Tri-Valley Summer Guide
Summer in the Tri-Valley, California – where the sun shines bright, and the adventures are endless! Whether you're a local looking for new thrills or a visitor seeking the ultimate summer experience, the Tri-Valley has something for everyone. From vibrant festivals to serene outdoor escapes, let's dive into the activities and happenings in the Tri-Valley this summer.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking Trails
Lace-up your boots and explore the beautiful hiking trails in Pleasanton. Two notable locations include Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park or Sunol Regional Wilderness Preserve. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned hiker, these breathtaking views are worth the trek.
Heading over to Livermore, Del Valle Regional Park offers hikers picturesque trails alongside its tranquil lake, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and ample opportunities for birdwatching. Sycamore Grove Park boasts winding paths shaded by majestic trees, perfect for leisurely strolls or invigorating hikes. Nature enthusiasts can also discover the rugged beauty of Brushy Peak Regional Preserve, where winding trails lead through rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and vibrant wildflower fields. Whether seeking a peaceful nature retreat or an exhilarating outdoor challenge, Livermore's diverse hiking trails offer something for every skill level and scenic preference, inviting visitors to reconnect with the natural world and enjoy the beauty of the East Bay landscape.
Go Golfing!
Tee off at one of Pleasanton's pristine golf courses, such as the Callippe Preserve Golf Course or the Pleasanton Golf Center. Callippe Preserve Golf Course boasts an 18-hole championship course set against rolling hills and native grasses, providing a memorable golfing experience. For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, the Pleasanton Golf Center offers a nine-hole course and a driving range, perfect for a casual round or practicing your swing.
Golf enthusiasts can also flock to Livermore to indulge in the pristine fairways and scenic vistas offered by its renowned golf courses. Poppy Ridge Golf Course welcomes players to experience three distinct 9-hole courses, each set against the backdrop of Livermore's rolling hills and vineyards. With its challenging layout and meticulously manicured greens, Poppy Ridge promises an unforgettable golfing experience for players of all skill levels. Meanwhile, Wente Golf Course offers an exceptional blend of natural beauty and championship-level play. Nestled amidst Livermore Valley's vineyards, this 18-hole course presents golfers with breathtaking views and strategic challenges, ensuring a memorable round on its picturesque fairways.
Spend the Day at the Park
Embrace the great outdoors and spend a blissful day at one of Pleasanton's scenic parks. Pleasanton is renowned for its abundance of parks, offering a variety of recreational activities for all ages. Among the favorites is the iconic Pleasanton Sports and Recreation Park, boasting vast green spaces, playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. It's the perfect spot for a day of family fun or a leisurely afternoon picnic. The Alviso Adobe Community Park offers a glimpse into the city's history with its beautifully restored adobe and expansive grounds for picnics and strolls. Meanwhile, the Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area beckons with its tranquil lake, perfect for fishing, boating, or simply soaking up the sun on the sandy beach. Click here for a complete list of Pleasanton’s parks.
Cultural Delights
Concerts in the Park
Kick back and groove to live music under the warm summer sky at the Concerts in the Park series. With various genres from rock to jazz, there's a rhythm for every taste.
This year, Concerts in the Park will be held at Delucchi and Lions Wayside parks during the summer months, and are scheduled to take place every Friday evening from 7:00 to 8:30 PM between June and August. The complete lineup of concert acts is announced on Downtown Pleasanton’s website, and includes Audio Illusion, Diablo Fugitives, Evan Thomas Band, East Bay Grooveline, and more!
Alameda County Fair
Dive into the excitement of the annual Alameda County Fair, a beloved summer tradition in Pleasanton. With thrilling rides, live entertainment, carnival games, and mouthwatering fair food, it's a celebration not to be missed. From petting zoos to craft exhibits, there's something for everyone at this iconic event. Don't forget to catch the nightly fireworks extravaganza lighting up the sky with dazzling colors, adding an extra spark to your summer nights.
Within the fairgrounds, discover the Brew Fest and Wine Fest, where you can sample an array of craft beers and fine wines from local breweries and wineries. This year’s fair will take place on June 14th and run through July 7th.
Summer Wine Stroll
This year’s Summer Wine Stoll in Downtown Pleasanton is on May 4th. Sip, shop and stroll during Pleasanton’s annual Summer Wine Stroll where downtown locations become tasting rooms. Listen to live music and taste local wines and small bites with each guest receiving a commemorative wine glass and event map.
First Weekends on Main
Mark your calendars for an epic lineup during the 1st Weekends on Main! June 1-2 kicks off with the heart-pounding BMX Show & Hot Rod Row, followed by a patriotic salute on July 6-7 with Salute to Service & Chili Cook-Off, and gear up for luxury and speed on Aug. 3-4 with the Porsche Show. But wait, there's more! Downtown Pleasanton is hinting at some electrifying surprises yet to be unveiled, adding an extra layer of anticipation to this already thrilling series!
Livermore Downtown Street Fest
Scheduled for May 18th and 19th, 2024, this iconic event stands as one of the Tri-Valley's most cherished celebrations, seamlessly blending wine, craft brews, arts, crafts, shopping, dining, entertainment, and hometown charm.
Drawing thousands of locals and tourists annually, the festival transforms Livermore's downtown into a bustling hub of activity, with an array of unique vendor booths and specialty boutiques awaiting exploration. This year promises even more excitement with two live entertainment areas and beer and wine tasting lounges showcasing the finest offerings from local breweries and wineries.
Festival-goers can revel in the festivities from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday and 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Sunday, with wine and beer pouring hours from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm and 11:00 am to 4:00 pm respectively. It's a weekend not to be missed, where the spirit of Livermore shines brightly through its vibrant community and rich cultural offerings.
