Fall approaches, but the fun isn’t over yet, with foodie fairs, theater openings and neighborhood festivals all coming this month. Plus, fall fundraising season is once again in full swing, so pick your favorite nonprofit and step out for a good cause.
Annual Fairs & Festivals | Arts, Theater & Lectures | Comedy | Film | Food & Drink | Fundraisers & Galas | Music | Museums | Outdoor Fun | Other Events
Get Involved: Community Happenings
Sausalito Boat Show, Winston Preparatory School, Marin Art & Garden Center’s Edible Garden, Side by Side’s Reach for the Stars, Marin CASA’s Rising Stars Gala, Stepping Out To Celebrate Life 30th Anniversary Gala, 68th Annual Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival, SchoolsRule Marin’s Fundraiser — On the Road to Equity, Sound Summit
Fundraisers & Galas
Hot Tickets, Media Partners & Premium Calendar Listings
Sound Summit Fundraiser for Nature Conservation
Sept 13
Sound Summit, presented by nonprofit Roots & Branches Conservancy, returns to the hills of Mount Tamalpais for another daylong celebration of music and community. This year’s gathering at the Mountain Theater will feature headliner Cake plus Alvvays, Stand! and a special tribute to Sly Stone. Sound Summit has raised $250,000 to date for Mount Tam.
Marin Garden Center’s Edible Garden Fundraiser
Sept 14
The Marin Art and Garden Center’s annual fundraiser centers around a bounty from local restaurants and wineries plus the Center’s own Edible Garden. Botanical cocktails, al fresco dining and a stroll through the beautiful garden make this an elegant event to support the Art and Garden Center’s continued community engagement and education on the beauty of nature.
Sausalito Boat Show
Sept 19-21
Tour new boats, meet marine experts, enjoy live music, food, art—and experience the Bay’s premier waterfront event all weekend long. Clipper Yacht Harbor, Sausalito. Tickets start at $25
Reach for the Stars Denim & Diamonds Gala benefitting Side by Side
Sept 19
Join Side by Side to support behavioral and mental health services for nearly 1,800 youth at the organization’s annual Reach for the Stars Gala. This year’s event, with a theme of “Denim & Diamonds” promises to be a dazzling affair, where elegance meets casual chic at the College of Marin’s Bill and Adele Jonas Center in Novato. Side by Side provides services for youth and their families across Alameda, Marin, Napa, and Sonoma Counties. Tickets to Denim & Diamonds start at $300, and can be purchased here.
Rising Stars: Fostering Growth to a Brighter Tomorrow
Sept 20
Please join Marin CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) at the Marin Art and Garden Center on Saturday, September 20 to support its Rising Stars and foster a brighter tomorrow for the 120 youths in the foster care and juvenile justice systems that Marin CASA supports. The inspiring evening promises wine, dinner and a live auction.
Marin CASA’s annual gala is its biggest event of the year and is critical in helping the organization meet its fundraising goals. With many government budgets being slashed and as uncertainty looms, your financial support this year is more important than ever before. Purchase tickets here.
SchoolsRule Marin’s Fundraiser — On the Road to Equity
Sept 20
Join us for an evening of philanthropy set among a renowned, private, classic-car collection in San Rafael, to support students across Marin public schools countywide. Those who love to support quality education will appreciate this evening fundraiser whose proceeds will fund vital programs in the arts, literacy, technology and health across all Marin school districts. Attendees will come together for an inspirational program and enjoy cocktails, a gourmet sit-down dinner all while being surrounded by a private collection of 100 classic and antique cars.
Marin Community Clinics Benefit Golf Tournament
Sept 22
StoneTree Golf Club’s 132 acres of pristine greens, shaded oak groves, and rolling golden hills set the stage for an unforgettable day on the greens. The day includes tournament contests, a barbecue lunch, a buffet dinner and numerous silent auctions. All proceeds will advance Marin Community Clinics’ promise to make medical, dental and behavioral health services possible for 1 in 5 Marin County residents.
Spirit of Marin Awards
Sept 26
Bank of Marin celebrates the winners of the Spirit of Marin Award at its annual luncheon at the Clubhouse at Peacock Gap. The award recognizes citizens who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to Marin County through their leadership, volunteerism and philanthropy.
