Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

2nd Grand Community Chanukah Festival in Clayton Dec. 21

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Includes Grand Menorah Lighting

By Chabad of Concord

We are excited to announce the 2nd Grand Community Chanukah Festival in Clayton!
We are thankful to have an incredible lineup of entertainment, officials, crafts, and Chanukah excitement that you won’t want to miss.

Chabad of Concord and The City of Clayton have joined forces to bring you a Grand Menorah Lighting & LED juggling show event that promises to be unforgettable! So, get ready to celebrate with us as a community and show your Jewish pride and unity!

Sunday, Dec 21, 4:00 PM

At The Grove – 6110 Center Street in Clayton

  • Celebrate Jewish pride and unity this Chanukah with local dignitaries, leaders, and community!
  • Enjoy latkes, “The Best Sufganiyot”, hot chocolate & More
  • Live Show
  • Music videos
  • Crafts
  • Raffles
  • More

Raffle ticket provided with RSVP.

Chanukah is the Jewish eight-day, wintertime “festival of lights,” celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special prayers and fried foods. The Hebrew word Chanukah means “dedication,” and is thus named because it celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple. Chanukah begins on the eve of Kislev 25 and continues for eight days.

Looking forward to a grand time celebrating together!

Free admission- Please RSVP Jewishconcord.com/Clayton.

Special thanks ABL Health Care, Simcha Sisters, the City of Clayton and PJ Library for your partnership!

Chanuka Celebration and 7th annual Grand Community Menorah Lighting in Concord Dec. 18

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By Chabad of Concord

We are thrilled to announce that the 7th annual Grand Community Menorah Lighting is finally here!

This year, we are thankful to have an incredible lineup of entertainment, officials, crafts and Chanukah excitement that you won’t want to miss.

Chabad of Concord and The Veranda have joined forces to bring you a grand Menorah lighting event that promises to be unforgettable! So, get ready to celebrate with us as a community and show your Jewish pride and unity!

Thursday, December 18, 4:30 PM

At The Veranda – 2025 Diamond Blvd., Concord

  • Celebrate Jewish pride and unity this Chanukah with local dignitaries, leaders, and community!
  • Enjoy Chanukah treats
  • Live Performance by the award-winning Goofball
  • Music videos
  • Crafts
  • Raffle

Raffle ticket provided with RSVP.

Chanukah is the Jewish eight-day, wintertime “festival of lights,” celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special prayers and fried foods. The Hebrew word Chanukah means “dedication,” and is thus named because it celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple. Chanukah begins on the eve of Kislev 25 and continues for eight days.

Looking forward to a grand time celebrating together!

Free admission- Please RSVP Jewishconcord.com/grand.

Special thanks ABL Health Care & Simcha Sisters for your sponsorship!

For more information visit www.jewishconcord.com or www.facebook.com/chabadofconcord.

Annual Chanukah Community Festival in Brentwood Dec. 14

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Includes Grand Menorah Lighting Ceremony

By Chabad of the Delta

Get ready to light up the night! The Chanukah Festival is happening in Brentwood, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, and you won’t want to miss this incredible lineup of fun, food and festivities!

DELICIOUS FOOD: Indulge in traditional, piping-hot latkes and warm, fluffy sufganiyot (donuts)! Plus, keep cozy with our FREE Hot Drink Bar (Hot Cocoa & Spiced Cider)!

AMAZING ACTIVITIES: Test your speed at the Flickering Flame Game (Menorah Whack-a-Mole!), take a spin on the Human Dreidel, and get a festive Glitter Tattoo!

TECH CORNER: See the future of the holiday with a 3D Printed Dreidel Demo!

MAIN STAGE: Join us for the hilarious and astonishing Al Skinner Comedy Magic show at 5:30 PM, followed by the Grand Menorah Lighting Ceremony!

RAFFLE ALERT: Enter to win a one-of-a-kind 3D-printed dreidel! Find the raffle table near the Chanukah Gift Shop. Winners announced after the Menorah Lighting!

