Things to do this weekend in and around San Francisco
Friendly fun in San Francisco for July 18–20, 2025
(Scroll down for full list of weekend activities.)
Friday, July 18
Kick off your weekend with a magical evening at Sunset Fridays at San Francisco Zoo & Gardens, where live music, kid-friendly activities, and ambassador animals await from 5–7pm. For a morning of creativity, head to Creation Station at Children's Museum of Sonoma County (11am–1pm), where little hands can explore art and science. Downtown, Friday Farmer's Market in Old Oakland (8am–2pm) offers fresh produce and local treats. Young baseball fans will love the Firework Games with the San Jose Giants—check the website for game times and post-game fireworks. And for a dose of culture, A Treasury of Animation at the Cartoon Art Museum (11am–5pm) showcases the art behind your favorite cartoons.
Saturday, July 19
Start your Saturday with a unique yoga experience at Zen at the Zoo, where you can stretch alongside giraffes and zebras—check the website for class times. Capture family memories with a free mini photo session with Shoott at scenic Bay Area locations (times vary). Budding artists will adore Open Art Lab at BAMPFA in Berkeley, offering hands-on art activities for all ages. For a playful afternoon, visit Wonder Cabinet at Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose, where interactive exhibits spark curiosity. And don’t miss Backstage with Edward Gorey at the Cartoon Art Museum (11am–5pm), a whimsical exhibit perfect for older kids and parents alike.
Sunday, July 20
Sunday is all about relaxed family fun. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and live music at Sunday Funnies at the Cartoon Art Museum (11am–5pm), where classic comics come to life. Head to Berkeley for Open Art Lab at BAMPFA, where creativity flows for all ages. For a dose of nature, visit the Penguin Feeding at California Academy of Sciences (10:30am and 3pm daily), a crowd-pleaser for animal lovers. And if you’re up for a drive, Garden Party at Children's Museum of Sonoma County (2–3:30pm) offers outdoor play and exploration in Santa Rosa.