Free events in Newark, CA

The H.A.R.D. Foundation and H.A.R.D. present Music at the Mansion, a free community concert series hosted by Patrick Landeza at the historic Mt. Eden Mansion in Hayward. This three-part summer program showcases acclaimed Bay Area artists across jazz, R&B, funk, blues, soul, and Latin traditions. Attendees can enjoy live music in a welcoming outdoor setting, with family-friendly activities and food available for purchase. Admission is free, and guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets. This installment features Latin Rhythm Boys, delivering high energy Puerto Rican music. The group carries forward a legacy that began in 1963 when master cuatrista Jr. Henry Miranda brought Puerto Rican music from Hawai‘i to California. Today, brothers Earl Miranda and Henry Miranda Jr. lead the ensemble with electrifying Salsa and traditional Jíbaro sounds inspired by the FANIA All Stars, blending influences from the Bay Area, Puerto Rico, and New York City. Their recordings include Musica De Mis Padres, Year of the Cuatro, and CELEBRANDO, 60 Years Est. The H.A.R.D. Foundation supports programs that enhance parks, recreation, arts, wellness, and community engagement throughout the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District.

Free Shakespeare in the Park celebrates its 44th season with a production of Antony and Cleopatra, directed by Katja Rivera. Set between Rome and Egypt, this story explores the pull between duty and desire and how personal relationships can shape political power. The performance runs about 90 minutes with no intermission. No tickets are required and no prior Shakespeare experience is needed.

Sinister Dexter brings soulful energy to Stafford Park as part of Music in the Park. This ten-piece band channels the distinctive power of funk-driven horn ensembles, with Rebecca Lipon on lead vocals, a five-piece horn section, and a tight rhythm team fueling danceable grooves from start to finish. The series offers ten weeks of free live music in a relaxed outdoor setting, a welcoming place to enjoy time with friends and family.

Courthouse Square becomes an open-air theater as Movies on the Square marks 20 years in Redwood City. The series features complimentary back-to-back screenings suitable for all ages, with family-friendly titles and Bravemaker independent shorts leading into a full-length feature later in the evening. Select nights pivot to Soccer on the Square community watch parties, including a live FIFA World Cup viewing. Presentations feature HD picture, surround sound, and a large LED screen that delivers clear views throughout the Square. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming. Arriving early helps secure a comfortable spot, and many people bring a blanket and pair the show with takeout from nearby restaurants. Expect a mix of comedy, thrills, and indie discoveries throughout the run.

Courthouse Square becomes an outdoor cinema for thirteen weeks with free double features for all ages. Earlier showings highlight family films or independent shorts, followed by a mix of classics and new releases later in the evening. This screening features F1 (PG-13), with Brad Pitt as a former driver returning to Formula 1 and Damson Idris as his teammate at APXGP, a fictional team on the grid. Scenes were captured during actual Grand Prix weekends as the team faces the sport’s top contenders. The cast also includes Javier Bardem, Kerry Condon, and Tobias Menzies, and it is directed by Joseph Kosinski. The film runs 150 minutes and is from 2025.

Courthouse Square hosts a long-running community concert series that has brought live music to downtown Redwood City for 20 years. Open to all ages, the season spans rock, reggae, funk, Latin, and soul across fourteen weeks of free Friday night performances featuring artists from the Bay Area and beyond. Attendees can settle in with a lawn chair or blanket, pick up food from acclaimed nearby restaurants, and enjoy a beloved Peninsula tradition. Highlights of the season range from the electrifying Santana Tribute of Carnaval to the crowd-pleasing pop and soul of Pride & Joy. Please note that glass bottled beverages are not permitted and this policy will be enforced.

Experience live music at the Kiwanis farmers market in Redwood City, featuring Margie Muzik and Going Vertical Music.