Chanukah is the Jewish eight-day, wintertime “festival of lights,” celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special prayers and fried foods. The Hebrew word Chanukah means “dedication,” and is thus named because it celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple. Chanukah begins on the eve of Kislev 25 and continues for eight days.

Join us at the Brentwood Community Center at 35 Oak Street in Downtown.

Don’t wait! RSVP at www.JewishDelta.com/Chanukah.

For more information visit www.facebook.com/ChabadoftheDelta.

Entertainment, Midway of Fun carnival during Walnut Festival at fairgrounds in Antioch Oct. 16-19

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It’s festival time! Who’s ready to spin, soar, and scream this weekend?

The Walnut Festival lands October 16–19 with rides, games and all your fair food favorites!

Contra Costa Event Center (Fairgrounds) at 1201 W. 10th Street in Antioch.

Weather may affect hours — stay tuned for updates!

Fast, easy payments with self-service & contactless options!

The Walnut Festival has temporarily relocated to the fairgrounds while Heather Farms Park undergoes a large remodel. (See related article)

Paid advertisement.

West County: 7th Annual Bay Front Run and Festival in Hercules Oct. 19

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5K, 10K & 1 Mile Run/Walk and Kids Fun Run

Come for the run, stay for the fun!

By Bay Front Chamber of Commerce

Join us Sunday, October 19 from 11AM–3PM at Bayfront Blvd. in Hercules for the 2025 Bay Front Festival — a day full of community, music, and celebration!

  • Enjoy live local entertainment
  • Support local artisans & small businesses
  • Indulge in delicious bites from food trucks and vendors
  • Fun, Free & Family-Friendly!

Hosted by Bay Front Chamber and City of Hercules.

7th Annual Bay Front Run

Join us on the beautiful Bay Front trail in Hercules for the 7th Annual Bay Front Run to support our local schools.

5K, 10K & 1 Mile Run/Walk and Kids Fun Run. All participants in person & virtual registered by 9/20 will receive an event t-shirt. The first 300 to register will receive a finisher medal. The race will begin and end at Bayfront Blvd. in Hercules. Run along the Bay Front Trail where you can expect beautiful views and a gentle breeze.

Every step you take helps build a brighter future for our students.

Register now: bayfrontrun.com

Come for the run, stay for the fun! The Bay Front Festival will follow directly after the run.

RACE TIMES

8:30 am 5K, 10K & 1 Mile
10:30 am Kids Fun Run (ages 3-6)
Kids Fun Run (ages 7-10)

Race Course: The race begins at Sanderling & Bayfront, it runs along Bayfront Blvd to the Bay Trail entrance at John Muir Pkwy. the run continues along the Bay Trail thru Hercules to Rodeo. The turn -about is at the end of the Bay Trail in Rodeo. Those doing a 10K will do a double loop.

Timing: 5K & 10K Run will be chip timed/scored and results will be posted after the event. Bib must be worn to be timed/scored.

5K & 10K Awards: Top Female & Male

Parking: on Bayfront Blvd. from Railroad to Promenade & on John Muir Parkway

PACKET PICKUP

EARLY PACKET PICKUP
Saturday, 10/18 – 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
The Dylan Apartments (formally The Grand)
2200 John Muir Parkway, Hercules
REGISTRATIONS WILL ALSO BE TAKEN DURING EARLY PACKET PICK UP

PACKET PICK UP AND LAST DAY (race day) REGISTRATION
Sunday, 10/19 at Sanderling & Bayfront Blvd., Hercules
5K, 10K & 1 Mile 7:30 a.m. – 8:15 a.m.
Kids Fun Run 9:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. (Ages 3 – 10)

ENTRY FEES

5K, 10K & 1 Mile Run/Walk $35 – In Person ~ $35 – Virtual
Kid Fun Run $15 – In Person
The first 325 to register will receive a Finisher Medal.
Registration fees are non-refundable but can be transferred to another individual.

