When we think of ‘downtown’ many of us instinctively think of San Francisco with its exciting music and theater venues, restaurants and shopping. However, there is a vibrant downtown right here in Marin and that is San Rafael’s Fourth Street. This downtown area has undergone a transformation over the past few years and now offers many diverse restaurants, coffee houses, boutiques, shops and the popular Christopher B. Smith Rafael Film Center.


During the year many activities take place along Fourth Street. Now that spring has arrived the Downtown San Rafael Farmer’s Market is held on Thursday evenings, featuring five entertainment stages and over 200 vendors. This event is fun for all ages with its entertainment, music, crafts and wonderful, fresh produce and flowers and runs April through September. So treat yourself to an evening in downtown San Rafael. You’ll be glad you did!


Upcoming Downtown San Rafael Events:

May 8: May Madness Classic Car Parade
The longest running street rod show and parade in Northern California.

June 12-13: Youth in Arts Italian Street Painting Festival
A celebration of art, music and cuisine.

July 10: San Rafael Twilight Criterium
Professional cycling event featuring short, fast-paced American brand of cycling with an Expo, Pro Athlete Village and Kids Race.

August 14: San Rafael Food & Wine Festival
Held at the Falkirk Center, enjoy food from area restaurants and sample wines from 25 of the region’s outstanding boutique wineries.

September 11: Great American Blues & BBQ
Blues performances by local and national blues artists are featured on multiple stages with barbeque food concessions and competitions.

September 22: A Taste of Downtown San Rafael
Tasting event and outdoor movie screening

October 7-17: Mill Valley Film Festival
The San Rafael Film Center serves as one of the venues for this renowned Festival.

October 30: Trick or Treat
A free and safe Trick or Treating experience for kids along Fourth Street.

November 26-27: Parade of Lights & Winter Wonderland
Holiday Marketplace with arts and crafts, live entertainment, children’s activities, free snow sledding, and one of the largest Holiday Parades in the Bay Area.

Posted by: Alva Falla and Associates