance workshops

• Free activities suitable for the whole family

Location: Mosswood Park, Oakland

Date: June 1, 12:00pm - 8:00pm

California Adopt-a-Pet Day

June 1 marks the inaugural "California Adopt-a-Pet Day," aiming to raise awareness about pet adoption and make it more convenient and affordable. On this day, over 150 California animal welfare agencies will offer free adoptions of cats, dogs, rabbits, and other animals. All adoptable animals are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped, with adoption fees covered by ASPCA, CalAnimals, and the San Francisco Humane Society. This statewide event aims to alleviate overcrowding in California animal shelters and help more animals find forever homes. Even if you cannot adopt, consider volunteering, fostering, or donating to support this meaningful cause. By adopting, you not only gain a new family member but also free up space in shelters for more animals to receive care.

Location: Check your local animal shelters

Date: June 1

No matter which event you choose, the first weekend of June will be filled with joy and warmth. Bring your family and friends to participate in these vibrant activities, enjoy the food, music, and art, and feel the community spirit and energy. Whether you're tasting fresh watermelon or adopting a cute pet, this weekend will bring you unforgettable memories. We hope everyone finds an event they love and enjoys a wonderful and fulfilling weekend!