For more information about the Bay Front Chamber of Commerce visit http://www.bayfrontchamber.com.

Amtrak to run special trains to Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park 2025 Rededication Celebration, Oct. 11

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Photos: Amtrak San Joaquins and CA State Parks

Celebrating seven years of tradition, trains will once again bring visitors to honor site central to California’s African American history

Established in 1908, it was the state’s first self-governed Black township

By Harlo Pippenger, Consultant, Amtrak San Joaquins

(Stockton, CA) – Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park is holding its annual celebratory Rededication event on Saturday, October 11 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. In partnership, Amtrak San Joaquins has scheduled a special stop at the park for multiple trains, bookable at exclusive half-price “Allensworth fares.”

Travelers from Northern California, the Bay Area, or the Central Valley are invited to experience a scenic day trip aboard the Amtrak San Joaquins, arriving directly at the gates of this historic landmark and celebration. Attendees are encouraged to book now to secure their seats and to enjoy further savings by combining discounts, as detailed on the Amtrak San Joaquins Deals webpage.

Hosted by California State Parks, the Annual Rededication of Col. Allensworth State Historic Park honors the park’s original dedication in 1976. The event will feature food trucks, arts and crafts, guided tours of historic buildings, performances of music and dance, interactive experiences with time-period docents, and remarks from descendants of Colonel Allen Allensworth.

This year’s special Rededication train marks the seventh anniversary of Amtrak San Joaquins’ service to the Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park Rededication Celebration. Since that first ride in 2018, ridership to the event has grown dramatically, from just 97 passengers to more than 300 in 2024 and over 500 individuals traveling by train to the most recent Juneteenth 2025 Festival. Each year, more Californians are discovering the ease and joy of traveling by train to celebrate this historic community and the lasting impact it has had on the state’s heritage. With direct service and exclusive discounted fares, Amtrak San Joaquins is making it easier than ever for riders from across the state to be part of this meaningful celebration.

Founded in 1908 by Colonel Allen Allensworth, a former enslaved man, the town was designed to be a self-sustaining community where African Americans could live, work, and thrive. Today, you can witness the legacy of this trailblazing community come alive with captivating re-enactments, storytelling, and tours of the lovingly restored and reconstructed early 20th century buildings. Step into the Colonel’s house, walk through the halls of the historic schoolhouse and explore the church and library for an inspiring journey through a pivotal moment in history.

“California State Parks is proud to celebrate seven years of partnership with Amtrak San Joaquins in bringing visitors directly to Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park,” said Lori Wear, California State Parks. “This special train service has helped thousands of Californians experience the rich history and enduring legacy of Colonel Allensworth in an accessible, affordable, and memorable way. We’re beyond excited for this year and continuing this progress into the future.”

The southbound trains running for the event include trains 702 (10:55am arrival), 710 (11:54am arrival), and 712 (2:54 arrival). Northbound trains include 713 (8:56am arrival), 715 (12:56pm arrival), 717 (2:56pm arrival). When purchasing train tickets, a discount will automatically be applied. If eligible, riders can then combine this reduced ticket with additional savings regularly available which include:

  • Infants under 2 years of age ride for free
  • Children 2-12 years old ride half-price every day
  • Seniors (62+ years of age) receive 15% off
  • Veterans & active military members receive 15% off
  • Disabled riders save 15% off
  • View deals

Visitors attending the Rededication Celebration via the Amtrak San Joaquins trains will arrive at the Allensworth station (CNL), which will serve as a special stop for this event. Upon arrival, a complimentary 35-passenger shuttle provided by Tulare County Area Transit will transport riders between the train platform and the historic schoolhouse. Typically, a whistle stop available only to pre-booked groups, the Allensworth station (CNL) will be fully activated for travelers on October 11, offering a rare and seamless opportunity to experience this historic park by rail.

Train tickets to Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park can be booked online at the Colonel Allensworth landing page or contact Carmen Setness, community outreach coordinator for San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC), at csetness@sjrrc.com.

