Community is central to many of Marin’s cities and towns, and every year the county holds diverse events to salute its people, culture and art. No matter what tickles your fancy or what you like to do on your free weekends, Marin has something special to offer you.
The 2025 readers’ choice Best of the County winner is the Marin County Fair (pictured above). For the rest of the Marin Magazine‘s Best of Marin County Community Event picks see below.
Our 2025 Arts & Entertainment category sponsor is MarinArts. View the rest of the Arts & Entertainment category here.
We’ve broken it down by region: Southern, Central and Northern Marin.
Southern Marin
Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival
Mill Valley
Once a year, the arts community in Mill Valley gathers amongst the redwoods for a vibrant celebration of creativity. Explore and purchase unique works from over 135 artists, with everything from fine art to handcrafted goods for sale. Plus, enjoy live music, a children’s grove and more.
Cascade Way, Mill Valley
Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks
Sausalito
The Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks is an unforgettable part of Sausalito’s annual Winterfest. The fleet of boats decked out in shimmering lights floating along the waterfront at nighttime truly has to be seen to be believed.
Sausalito Waterfront, Gabrielson Park, Sausalito
Central Marin
Fairfax Festival
Fairfax
Fairfax is known for its nonconformist, fun and funky character, making it a draw for any foodie, cycling enthusiast or anyone who wants an escape from the city. Nothing better exemplifies this culture like the Fairfax Festival, a bright flare of food, arts and music. Highlights include the Saturday parade and the kid-zone on the ball field.
66-88 Bolinas Rd, Fairfax
Marin County Fair
San Rafael
Another Readers’ Choice recipient to keep their streak going, they first appeared on the scene in 1925 and embody everything that a nostalgic summer should — pie contests, pig races and live music. Whether it’s your 50th fair experience or your first, you’ll get all the fair feels here.
10 Ave of the Flags, San Rafael, 415.499.6400
San Anselmo Live on the Avenue
San Anselmo
Looking for live music? A family-friendly atmosphere? Or perhaps a vibrant community gathering? Live on the Avenue transforms downtown San Anselmo into a bustling pedestrian promenade every Friday and Saturday evening from June through September. With two stages, (Creek Park Amphitheater and Town Hall Plaza) hosting a variety of performances, from blues to indie rock, there’s something for everyone. The event also features rotating activities like movie nights, art exhibitions, and a Kids Zone, making it a perfect outing for all ages.
San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.258.4640
Northern Marin
Novato Art, Wine and Music Festival
Novato
As the name promises, this summer festival has got art, it’s got wine and it’s got music. What more could a person want? Well, one could also want free admission, but this festival has that too! The variety of sponsors, vendors and performers creates a melange of experiences to try out.
Grant Ave, Novato, 415.897.1164
Arts & Entertainment Sponsor
MarinArts
MarinArts is a nonprofit organization that has been proudly promoting the arts and cultural events in Marin County for over ten years. They provide a FREE platform for arts organizations, artists, and venues to share their events through our online calendar.
Fun Fact: Their website is accessible in 11 languages — including Spanish, French, and Vietnamese — helping you connect with a wide and diverse audience.
MarinArts | San Rafael, CA | 415.578.3856 | marinarts.org
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