Where: Lake Merritt Boating Center
Why: The only thing better than boats are free boats. Even better: free parking on Grand Ave. Paddle boats, canoes, kayaks and row boats are all free to rent for 30 minutes – hell, even a sailboat if you can prove you know what the hell you’re doing. // 568 Bellevue Ave, Oakland
Don’t tell your Crossfit friends you were here
When: Saturday, July 21st, 4 P.M. – 10 P.M.
Where: 401 Minna Street
Why: Did your hip startup promise you “unlimited PTO” but freak out every time you actually want to take a vacation? It’s cool, because Asia’s famous night markets are coming to you in the form of the Undiscovered Filipino Night Market. Enjoy three full bars, karaoke, mahjong, a Lego build area, live music, and of course, loads of Filipino food vendors from and beyond the Bay Area. // Admission is free, but a $5 donation is appreciated and suggested.
‘Cause it’s a bittersweet symphony
When: Sunday, June 22nd, 2 P.M.
Where: Stern Grove, San Francisco
Why: Every year, the San Francisco Symphony performs at Stern Grove Festival and it’s kind of the best thing ever. Its 2018 edition will feature conductor Jayce Ogren. It’s totally free, and the beautiful park setting is worth arriving early for.
Beer gardens are the new tea parties
When: Friday, July 20th, 6:30 – 11:30 P.M.
Where: Conservatory of Flowers, San Francisco
Why: Leave it to the Bay Area to fuse tropical plants with craft brews for a fancypants weekend experience. Craft brew masters will be setting up shop in the Conservatory of Flowers’ Victorian greenhouse, and food trucks will be around for the Botanicals and Brews Beer Garden. // 100 John F. Kennedy Drive, San Francisco, tickets available here.