About Allensworth State Historic Park

The town of Allensworth is located in the heart of the Central Valley, about 30 miles north of Bakersfield. Boasting a rich history that is of interest to students, families, history buffs, minority community organizations, and anyone else looking to spend a fun day exploring the historic community and its restored buildings. In 1908, Allensworth was established as a town founded, financed and governed by African Americans. There were a series of challenges impeding the town’s long-term survival, but it is celebrated as a key historical icon. In 1974 California State Parks purchased the land in order to maintain it as a site for visitors to learn and explore the Colonel’s house, historic schoolhouse, Baptist church, and library.

About the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) Since July 2015, SJJPA has been responsible for the management and administration of Amtrak San Joaquins. SJJPA is governed by Board Members representing each of the ten (10) Member Agencies along the 365-mile San Joaquins Corridor. For more information on SJJPA see http://www.sjjpa.com.

Amtrak San Joaquins is Amtrak’s 6th busiest route with 18 train stations throughout the Central Valley and Bay Area, providing a safe, comfortable and reliable way to travel throughout California. Amtrak San Joaquins is currently running six daily round-trips. In addition to the train service, Amtrak San Joaquins Thruway buses provide connecting service to 135 destinations in California and Nevada including Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Napa Valley, Las Vegas and Reno.

13th Heart of Oakley Festival Saturday, Sept. 20

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Music, dance, food, vendor booths and more!

By City of Oakley Recreation Department

We are excited to celebrate our 13th Heart of Oakley Festival happening on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 11AM to 4PM in Civic Center Plaza and on Main Street from Vintage Parkway to Norcross!

Heart of Oakley Festival is an annual open-air market that brings local makers, food trucks, non-profits, families, and community members together. Join us as we highlight local businesses and community members during this exciting event!

This year Project 4 Band takes the stage with local dance groups throughout the day. The beer garden will be operated by local non-profit East County All Star Fundraising. Additionally, we will have a FREE trackless train, a mechanical bull, and an inflatable mini golf game for families to enjoy. Join us as we highlight local businesses and community members during this exciting event!

Check out our stage schedule:

10:50am: Studio 55 Ukulele

11:05am: Jabris Rucker Children’s Dance

11:20am: Project 4 Band

12:05pm: Brentwood Blaze Cheer

12:20pm: Step 2 This Dance

12:35pm: Project 4 Band

1:30pm: Stepz Dance Fitness Studio

1:45pm: East County Performing Arts

2:00pm: Project 4 Band

3:00pm: Ballet Folklorico Jaracue

3:15pm: Hiphop-Natyam Dance Academy

3:30pm: Freedom High School Band

Wondering where to park for Heart of Oakley tomorrow?
Parking Lot #1 – Oakley Mercantile Lot
Parking Lot #2 – Oakley Elementary School Lot

Walnut Festival relocating to Contra Costa Event Park in Antioch

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October 16th-19th

The 89th Annual Walnut Festival is right around the corner!

Due to a large remodel of Heather Farm Park we’ve had to relocate for a few years while this is done, the festival has a NEW LOCATION! Contra Costa Event Park (fairgrounds) at 1201 W 10th Street in Antioch.

This year’s festival will be held October 16th-19th.

Admission: $15/person

6yrs and younger, 65 years and older and Military with ID get in free
Parking: $10/car

All you can ride unlimited wristbands: $40/person – EVERYONE RIDING MUST HAVE A PAID WRISTBAND OR INDIVIDUAL TICKETS. WITHOUT ONE OF THESE YOU WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO RIDE.

VENDOR APPLICATIONS ARE UP ON THE WEBSITE.

The Purpose of the Walnut Festival Association

​For the past 89 years, the non-profit Walnut Festival Association has attracted the most dedicated volunteers, from all walks of life, who join together to serve Contra Costa County by raising funds through community events. The money raised from these annual family entertainment events is donated back into the community to support recreational, charitable, and educational programs and facilities. The Walnut Festival Association events also provide a means for service and charitable groups to raise money to support their specific organizations.

