Local Events – Contra Costa

EVENTS

Welcome to Contra Costa County, where urban sophistication meets natural splendor and the gentle breezes of the San Francisco Bay enrich the atmosphere. Located in Northern California, this vibrant region offers an array of experiences for every traveler. Embark on a historical journey through charming towns like Martinez and Antioch, where you can explore rich heritage and local museums amidst stunning landscapes. Discover the scenic beauty of Mount Diablo State Park, where outdoor enthusiasts can hike, bike, or picnic with panoramic views stretching across the Bay Area.

Experience the dynamic food scene in Contra Costa’s bustling cities like Walnut Creek and Concord, where farm-to-table dining showcases the freshest local ingredients. For wine lovers, visit the burgeoning wineries and vineyards that dot the county, offering delightful tastings and tours in a picturesque setting. Take a leisurely stroll along the Carquinez Strait or enjoy a relaxing day at one of the county’s pristine parks and lakes, where tranquility and natural beauty abound.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Contra Costa County promises unforgettable experiences at every turn.

For more information, please visit: https://contracosta.news/events/

Ongoing Events

Sundays year-round | Walnut Creek Farmers’ Market
Locust St. (between Cole & Lacassie), 9 am–1 pm. Certified producers, local makers, and prepared foods, rain or shine.

Saturdays year-round | Brentwood Farmers’ Market
Downtown Brentwood (First & Oak), typically 9 am–1 pm; spring/summer hours 8 am–12 pm.

Tuesdays year-round | Concord Farmers’ Market
Todos Santos Plaza, 9 am–2 pm. Fresh produce and artisan goods in the heart of downtown.

First Friday monthly | First Fridays — Downtown Martinez
Art, music, pop-ups and extended-hour shops, 6–9 pm along Main Street.

November 2025

Nov 21–Jan 11 | Garden of D’Lights (Ruth Bancroft Garden)
Walnut Creek — The desert garden glows with immersive light art on select nights. Timed entry 5:30/6:30/7:30 pm.

Nov 21 | Opening Night: Garden of D’Lights
Walnut Creek — Kickoff evening for the light show, 5:30–8:30 pm.

Nov 22 | Light Up the Night (Pleasant Hill)
Downtown Pleasant Hill — Tree lighting, performances, crafts & holiday train, 4:30–7:30 pm.

Nov 29 | Brentwood Winter Wine Walk & Holiday Shop
Downtown Brentwood — Sip & shop with local pours, 1–4 pm.

Nov 29 | Brentwood Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting
Downtown Brentwood — Illuminated parade 5–7 pm; tree lighting follows.

December 2025

Dec 5 | Concord Tree Lighting & Mayor’s Sing-Along
Todos Santos Plaza — Carriage rides, reindeer, Santa’s Village & the big light-up, 5:30–8 pm.

Dec 13 | Santa Beer Crawl (Downtown Martinez)
Martinez — Ticketed stroll with craft beer tastings at Main St. businesses, 1–4 pm.

Nov 21–Jan 19 | Walnut Creek On Ice (Civic Park)
Seasonal rink in downtown Walnut Creek; reserve sessions in advance.

Dec (select dates) | Center REP: A Christmas Carol
Lesher Center, Walnut Creek — The classic holiday production returns.

January 2026

Jan 1 | First Day Hikes (California State Parks)
Kick off the year outdoors—nearby Mount Diablo hosts guided New Year’s hikes.

Through Jan 19 | Walnut Creek On Ice
Civic Park — Last chance to skate (and try the 90-ft ice slide).

Jan 24 | Late Nite Catechism 3: Til Death Do Us Part
Lesher Center — Comedy favorite for one night only.

February 2026

Feb 8 | Tutti Frutti The Musical: The Life & Music of Little Richard
Lesher Center — A whirlwind tour through rock-and-roll history, 2 pm.

(Additional late-winter programs for families run at Lindsay Wildlife Experience; see their current calendar.)

March 2026

Mar 27–28 | Diablo Ballet: Romeo & Juliet Suite
Lesher Center — Passionate classics from Walnut Creek’s resident ballet.

Late Mar–Apr | Center REP: Lost in Yonkers
Lesher Center — Neil Simon’s Pulitzer-winner in the 25/26 season lineup. Check ticketing for exact dates.

April 2026

Apr 25 | Bay Area Craft Beer Festival
Martinez Waterfront — Big regional brew fest returns “reimagined” for 2026.

TBA April (watch site) | Spring Plant Sale (Ruth Bancroft Garden)
Walnut Creek — One of NorCal’s best succulent/CA-native sales.