To Celebrate Life Breast Cancer Foundation’s 30th Anniversary Stepping Out Gala
Sept 27
Since 1996, To Celebrate Life has granted funding to Bay Area organizations that assist breast cancer patients with emphasis targeting underserved communities and families. The highlight of its annual fundraiser held at the Marin Center Exhibit Hall—celebrating it’s 30th year—is an uplifting, inspirational fashion show featuring models thriving after breast cancer. Tickets start at $375.
Roadmaps for Neurodivergent Learners: Assesment, Education & Collaboration
Sept 28
Join Winston Prep for Roadmaps for Neurodivergent Learners: Assessment, Education & Collaboration. This is a free event for parents of neurodivergent children, focused on the power of collaboration between experts in education, law, and mental health.
From 9am-2pm
Santa Rosa Junior College, The Lindley Center
1501 Mendocino Ave
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Annual Fairs and Festivals Not to Miss
68th Annual Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival
Sept 20-21
Mill Valley
Old Mill Park
The annual Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival returns to the towering redwoods in Old Mill Park. 135 local and international artists, all hand selected by a jury, will offer their art, jewelry, ceramics, fashion and more for sale. There’s also live music and plenty of entertainment and activities for the kids.
Oktoberfest
Sept 20
Mill Valley
Tam Valley Community Center, 203 Marin Avenue
The first of a few Oktoberfest celebrations coming to Marin this fall, Tam Valley Community Center gets the festivities started with games, food, music and beer.
San Rafael PorchFest
Sept 21
San Rafael
Gerstle Park Neighborhood
It’s the ultimate neighborhood party in San Rafael’s Gerstle Park neighborhood for this afternoon of live music. Bands and artists make venues out of front yards and porches. On a pleasant late-summer day, this music festival is perfect for a stroll and some neighborly fun.
Sept 27-28
San Francisco
Chinatown
A harvest festival with 3,000 years of history, this tradition packs Chinatown’s Grant Avenue with a parade, dancers, activities and food — including many, many mooncakes.
Arts, Lectures & Theater
Rigoletto
Sept 5–27
San Francisco
SF Opera opens its 2025–2026 season with this Verdi masterpiece. Pro tip: score a ticket for $10 with the “Opera for the Bay” program, available to Bay Area residents who haven’t visited SF Opera in the last three years.
Author Talk: Bonnie Tsui
Sept 10
Mill Valley Library
The bestselling author of Why We Swim shares a mind-expanding exploration of muscle that is the crux of her new book On Muscle, in a riveting conversation with New York Times bestselling author Peggy Orenstein at the Mill Valley Library.
Opera in the Amphitheater
Sept 13
Novato
This event is a rare opportunity to hear world-class opera singers in a community venue. The afternoon begins at Novato’s Hamilton Amphitheater at 4 p.m. with family-friendly activities and trivia, but the day really kicks off with the performances, which include appearances by professional singers from near and far. Admission is free, but a $20 donation per person is encouraged.
Tartuffe
Sept 12–Oct 12
Ross
Ross Valley Players kick off their 96th season with a beloved French comedy about a man who brings a supposedly pious guest into his home, only to discover he is an impostor.
Interpretations: Color, Line, Form
Sept 18–Nov 14
Belvedere Tiburon Library
This multimedia exhibit showcases expressions of an artist’s emotions, ideas and thoughts conveyed through visual elements rather than capturing realistic people, places or things.
9 to 5: The Musical
Sept 19–Oct 12
Novato
Channel your inner Dolly Parton at this musical of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era, which opens Novato Theater Company’s 2025–2026 season.
Jake Shimabukuro: An Evening of Island Magic & Luau
Sept 13
This themed fundraiser for community education features ukulele legend Jake Shimabukuro, plus Hawaiian cuisine, drinks, hula, tiki carving and a raffle of incredible prizes.
BayWood Artists 28th Annual Show
Sept 19-21
Marin Art and Garden Center
This group of local landscape artists are holding their annual benefit for the beautiful state parks they paint. BayWood Artists exhibit State Park Impressions at the Marin Art and Garden Center, where half of all proceeds will go to Parks California. Attend the show’s reception the evening of Sept 19, or stop by the gallery over the weekend to view and purchase works. Admission is free.
