As Mill Valley marks its 125th anniversary, the city is pulling out all the stops to celebrate its vibrant history and creative spirit. A major highlight of this milestone year is the much-anticipated return of the Mill Valley Music Festival, taking place May 10-11 at Friends Field.
More than just an outdoor music festival, this two-day extravaganza embodies the essence of Mill Valley— uniting music, arts, and community in a way that feels authentic, intimate, and perfectly designed for Marin locals!
A Homegrown Celebration for the Community
What sets the Mill Valley Music Fest apart is its for-locals-by-locals ethos. Although it invites superstars to headline each year – with Grammy Award-winning artists Gary Clark Jr. and Nile Rodgers & Chic co-headlining the 2025 bill – this independently-produced event is deeply rooted in the Bay Area, showcasing an incredible lineup of beloved hometown vendors, wineries, breweries, and artisans each year.
Don’t forget about local musicians like Rose Paradise, Wreckless Strangers, Meels, Matt Jaffe and more who will help represent the Bay Area as each performs on the festival’s second stage that fellow Mill Valley staple, Sweetwater Music Hall, curates each year.
Arts orgs like O’Hanlon, Mount Tam High Arts, and new this year, Canal Arts, will help create inspiring art installations for patrons to peruse while inside the fest. The new local Mill Valley organization, Woander, will also debut their immersive adventure for children and families through large scale, life-size puppetry.
This annual event is a chance for locals to revel in the awesomeness of their own backyard, while also welcoming visitors from NorCal and far beyond to experience the unique charm of this picturesque mountain town.
Elevating the Fan Experience
Adding to the excitement, the festival is stepping up its beverage game with an expanded local beverage program. A.K.A. we recommend adults come thirsty!
Wine-lovers can take advantage of the festival’s Wine Valley giving guests 21+ access to exclusive pours from top-tier wineries found not far from the festival grounds. Meanwhile, beer enthusiasts will delight in the brand-new Beer Hall, featuring craft selections from the Bay Area’s finest breweries.
For those seeking a different kind of refreshment, the festival is also introducing an exclusvely non-alcoholic bar, ensuring that every guest finds a drink to suit their tastes. To top it all off, festival partners will be hosting unique sponsor activations, including pop-up saloons and surprise tastings.
The Perfect Fest for Families
Falling on Mother’s Day weekend, the festival is curated to bring families together by offering a wide variety of kid-friendly activities to explore – from henna and face painting to flower crowns to lawn games for little ones, and so much more, not to mention bubble art, wand making, large-than-life-sized puppet shows, and tie dye stations.
With a unique music festival experience designed with families in mind, Mill Valley Music Fest is the perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day weekend.
Affordable, Accessible, and Family-Friendly
In a time when festival prices are soaring, the Mill Valley Music Festival remains one of the most affordable experiences in the region, offering top-tier entertainment without the hefty price tag. Beyond affordability, the festival prides itself on accessibility, with its central location just 20 minutes from SF and easy transit options ensuring a seamless arrival experience for festival-goers near and far.
Most importantly, the festival fosters a safe and stress-free environment for families and music lovers alike. With early set times, tons of greenspace for dancing, and a welcoming all-ages atmosphere, it’s an event where everyone – from toddlers to lifelong music fans – can find their groove.
The Mill Valley Music Festival 2025 is more than just a weekend of great music—it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and culture. As the city commemorates 125 years, there’s no better time to come together and make unforgettable memories. Get your tickets now at www.MillValleyMusicFest.com and be part of this uniquely Marin County experience this May!