It is the purpose of the Walnut Festival Association, a 501c non-profit corporation, to raise funds for distribution to educational, recreational, artistic, civic, and charitable causes.

  1. To provide a vehicle for other non-profit organizations to raise funds for their redistribution throughout the year.
  2. To produce quality events for the benefit of the residents of Walnut Creek and the surrounding areas, and to foster a sense of community involvement.

As Walnut Creek has grown, and suburban developments have replaced walnut groves, the Walnut Festival Association has maintained the tradition of producing fundraising events for the benefit of the community. Locations for the event have changed over the years from the center of town to Civic Park and finally, in 1976, to Heather Farm Park, where it has been held the third Thursday after the first Monday in September.

For more information visit www.Thewalnutfestival.org.

Happy Bear-thday, California! Celebrate 175 years of Statehood Sept. 6 & 9

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At the CA Museum, State Library and 175th Birthday Block Party in front of the State Capitol in Sacramento

By California Department of Parks and Recreation

As America nears the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, California is approaching its own significant milestone – 175 years of shaping the future. The State is hosting three events, one on Saturday, September 6 and two on Tuesday, September 9, all in Sacramento.

California Museum’s Statehood Celebration, Sept.  6

12PM-4PM

California Museum

1020 O Street, Sacramento, CA 95814

Celebrate California’s 175th birthday with a free, fun-filled day at the California Museum! Explore rare historic artifacts—including the original 1849 California Constitution—enjoy live music, dance performances, hands-on crafts, a film screening.

Don’t miss this one-day-only event packed with family-friendly activities and special moments honoring the Golden State’s rick multicultural history. This event is free thanks to the success of our Big Day of Giving campaign­— thank you for your support!

Featuring:

  • Chance to see both the English and Spanish versions of the original 1849 California Constitution, displayed in partnership with the California State Archives
  • Access to all current exhibitions at the California Museum, including a limited-time display of historic documents and artifacts highlighting select signers of the 1849 Constitution, courtesy of the California State Archives and California State Library
  • A presentation by Professor Damien Bacich: “California’s Spanish-Mexican Roots: Life Before and After Statehood“
  • Live music by Los Californios and Renegade Orchestra
  • Dance class taught by Renegrade Orchestra
  • Screening of the short PBS SoCal film Borderlands
  • Complimentary “bear-thday” cupcakes
  • Family-friendly activites and crafts

Reserve your free admission ticket to guarantee access to the California Statehood Day Celebration at the California Museum.

Walk-ins are welcome as space allows. For more information visit California Statehood Day Celebration – California Museum.

State Library hosts California’s 175th Anniversary Celebration

11AM-1PM

Library and Courts Building

914 Capitol Mall, Sacramento 3rd Floor

Celebrate both the state’s and the State Library’s 175th anniversary with cake and tours.

This year marks the 175th anniversary of California’s admission to the U.S. as the 31st state. But statehood wasn’t the beginning of the story. Celebrating California is a collection of 175+ stories that highlight California’s unique history and role in the world. The California State Library’s goal is to offer examples of California’s unique character and that of its residents, past and present. That means among the good there will be some bad. For every success story, there’s a failure, a tragedy, an injustice. It’s from these mistakes that we learn and grow stronger together.

Source: California State Library

The State Library is also highlighting books from their curated reading list, counting down to September 9th. You can see the list here or share a story with the State Library that helps define what California means to you.

Join us for a California 175th Anniversary Live Webinar Series with the California State Parks

Explore the diversity and resilience of California through watersheds, redwoods, salmon habitats, and the lifecycle of wildfires.

