Free Events Happening across California this August 2025:

California: Free Events in August 2025:

🎶 Music & Festivals

Fort Mason Night Market – San Francisco

On August 15, enjoy an evening featuring live music, food, drinks, and local crafts at this popular free monthly event. The debut performance will include DJ Mai Azarov at 5 p.m., followed by DJ Black at 7:30 p.m., and indie rocker Matt Jaffe at 6 p.m. San Francisco Chronicle
Jazz at LACMA – Los Angeles

Every Friday in August, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art hosts free jazz concerts at Smidt Welcome Plaza. Music begins at 6 p.m., and LACMA is free to visit for L.A. County residents with ID on weekdays after 3 p.m. WE LIKE L.A.
KCRW Summer Nights – Various Locations

KCRW's signature summer dance party series continues in August with stops at CAMM (August 1), Kidspace Museum (August 2), Wende Museum (August 8), Downtown Long Beach (August 16), and Chinatown (August 23). All events are free to attend. WE LIKE L.A.

🎨 Arts & Culture

Yerba Buena Gardens Festival – San Francisco

Running through October, this admission-free performing arts festival offers concerts and performances including music, dance, theater, circus, and children's programs in the outdoor spaces of Yerba Buena Gardens. Wikipedia
Stern Grove Festival at Fort Mason – San Francisco

On August 15, the Stern Grove Festival curates live performances for the Fort Mason Night Market, featuring DJ Mai Azarov, DJ Black, Matt Jaffe, and the Grease Traps. Admission is free and open to all ages. San Francisco Chronicle

🏖️ Outdoor & Family Activities

CicLAvia – Culver City Meets Venice – Los Angeles

On August 17, enjoy a car-free day with open streets for biking, skating, running, and strolling. This event is completely free to the public. Wikipedia
Coffee with a Cop – Laredo

On August 16, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., the Laredo Police Department hosts its eighth Coffee with a Cop event at McDonald's on Mines Road. This free, public event aims to foster positive communication between LPD officers and the community. Attendees will receive complimentary coffee and have the chance to engage in conversations with local law enforcement. Laredo Morning Times
Nature and Community Fair – California State Parks

On August 23, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., California State Parks hosts the Nature and Community Fair featuring live owls, a petting zoo, and music. Explore over twenty exhibits and tables in the Casa area. California State Parks

🎥 Film & Entertainment

Flicks on the Bricks – San Diego

On August 7, 14, 21, and 28, enjoy classic movies under the stars at the Athenaeum's outdoor movie series. Bring a blanket or chair and relax while watching films on the patio. San Diego