Les Misérables
Sept 24–Oct 5
The world’s most popular musical returns to San Francisco for a limited engagement at the Orpheum Theater.
Litquake Out Loud
Sept 28
Browse the best in local literature set to a day of poetry readings from Litquake Out Loud at this free event held the Yerba Buena Gardens.
Local Author Panel: What is a Good Death?
Sept 29
Katy Butler, Mark Dowie and Amy Shea explore the profound theme of death and dying from unique and powerful perspectives, with Dawn Gross moderating.
Comedy
Stamptown
Sept 12-13
It’s never the same show twice at this outlandish production at Club Fugazi, brought to you from the creators of SF Sketchfest and led by the bad boy of clown Zach Zucker and his guest performers.
Ian Williams
Sept 19
SF Stand-up Comedy Competition Finals
Trek Wine in Novato hosts Ian Williams, a veteran comic who once had his own MTV show. The evening also includes an amateur showcase for newer comics who take a turn at the mic—visit the website to sign up.
Sept 20
Get your funny bone tickled at the final round of this annual comedy competition, which takes place at the Marin Center in San Rafael.
Film
Family Movie Night at Creek Park
Sept 13
San Anselmo
Creek Park
As part of its Live on the Avenue series, San Anselmo has partnered with CAFilm to show free outdoor movies in Creek Park. School of Rock followed by That Thing You Do is the double feature of the evening.
Bolinas Film Festival
Sept 18-21
Bolinas
In addition to film screenings and discussions, the third annual Bolinas Film Festival includes add-on immersive experiences like farm tours, table reads and nature excursions, plus an opening gala.
Italian Film Festival
Sept 27–Nov 1
Dominican University
Che bello! This nearly 50-year-old Marin tradition screens Italian films across six Saturdays at Dominican University’s Angelico Hall. All films are in Italian, with English subtitles.
Food & Drink
Hops & Vines Stroll
Sept 6
Marin’s craft beer and fine wines get the spotlight at this walk through downtown San Rafael. With an empty glass and brewery map in hand, take a happy hoppy journey around the Fourth Street corridor’s fine establishments.
“Beauty Ranch” Benefitting Jack London State Historic Park
Sept 20
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening where history, nature and imagination converge. Indulge your senses with a progressive meal by Park Avenue Catering, inspired by savory farm flavors and vineyard libations that starts in the natural beauty of the Eucalyptus Grove and ends at the stunning Winery Ruins.
SF Cheese Festival
Sept 13
It’s the creme de la triple creme of California cheese at this yearly festival at the SF Ferry Building. Mingle with fellow cheese fiends, nibble on choice fromage and learn from specialists who run the creameries.
Fairfax Town Picnic
Sept 13
Pack a basket and roll out your blanket for this town-wide gathering at Contratti Ball Field with a big dose of community and sunshine.
Annual Chili Cook-Off in Sausalito
Sept 20
There’s nothing like a chili cook-off to bring out fiercely competitive spirits, and Sausalito’s 46th Annual Chili Cook-Off comes to Dunphy Park on September 20. Event goers can sample the goods and watch a few extra brave souls participate in a hot pepper eating contest. There’s live music, and by the end of the day, awards will be disbursed to the best chilis of the year.
Music
San Francisco Opera Ball
Sept 5
During the San Francisco Opera’s biggest fundraiser of the year, walk the red carpet into San Francisco’s stunning City Hall for an exquisite cocktail reception. Then, find your seat for dinner to indulge in an enchanting culinary spectacle created by local chefs. After dinner, walk across the street to enjoy the opening night performance of performance of Verdi’s masterpiece Rigoletto conducted by Music Director Eun Sun Kim and enjoy an after-party of dancing and delights.
Rock the Block Novato: End of Summer Edition
Sept 11
Downtown Novato is still basking in the late-summer sun with this block party and town concert. Enjoy an evening of food, drinks and dancing.