Join the California State Library and the California State Parks for a live webinar on salmon in the Smith River Watershed on Wednesday, September 17th at 12:00pm! 
Join Kyle Buchanan a California State Parks Interpreter at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park for a live webinar exploring the inspiring voyage that salmon make within one of California’s most pristine areas, the Smith River Watershed. While following this wild journey we will further examine the unique role that these salmon play in fueling this Old Growth Redwood Forest. Kyle is an amazing interpreter who will have you packing your bags to visit Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.
Join the Government Publications Section and the California State Parks for a live webinar on water courses at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park on Thursday, October 9th at 12:00pm! 
Join California State Parks Interpreters Brianna and Will to discover the majestic water courses of Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. Following the devastating 2003 Cedar Fire, this intricate watershed has been pivotal in the park’s ecological recovery. Healthy watersheds promote regrowth and jumpstarting the process of succession in the decades following large disturbances. Approximately 90% of Cuyamaca’s forests were destroyed in the 2003 Cedar Fire, which marked a new era of mega-fires in California. This will be a unique opportunity to view the landscape live as we discuss the dynamic watershed at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.

These programs are free and open to all.

For more information about the State Library visit www.library.ca.gov or www.facebook.com/CAStateLibrary.

Celebrate the Golden State’s 175th Birthday Block Party with California State Parks

In front of the State Capitol in Sacramento

SACRAMENTO— Get ready for a celebration 175 years in the making! On Tuesday, Sept. 9, California State Parks is throwing a birthday block party in front of the State Capitol in Sacramento to celebrate the historic anniversary of California becoming America’s 31st state in 1850.

From 6 to 9 p.m., enjoy music, food trucks, family-friendly activities and a laser display 30 minutes after sunset as Californians come together to celebrate this historic milestone. Partygoers can enjoy free food truck fare, birthday cake, and California-grown treats (while supplies last).

“As we come together to protect rights and safeguard California’s future, we also do so to celebrate the past 175 years that have made this state the global leader that it is today.” – Governor Gavin Newsom

“As we celebrate 175 years of California, we honor the generations who shaped this great state and nurtured a culture of building dreams, innovating, and daring to imagine something better — for all of us! I’m filled with pride in California’s legacy and the enduring promise that our people and our spirit will continue to lead and inspire the world.” – First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom

State Parks staff and volunteers will be dressed in period attire and will engage with partygoers as they interpret the history of the Capitol Building, Admission Day and the state’s rich and diverse past. There will also be opportunities to learn more about California history through hands-on activities from the California State Railroad Museum, Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park (SHP), the State Indian Museum SHP and the Sacramento History Museum.

The block party will showcase the natural and cultural treasures and living history found in California’s 280 state parks, inspiring visitors throughout this 175th year of statehood and beyond. Additional state agencies and departments are expected to participate.

“At California State Parks, we help preserve and celebrate everything that makes the Golden State truly golden,” said State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “Throughout this 175th year of California statehood, I invite all Californians to explore the abundant and diverse places that make up the nation’s largest state park system. It’s all waiting just for you to foster a deep connection with nature, ignite a spirit of exploration, and inspire a passion for California’s shared landscapes, rich histories and enduring legacy.”

Find more events celebrating 175 golden years of statehood at Celebrate.ca.gov.

The California Department of Parks and Recreation, popularly known as State Parks, and the programs supported by its Office of Historic Preservation and divisions of Boating and Waterways and Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation provide for the health, inspiration and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation. Learn more at parks.ca.gov.

Oakley Summer Fest Saturday, June 28

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Enjoy a family-friendly festival of fun with rides, games, food trucks, vendors and live music by The Floorshakers and Special Guest Myron Edwins, plus, DJ Magic Matt of Wild 94.9!

By City of Oakley

We are so excited that Oakley Summer Fest is THIS SATURDAY! We’ll have a kids’ area equipped with inflatable jumpers, a giant slide, trampoline bounce, and more! Be sure to bring $5 cash to purchase a wristband at this event at the Oakley Recreation Tent next to City Hall.

Oakley Summer Fest will be in Civic Center Plaza and on Main Street from Norcross to Vintage Parkway. This event is a daytime five-hour family-friendly festival. This event will have a wide range of activities for attendees – such as 40+ vendors, local food trucks, live music on stage, a giant kids’ zone equipped with rides and games & more!