Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2015
It’s that time of year when banjo music fills the air in Golden Gate Park. The exceedingly popular (and free) festival once again features an all-star lineup of bluegrass, folk and rock royalty. Paul Weller, Emmylou Harris, Robyn Hitchcock and many others fill the bill. Friday – Sunday, 10/2-4, 11am-7pm.

2015 Oktoberfest
If you couldn’t make it to Munich this fall, then try the Bay Area’s closest approximation with a giant beer garden and German food feast in Mountain View. Live oompah bands and lots of contests are on top. Saturday – Sunday, 10/3-4, 11am-7pm.

41st annual Oakland Black Cowboy Parade & Festival
The only festival of its kind in the US, the annual black cowboy parade in Oakland features everything you’d expect in a cowboy fest, except it’s totally urban. Live music, horse and pony rides, and food vendors round out the event. Saturday, 10/3, 10am-5pm.

St. Francis Day Blessing of the Animals
It’s bring your pet to church day, as the good reverend fathers will put a blessing upon Fido and Fifi in the spirit of St. Francis, the patron saint of San Francisco. Sunday, 10/4, 12:30pm, Grace Cathedral.

Castro Street Fair
Expect the campy, the outrageous, and plenty of fun of the Castro variety. Three stages feature music and entertainment, while the parade of costumed attendees will provide plenty of street theater. Sunday, 10/4, 11am-6pm.