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Labor Day Weekend Events in the Bay Area 2014

A list of family-friendly fun for the three day weekend

By Inspired by Naomi Alfaro, edited by Jennifer Hill August 28, 2014
Although not as celebrated as the 4th of July, Labor Day weekend still offers lots of great events around the San Francisco Bay for you and the family to enjoy.

In this article we have provided you with a list of events happening this coming holiday weekend. Take your pick, plan to attend an event or two with the family.

Don't miss out on other fun within our community such as farmers' markets or other free events that can be found on our calendar here.

American Girl BeForever Debut: Celebrate the debut of the inspiring BeForever characters! At this special event, your girl will be among the first to learn about this exciting world and find a character she loves. Free hands-on crafts, a scavenger hunt, free giveaways and more, from 1 pm to 3 pm at the American Girl Store.

Brazilian Day 2014: Take a trip into Berkeley and spend the day celebrating Brazilian culture. Enjoy music and dance, children's village, food and beverages and fun for the whole family. Free to attend and held on the 31st, from 9 am to 7 pm. 

Hiero Day 2014: Hiero Day is a Free Music and Indie culture festival that is celebrated annually in Oakland. Enjoy a day of fun, food and music on 9/1. This is an all ages, all day free event with three stages featuring performances by over 28 artists.

Historic Rail Fair - Ardenwood Farm: Great event for all train lovers! Ardenwood's railroad will bring local history alive with a steam locomotive, equipment displays, model railroad layouts, handcar rides and more. Held all weekend (Saturday, Sunday and Monday).

Kings Mountain Art Fair: An annual Labor Day weekend event benefiting the Kings Mountain Volunteer Fire Brigade and other community activities, including the Kings Mountain Elementary School. Known for its stunning location among the redwoods and for its unique and varied artists. Enjoy food and beverages, Kiddie Hollow, meet the firefighters and enjoy the day. Admission and parking are free.

Komodo Karnival at the San Francisco Zoo: A Labor Day weekend extravaganza filled with classic carnival festivities... with a twist! Komodo Karnival will feature good ol' fashioned fun with a nod to Big Daddy Bahasa, our charismatic Komodo Dragon. After you stop by and see him at Komodo Alley, try your luck at fun games like Crazy Ball, Ring the Bottle, Hoop Shot, Milk Can, Fat Cats and Fish Are Jumping; you may even win a prize. After some cotton candy, a hot dog and soda, show us your strength on the Komodo High Striker. There's no better way to say farewell to summer than the Komodo Karnival!

Labor Day Fun at Coyote Hills: Spend Labor Day by playing old-fashioned games. There will be a sack race, egg relay, tug-of-war, kick-the-can and other exciting activities. Have a picnic and join in on the fun!

Lawrence Hall of Science: There is always lots to do at this U.C. Berkeley landmark. Pick one of three events currently running till September 1st before the Hall closes for 20 days to make exhibit changes. If your kid loves bugs, then this is the place to be this weekend.

Millbrae Art and Wine Festival: If you have yet to make this annual event, well here is another chance! 44 years in the making, the Millbrae Art and Wine Festival showcases more than 200 vendors and artists and holds something for everyone from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Niles Antique Faire: On Sunday, August 31st, the 50th annual Antique Faire begins with the popular pancake breakfast at 5:00 am for early bird customers. With over 200 vendors showcasing charming antiques and memorabilia, from antique jewelry to vintage clothing, there's something for everyone. Don't miss the henna art and face painters either! 6:00 am to 4:00 pm on Niles Blvd. in Fremont between G and J Streets.

Pilgrim Soul Forge Harvest Fair: Head over to Alameda and enjoy local artisans and food vendors at this 4th annual fall fair. Watch blacksmiths at work or listen to a little blues and let the kids dance on the 30th from 12-6 pm.

Sausalito Art Festival: Take the family to Sausalito for this granddaddy of San Francisco Bay Area Art Festivals. This annual event is now in its 62nd year of providing fun for all bay area residents. On either Sunday or Monday, enjoy a day of food, music and more than 200 artist's works on display.

The Scottish Games: The 149th Scottish Highland Gathering and Games welcomes the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band and 1st Battalion Scots Guards to the Alameda County Fairgrounds.

Shakespeare in the Park: Head to the Presidio in San Francisco for a free showing of Shakespear's Taming of the Shew. Performed all weekend by members of Shakespeare in the Park, these free performances are a great way to be transformed back in time.

Star Wars at the Disney Store: Visit the Disney Store for some Star Wars fun. Call store to confirm details. 11:30 am on Sunday.

Treasure Island Flea Market: If you and the family enjoy hunting through flea market treasures then don't miss out on this once a month market on Treasure Island. Kids under 12 are free, $3 entry for others and bring the dog - they are welcome too on the 30th and 31st.

Whimsical Wind Catcher at the Lakeshore Learning Store: Summertime fun can last forever with a whimsical wind catcher - free craft for ages 3 and up. 

Williams & Sonoma: If you have a junior chef in the making, then head to any Williams & Sonoma. They offer a free "Junior Chef" class for kids ages 9-13. The next class is on the 30th and they will be making pizza dough from scratch.