SF Symphony’s Opening Night Gala
Sept 12
Opening night at the San Francisco Symphony is always a highlight of the fall season, and this year’s event will mark the orchestral organization’s 115th season. Superstar pianist Yuja Wang takes the stage with conductor Jaap van Zweden and the San Francisco Symphony in a special program featuring Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s electrifying Piano Concerto No. 1, John Adams’s thrilling Short Ride in a Fast Machine, and Ottorino Respighi’s majestic Pines of Rome. Proceeds from the gala directly support the symphony’s acclaimed education, community, and artistic programs serving more than 75,000 people each year.
Celebrating Hardly Strictly Bluegrass with Lyle Lovett
Sept 13
The San Francisco Symphony comes together with Lyle Lovett and his Acoustic Group for a celebration of the iconic San Francisco music festival’s 25th anniversary.
Portola Music Fest
Sept 20–21
This popular electronic dance music fest on Pier 80 in San Francisco brings in tons of dance-worthy acts, including big guns like Christina Aguilera, The Chemical Brothers and Moby.
Museums
Thirty Days of Claude
Sept 1-30
The California Academy of Sciences’ iconic albino alligator, Claude, is turning the big 3-0, and the museum is celebrating big with tons of merchandise giveaways, special daily programs and a chance to sing happy birthday to the king of the Swamp on Sept. 14 along with cupcakes for humans and a special fish cake for Claude.
The Sky Below
Through Sept 21
This group exhibition at MarinMOCA inspired by feminist science fiction features eight Bay Area artists who look inward and earthward to imagine futures rooted in care, creativity, and collective transformation.
Hold Fast, From Below and What Maps Reveal
Through Sept 21
The Bolinas Museum presents three simultaneous new exhibits exploring water through mixed mediums, coastal features photography and a historical map collection.
Outdoor Fun
Run Tiburon
Sept 7
Lace up for a 5K or 10K to benefit UCSF’s cancer research and clinics, all along idyllic views of the bay from Tiburon’s waterfront.
California Coastal Cleanup Day
Sept 20
The annual cleanup day is hosting its first Trashure Hunt—the world’s largest scavenger hunt in which special “trash” items will be hidden at cleanup sites which can be redeemed for valuable prizes.
Other Events
WildCare Gala with Animal Ambassadors
Sept 6
WildCare’s yearly gala raises thousands toward the nonprofit’s care for injured and orphaned wild animals, as well as its continued education and advocacy work to protect wildlife. The animal ambassadors are the stars of this event, and guests can enjoy a vegan gourmet dinner by McCall’s alongside event programming.
Buckles and Bling to Benefit Halleck Creek Ranch
Sept 12
Since 1977, Halleck Creek Ranch has helped people with disabilities live a life without barriers through Equine-Assisted Activities (EAA) and therapeutic horseback riding. The ranch’s annual fundraiser, Buckles and Bling, is held annually at Rancho Nicasio and features wine tastings, delicious food, live music and three auctions.
Marin Senior Fair
Sept 17
This disco-themed day event for seniors and their caregivers at the Marin Center enables discovery of senior resources, services and activities, plus there’s lots of live entertainment, a raffle and a quilt show.
Marin Humane’s Tails by Twilight
Sept 27
Tails by Twilight, Marin Humane‘s annual gala, treats guests to cocktails and food while gathering donation’s for the organization’s many services. Silent and live auctions raise funds, with much of the proceeds going toward the fund-a-need for Marin Humane’s youth programs. Photos courtesy of Marin Humane.
Dog Days with the San Francisco Giants
Sept 27
San Francisco
In community partnership with SF SPCA, the San Francisco Giants are inviting all dog lovers and their pup sidekicks to Oracle Park for a PAW-SOME day. Cheer on the Giants as they take on the Colorado Rockies – but before you do, suit up your furry friends in costume for a chance to snag a contest crown. There’s also a pregame on-field parade. Partial proceeds from each special event ticket will benefit the SF SPCA.
Give Back When You Go Out: Volunteer
Looking for more ways to give back to our community by volunteering your time? Here’s a list of Marin County nonprofits supporting a variety of causes — ranging from helping our most vulnerable residents to keeping our environment healthy — where your assistance can really make a difference.
