eve openers
Huge festival weekend in the Bay Area
There are festivals and fun stuff going on all over the Bay Area this weekend. Here’s a look at some of the bigger events — and check our fairs and festivals roundup at www.mercurynews.com/entertainment for a complete roundup of fun stuff going on through the summer. Gilroy Garlic Festival: The famed culinary celebration is back with a Gourmet Alley, cooking demonstrations and competitions, arts and crafts, live entertainment, children’s activities and more. Details: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and 10a.m.-6p.m. Sunday; Christmas Hill Park, 7050 Miller Ave., Gilroy; $12.99-$20; under 9free; www. gilroygarlicfestival.com Art + Soul Oakland: Estelle, Fantastic Negrito, Alphabet Rockers, Oakland Blues Divas and members of West Coast Blues Caravan of Allstars are among the musical performers at this annual fest that also includes a multitude of dance performances, an artisan marketplace, food, wine, craft beer and kids activities. Details: noon-6p.m. Saturday and Sunday; downtown Oakland; $8-$18; artandsouloakland.com. Berkeley Kite Festival: Prepare to be dazzled by the incredible kite-flying demonstrations and competitions, giant creature kites and more. There are also kite-making lessons, food, live music, a candy drop, children’s zone with crafts, pony rides and more. Details: 10a.m.-6p.m. Saturday and Sunday; Cesar E. Chavez Park at the Berkeley Marina; free admission; www.berkeleykitefestival.com PAL Music Festival: The annual fundraiser features live blues, reggae and more, art booths, food trucks and a kids zone. Concession proceeds benefit Police Activities League’s educational and recreational summer programs for kids. Details: noon-8 p.m. Saturday; Courthouse Square, 2200Broadway, Redwood City; free admission; www.PALMusicFestival.com Benicia Waterfront Festival: This event on Benicia’s lovely First Street Green offers live music, craft beers, wine, food, a vendor village and kids activities. Details: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; $5-$10, $15two-day pass; beniciamainstreet.org