Summer in Mountain View cannot be beat. The sun stays around longer, the evenings fill with music, and the Mountain View community comes alive with events that celebrate everything we love about this place. From laid-back concerts in the plaza to lively downtown festivals, there’s something happening every week. It all builds toward one of the biggest and most beloved celebrations of the year: the Mountain View Art & Wine Festival.
This year marks the 52nd annual Art & Wine Festival, a milestone that speaks to just how deeply it’s woven into the fabric of our town. What started as a local gathering has grown into a major event that draws people from all over the Bay Area and beyond, while still keeping its welcoming, hometown feel.
Mountain View Art & Wine Festival
Date: September 6–7, 2025
Time: 11am to 7pm Saturday | 10am to 6pm Sunday
Location: Downtown Mountain View
Over the course of two days, Castro Street becomes a celebration of creativity and community. With over 350 booths featuring handcrafted goods, home decor, wearable art, and more, there’s plenty to explore. Whether you’re picking up a one-of-a-kind piece or just strolling with friends, the atmosphere is full of discovery.
Music plays a large role in the festival too, with multiple stages showcasing a mix of genres. There’s something for every taste, from upbeat cover bands to jazz ensembles to world music performers. Pair that with vast food and drink options, including local wines and craft brews, and you’ve got a weekend that appeals to all the senses.
Families are especially welcome. The kids' zone is packed with activities, games, and live performances tailored for younger audiences. It's a safe, engaging space where children can play, create, and be entertained. No wonder this festival has been voted Best Festival by Metro readers year after year.
But you don’t have to wait until September to start enjoying everything our city has to offer. Mountain View is buzzing all summer long, with a steady lineup of concerts, family events, and outdoor fun. Here’s a look at what’s coming up.
Music on Castro: A Midweek Tradition
Every Wednesday evening from April through October, Downtown Mountain View offers a dose of midweek magic. Music on Castro brings live performances from a variety of local and regional musicians, turning the heart of downtown into a cozy, cultural gathering space.
Time: 5 to 6:45 p.m.
Location: Castro Street, Downtown Mountain View
The music ranges from smooth jazz to acoustic jams and Latin rhythms, creating a relaxed vibe perfect for an after-work stroll or casual dinner. Shops and restaurants stay lively, with many offering patio seating so you can enjoy a meal while listening to the music drift through the air.
July
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July 2: Norman Kahan
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July 9: Jim Witzel Quartet
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July 16: Ted's Acoustic Jams
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July 23: Lavender Fields
August
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August 6: Mr. Jones & Me
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August 13: David Landon
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August 20: Lavender Fields
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August 27: Vocals by David Johnson
September
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September 3: Norman Kahan
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September 10: Jim Witzel Quartet
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September 17: Lavender Fields
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September 24: Ted’s Acoustic Jams
For residents and visitors alike, these evenings offer a chance to unwind and reconnect. Whether you're grabbing gelato, popping into a local gallery, or just people-watching, it's a simple joy that reflects the charm of Mountain View.
Concerts on the Plaza: Sixteen Nights of Live Music
If you’re looking for more music, Concerts on the Plaza has you covered. Taking place every Friday evening from June through September, this series brings a wide range of bands to Civic Center Plaza.
Time: 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Civic Center Plaza, 500 Castro Street
From funk and soul to classic rock and tribute bands, these performances turn the plaza into a lively social scene. Bring your lawn chair or a picnic blanket, or grab a bite from a nearby restaurant and settle in for an evening of great music and good company.
July
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July 11: East Side Funk (Jazz-Funk Originals)
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July 18: Daze On the Green (Party Covers)
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July 25: Dolce Musica (R&B/Soul)
August
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August 1: Sounds of Selena (Latin Tribute)
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August 8: RPM Band (Rock and Roll Dance)
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August 15: The China Cats (Grateful Dead Tribute)
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August 22: The Houserockers (Rock and Soul)
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August 29: False Bottom Band (Bluegrass/Rock/Country)
September
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September 5: The Peelers (Pop Mashups)
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September 12: Fog City Swampers (CCR/Rock)
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September 19: Turning Point (Classic Rock)
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September 26: The Drifting Cowboys (Hank Williams Tribute)
These concerts are more than just music—they’re community nights. You’ll see kids dancing in front of the stage, neighbors catching up, and newcomers feeling welcomed into the fold. It’s this shared spirit that makes Mountain View such a special place to call home.
KidStock: Big Fun for Little Ones
Parents, mark your calendars! KidStock is designed just for kids, with an action-packed morning of music, crafts, games, and interactive performances.
Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Location: Civic Center Plaza, 500 Castro Street
Date: July 19
Each date features different entertainers and hands-on experiences, keeping things fresh and exciting for little ones. It’s the kind of event where children are encouraged to explore, dance, and create. If you have young kids—or grandkids visiting for the weekend—KidStock is a must.
Summer Outdoor Movie Night Series: Film Fun Under the Stars
What’s better than a summer evening picnic? One that ends with a movie under the stars. Mountain View’s Summer Outdoor Movie Night Series brings family-friendly films to local parks every Friday night from July 11 through August 15.
Movies begin at 8:30 p.m. or dark.
Come early for pre-show fun including yard games, bubbles, and a prize wheel.
Movie Schedule
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July 11 – Cuesta Park: Inside Out 2
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July 18 – Sylvan Park: Transformers One
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July 25 – Stevenson Park: Despicable Me 4
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August 1 – Whisman Park: Moana 2
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August 8 – Eagle Park: Paddington in Peru
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August 15 – Rengstorff Park: The Wild Robot
Bring blankets, low-back chairs, snacks, and your favorite movie buddies. The setting is relaxed and welcoming, and kids especially love the chance to stay up a little later for this fun summer treat.
The Spirit of Summer in Mountain View
What ties all of these events together is the sense of belonging they create. Whether you're dancing on a Friday, singing along on Wednesday, or letting your kids burn off energy on a Saturday morning, you're participating in something much bigger than just an event. You’re part of a community that values connection, creativity, and celebration.
I encourage you to try something new this summer, visit a park you haven’t been to, check out a band you’ve never heard before, or invite a neighbor to join you downtown. That’s what these events are for: to bring us all a little closer, one shared experience at a time.
As we count down the days to the Mountain View Art & Wine Festival in September, let’s enjoy every concert, every movie, every magical evening in between.
See you out there!
Living in Mountain View, California
Looking to buy or sell real estate in Mountain View or beyond in Silicon Valley? Contact Tori Atwell today. Tori Atwell has sold over 1 billion in real estate sales since 1986 and would be happy to put her experience to work for you! Considered “Downtown Mountain View’s Most Experienced Real Estate Agent” and voted by residents as a “Nextdoor Neighborhood Fave” Realtor, Tori is committed to providing her clients with bespoke representation, customized marketing strategies, and white-glove service.
Tori Atwell, Broker Associate
Phone: 650.996.0123
Email: [email protected]
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