Top 7 Things To Do in the Summer

04/12/24

Start planning your epic summer vacation in Pleasant Hill with this list of the best festivals, activities and things to do around the area.

1. Kick of the Season with the Sunset by the Lake Summer Concerts

Walk around downtown City Hall Lawn and attend the summer concert series with a waterfront view, Sunday evenings from 6-8 pm. Don’t forget to pack your lawn chair so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the sounds of the season.

2. Memorial Day Weekend Festivities

Start the weekend with a salute to veterans and take a short walk from Pleasant Hill Downtown over to Monument Plaza. Visit the 45 foot high Soldiers Memorial Monument, erected in 1927 to honor the 6,341 citizens, including 77 dead, of Contra Costa County who served in WWI.

For a nearby day trip, drive to San Francisco and spend some time in the Mission District during the annual Carnaval Celebration. One of the largest festivals of the year, this two-day event is on Saturday and Sunday. You'll find live music, traditional dishes, dancing in the streets, and a vibrant parade celebrating Latin American and Caribbean arts and traditions.

3. Take a Stroll Through Dinosaur Hill Park

Strap on your sneakers and get ready to be awed by the breathtaking views of Mt. Diablo. With 13 acres of wide open space, hiking trails, and scenic views, you’ll find solace in this small outdoor oasis.

Pro-tip: Locals find this hidden gem to be one of the best spots to watch 4th of July fireworks.

4. Get Patriotic During 4th of July

From parades and live performances to baseball and fireworks, Pleasant Hill is THE place to be during this All-American weekend. Learn More

5. Bring the Family to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

No summer vacation is complete without a trip to the amusement park. Luckily Pleasant Hill is just a stone's throw away from one of the best on the West Coast. Pack up the family and head to Discovery Kingdom for a day filled with roller coasters, bumper cars, and animal attractions.

6. Visit a Nearby Vineyard for a Wine Tasting

Rosé all day, anyone? One of the best ways to cool off during the summer heat is with a chilled bottle of vino. Just a short drive from Napa Valley, Sonoma, Livermore, and Shadowbrook Winery, Pleasant Hill is the perfect location to make your home base during a wine weekend getaway.

7. Dance the Day Away at the Brews & Blues Festival

Enjoy two-days of craft beer tasting, local food vendors, dancing and an incredibly talented live music line up of blues musicians. Learn More

Explore More