Free events in San Mateo County, CA

At Bloomhouse in East Palo Alto, the East Palo Alto Community Farmers’ Market brings neighbors together around healthy, affordable food. Each week, shoppers can pick up fresh, nutritious fruits and vegetables while connecting with the farmers who grow them and with community-serving organizations. Multiple payment options are accepted, including cash, credit cards, CalFresh/EBT, FMNP WIC checks, and FMNP Senior Checks. CalFresh EBT purchases are matched up to $10 for fresh produce through the Market Match Program. Participants in other government assistance programs may receive an additional $10 each week when they spend $10 on fruits and vegetables.

Tiny Toddlers Open Gym at the Ted Adcock Community Center offers a recurring playdate for children from toddler age up to 6. Kids can enjoy games, activities, and equipment while socializing with other children from around the coast. Admission is free and no registration is required. A parent or guardian must remain with their child during the program, and food is not permitted in the gymnasium. For questions, contact Eddie Behle at the Ted Adcock Community Center at 650-750-2026.

Explore Garba in a welcoming dance session that teaches the steps and rhythms of this traditional Indian folk style. The focus is on lively movement and a strong sense of community, with an emphasis on joy, spirituality, and shared cultural connection. The class is free to attend, and walk-ins are welcome.

Beats Brews & Vines in Downtown Millbrae features The As Is Band in a free performance filled with classic rock, country, Motown and R&B, along with favorites from the 70s and 80s.

Help care for San Pedro Valley Park by clearing invasive plants along trails, brushing path edges, tending the Native Plant Garden at the Visitor Center, and planting new native plants. Friends of San Pedro Valley Park provide guidance through volunteer leaders and supply all necessary tools. Volunteers meet at the Visitor Center to receive assignments and instructions, and no prior experience is required. Bring gloves and any personal protective items such as a mask. Prepare for outdoor conditions by bringing a reusable water bottle and snacks if desired, wearing a hat and sunscreen, choosing long sleeves and long pants, and lacing up sturdy closed-toed shoes that can get dirty. Consider allergy medication if needed and be aware of potential exposure to sun, poison oak, ticks, and prickly plants. Activities proceed unless heavy rain occurs.

In Redwood City, the annual fall swap meet for water sports gear takes place in a parking lot and is open to all at no cost. Sellers and shoppers can trade a wide variety of items, with frequent favorites including used kayaks, stand up paddleboards, windsurfing, kiteboarding, surfing, fishing, and foiling equipment, and any water sports gear is welcome. Participants are encouraged to bring a towel or tarp to place gear on the asphalt, and a limited number of tarps may be available for early arrivals. There is no fee to participate and no RSVP requirement. A spring edition is typically held as well, usually in mid April.

Barkada & Beats debuts in South San Francisco with a Filipino social centered on Manila Sounds and other throwback favorites. The Spindoctor provides the soundtrack, mixing classics that many grew up hearing. This event offers opportunities to meet new people and reconnect with the community. It also marks the first Sunday Sessions gathering, with karaoke continuing after the main program. The venue is Fort McKinley Restaurant, Bar & Banquet in South San Francisco. There is no cover, and an RSVP is required.