Silicon Valley Wanderings
By Robert Haugh
School is out. The grass is freshly mowed. Summer has arrived.
Perhaps there’s no better way to kick off the summer season than with fireworks, hot dogs, and a big helping of Americana on the 4th of July.
A myriad of events are planned. Here’s just a few:
Santa Clara All-City Picnic and Fireworks Extravaganza
Tuesday, July 4
Central Park, 909 Kiely Blvd.
12 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. FREE
Activities include music by the Deja Vu Band and Buchser Jazz Band, The Megatones and Pop Fiction, concluding with a fireworks extravaganza at approximately 9:30 p.m. Other festivities include carnival games, jump houses, face painting, kids’ crafts, free public swimming at the International Swim Center (limited capacity – first-come, first-served), information booths and food sales and several food trucks.
Tahiti Fete of San Jose – 25th Anniversary
Saturday, July 1 to Sunday, July 3
San Jose State Event Center
290 S. 7th Street, San Jose 95192
Considered the largest Tahitian dance competition in the U.S., this event spotlights traditional Tahitian dance. Dancers come from all over the world to compete.
In addition to highly choreographed dances with elaborate cultural costumes that showcase the rich history of the Polynesian people, food vendors will sell Polynesian treats and artisans will offer exquisite Polynesian crafts for sale. Guests may also participate in dance workshops.
VinoPaint “Tiki Island” at Tessora’s Barra di Vino
Tuesday, July 11
6 to 9 p.m.
234 E. Campbell Ave., Campbell 95008
Tickets start at $35. Tickets start at $35.
Create your own “Tiki Island” painting – a colorful and fun beach and Tiki-themed artwork. You can enjoy painting while sipping wine and eating libations as part of VinoPaint adventures. The art, based on original work by Bay Area artist Sonya Paz incorporates Summer fun with Paz’ well-known pop art flavors. Beginners need not worry – Paz leads everyone as they create their own masterpieces. 21-and-over event.
California’s Great America Fireworks & Military Appreciation
California’s Great America will celebrate the July 4th holiday weekend with fireworks set to patriotic music each night from July 1-4. Additionally, current and past military men and women will be honored with free park admission (with valid ID) July 1-4 and can bring up to 6 guests for just $22.99 each.
In addition, on July 4th, Coca-Cola will create an in-park destination near Food Festival with tasting samples of Coca-Cola, Diet Coke and Coke Zero, a giant interactive inflatable, a photo booth and a prize wheel.
Concerts in the Park: Orquesta Latin Heat
Friday, July 7
Central Park Pavilion, 909 Kiely Blvd.
6:30 to 8 p.m. FREE
Orquesta Latin Heat features a swinging horn section, fiery rhythms and authentic Latin percussion and vocals will perform Salsa, Merengue, Latin Jazz, Cumbia and more.
Stadium Links at Levi’s Stadium
Friday, July 7 to Sunday, July 9 (Saturday is sold out)
Levi’s Stadium, 4900 Marie P. DeBartolo Way
StadiumLinks is transforming Levi’s Stadium into a one-of-a-kind golf experience. Imagine yourself standing on tee boxes elevated hundreds of feet above while aiming at nine target flags located on greens that are custom designed into the playing field.