The Best of SF Comedy Competition
Get ready for an uproarious evening of laughter at the Bankhead Theater in Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center on Friday, July 19, 2024, starting at 8:00 pm. Boisterous, rip-roaring, and rollicking, The Best of SF Comedy Competition promises to leave audiences in stitches. Hosted at the esteemed Bankhead Theater, this comedy extravaganza showcases top-notch stand-up talent that will have you laughing until your sides hurt. Secure your tickets now and prepare to join in the hilarity for an unforgettable comedic experience.
Wine Tasting!
This summer, wine aficionados can delight in exploring Livermore's thriving vineyards and wineries, each offering a unique blend of history, hospitality, and award-winning vintages. Embark on a tasting journey through the picturesque landscapes of Concannon Vineyard, California's oldest continuously operating winery, renowned for its rich heritage and pioneering spirit. Nearby, Wente Vineyards invites guests to savor exceptional wines amid the scenic beauty of its sprawling estate, known for its sustainable practices and world-class hospitality. For those seeking a boutique experience, Retzlaff Vineyards beckons with its intimate setting and handcrafted, organic wines, while Steven Kent Winery showcases small-lot, single-vineyard wines that capture the essence of Livermore Valley.
For a comprehensive guide to navigating Livermore's wine country, Visit Tri-Valley has curated a detailed map highlighting the region's top vineyards and wineries, allowing visitors to plan their perfect tasting itinerary. Explore the map here and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of California's premier wine destination.
Family Fun
Splash Parks and Pools
Beat the heat and splash at Pleasanton's charming splash parks, such as the Val Vista Park Splash Pad or the Ken Mercer Sports Park Splash Zone. Let the little ones cool off and unleash their energy in a safe and fun environment.
Livermore's Community Center offers a haven of family-friendly fun with its inviting pool and splash pad, providing a perfect retreat for warm summer days. From June 10th onwards, LARPD Recreation Swim Centers welcome guests of all ages to enjoy refreshing activities such as open swim and "tot time." Infants aged 6 months and younger enjoy complimentary entry. Families can cool off and play in the Activity pool during designated times, with prices for recreational swims now reduced to $6 for regular sessions and $5 for Hot Nights.
Additionally, Kids' Night Out at the Livermore Community Center pool promises enchanting evenings of themed adventures, offering a variety of exciting experiences for children to enjoy. Each night boasts a unique theme, from the magical "Mer-Mazing Night Out" to the lively "Hula Palooza." These events are filled with themed swimming, indoor games, and activities. As the kids splash and play, they'll also be treated to a delicious pizza dinner and themed snacks to keep their energy levels up. Experienced LARPD camp staff will be on hand to supervise the event, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
Storytime at the Library
Spark your child's imagination with interactive storytime sessions at the Pleasanton Public Library. From classic tales to new adventures, there's a story waiting to captivate young minds.
Pleasanton Public Library holds three storytime sessions, Baby Storytime, Toddler Storytime, and Family Storytime. Baby Storytime includes a gentle introduction to stories, songs and playtimes for infants. It’s best suited for ages 0-24 months. Toddler Storytime includes stories, fingerplays, and songs! Pre-literacy skills are introduced and books are on display for checkout. Best suited for ages 2-5 years. Family Storytime is great for children of all ages with stories, music, and more!
Culinary Experiences
Pleasanton Farmer’s Market
Stroll through the vibrant stalls of the Pleasanton Farmers' Market, brimming with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delectable treats. It's a feast for the senses and a wonderful way to support local farmers and artisans. The Pleasanton Farmers' Market is open every Saturday, year- round, rain or shine from 9am to 1pm.
Livermore Farmer’s Market
Livermore's Farmers Market is a vibrant hub of community and fresh produce, offering locals and visitors alike a delightful experience. Held on Thursday nights from 4 PM to 8 PM, spanning from April through October, and continuing on Sundays year-round from 9 AM to 1 PM.
Nestled in the heart of Livermore, it provides an inviting atmosphere where residents can connect with local farmers and artisans, savoring the abundance of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and artisanal goods on offer. The market is located on Second Street between South L Street and South J Street, in Downtown Livermore, CA.
Forkful Culinary Crawl
This year's Forkful Culinary Crawl will take place on September 7th. During Forkful, each participating restaurant will serve you the "perfect forkful" of food. This is a perfect bite, not a full serving. You will receive a commemorative fork to use throughout the evening and a program with a list of locations and food served.
FoodieLand
If you’re looking for a day trip to experience a festival of food, FoodieLand is your place! Indulge your taste buds at FoodieLand, a culinary extravaganza featuring a diverse array of mouthwatering cuisines, innovative food creations, and delicious treats from local vendors. Explore vibrant food stalls offering everything from gourmet street food to international delicacies, tantalizing desserts, and refreshing beverages. With live entertainment, interactive art installations, and a lively atmosphere, FoodieLand is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and families alike.
While FoodieLand won't take place in the Tri-Valley this year, food enthusiasts can still make a day trip out of it by visiting nearby cities including San Jose (July 12–14 and August 16–18), Sacramento (May 10–12 and August 30–September 1), or San Francisco (May 24–26).
626 Night Market
626 Night Market is coming to the Alameda County Fairgrounds this summer, May 17–19! Indulge in a feast of Asian-inspired street food, unique culinary creations, and delectable desserts from a wide array of vendors. Explore the bustling marketplace filled with artisanal crafts, interactive games, and live entertainment. From savory snacks to sweet treats, the 626 Night Market offers a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere perfect for foodies and families alike.
