The San Mateo September Arts & Culture Fest is more than just an event—it’s a vibrant celebration of local talent, diverse cultures, and community spirit. Co-hosted by the San Mateo County Office of Arts and Culture and the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce, this annual festival promises to deliver an unforgettable experience right in the heart of downtown San Mateo.
With live performances, art exhibitions, and culinary delights from around the world, the festival transforms the streets into a lively hub of creativity, entertainment, and fun for the whole family. What sets the September Arts & Culture Fest apart is its dedication to showcasing local artists, musicians, and craft-makers, giving them a platform to engage with the community and share their unique talents.
Why the September Arts & Culture Fest is a Must-Attend Event
The September Arts & Culture Fest is not just another street festival—it’s a celebration of diversity, creativity, and community engagement. Whether you’re a long-time San Mateo resident or a visitor to the Peninsula, this event offers something for everyone. Here’s what you can expect:
- Live Music from Local Talent: The festival boasts a diverse lineup of musicians from the Peninsula and beyond. Genres range from folk and jazz to rock and classical, ensuring there’s something for every musical taste. These performances, set against the backdrop of San Mateo’s charming downtown, create an atmosphere of unity and joy.
- Art Exhibits and Craft-Making: At the heart of the September Arts & Culture Fest is the incredible artistry on display. Local painters, sculptors, photographers, and craft-makers present their work, allowing festival-goers to experience the rich artistic culture that thrives in San Mateo County. Visitors can browse through an eclectic mix of handmade goods, from ceramics and jewelry to paintings and home decor.
- Cultural Performances: The festival celebrates the multiculturalism of the Peninsula with performances that highlight the traditions of various cultural groups. Traditional dances, musical showcases, and theatrical performances bring the world’s rich cultural heritage to life, all within a few city blocks.
- Global Cuisine: Food lovers are in for a treat as vendors offer a range of cuisines representing cultures from every corner of the globe. From Mexican tacos to Japanese sushi and everything in between, this event allows attendees to savor authentic dishes that reflect the diverse community of San Mateo.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The September Arts & Culture Fest ensures that families feel welcome. With interactive workshops, face painting, and games, children of all ages can participate in a range of fun activities designed to inspire creativity and cultural appreciation.
Local Musicians Take the Stage
At the September Arts & Culture Fest, music plays a central role in bringing the community together. The festival features a dynamic lineup of local musicians, each bringing their unique sound and energy to the event. Whether you’re a fan of indie rock, jazz, or acoustic performances, you’ll find the live music experience to be a highlight of the festival. Supporting local musicians helps strengthen the artistic community and promotes the vibrant cultural scene in San Mateo.
Craft-Makers and Artisans: A Showcase of Local Talent
The September Arts & Culture Fest is the perfect place to discover local artisans and craft-makers. With booths set up throughout downtown San Mateo, attendees can shop for handmade goods, meet the artists behind the work, and even watch live demonstrations of craft-making techniques. This direct interaction with local artists provides a deeper connection to their work and fosters an appreciation for the creative process.
Local painters, photographers, and sculptors offer their pieces for sale, allowing attendees to take home a piece of the festival. From handcrafted jewelry to custom-made pottery, the range of items is as diverse as the artists themselves.
Savor the World with Global Cuisine
Food is an essential part of the September Arts & Culture Fest, and the festival’s international food vendors never disappoint. This culinary journey takes you across continents, offering a wide variety of dishes that reflect the cultural diversity of the Peninsula. Whether you crave the bold flavors of Indian curries, the freshness of Mediterranean salads, or the rich spices of Thai street food, there’s something for every palate.
Alongside the global cuisine, local wineries and breweries provide festival-goers with the perfect opportunity to sample some of the region’s finest beverages. From crisp Chardonnays to refreshing IPAs, the selection is sure to impress even the most discerning connoisseurs.
A Family-Friendly Affair
While the September Arts & Culture Fest offers plenty of entertainment for adults, it also ensures that children have a fantastic time. Interactive workshops and creative stations are designed to keep younger attendees engaged, while activities like face painting and balloon art add an extra layer of fun. Families can explore the festival together, making it a great way to spend a day outdoors in San Mateo’s vibrant downtown district.
Free and Open to the Public
One of the many reasons the September Arts & Culture Fest stands out as the Peninsula’s top street festival is that it’s free and open to the public. No need to buy tickets—just bring yourself, your friends, and your family for a day of fun and discovery. The open streets of downtown San Mateo offer a pedestrian-friendly environment where you can explore at your own pace, taking in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the festival.
How to Get to the Festival
The September Arts & Culture Fest is conveniently located in downtown San Mateo, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re driving, taking public transportation, or biking, there are plenty of options for getting to the festival.
- By Car: Downtown San Mateo is just a short drive from nearby cities, with ample parking options available in public lots and street parking. Be sure to arrive early to secure a spot!
- By Public Transportation: The festival is easily accessible by Caltrain, with the San Mateo station just a short walk away. Several bus routes also serve the downtown area.
- By Bike: San Mateo is a bike-friendly city, and the festival’s central location makes it easy to reach on two wheels.
A Celebration of Community and Culture
The September Arts & Culture Fest is more than just an event—it’s a reflection of the vibrant and diverse community that makes San Mateo so special. From the local talent on display to the global flavors in the food stalls, this festival offers an immersive experience that celebrates creativity, culture, and connection.
Whether you’re here for the live music, the art exhibits, the food, or the family-friendly activities, the festival offers a chance to connect with the community and appreciate the rich cultural tapestry that defines San Mateo County.
