Martinez, CA, is a small city with a big presence. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views from the city’s strategic location on the south side of the Carquinez Strait in the San Francisco Bay Area. As the county seat of Contra Costa County and an early player in California’s formative years, it is known for its many historic buildings. In addition to the city’s year-round attractions, this article is a guide for spring festivals and events in Martinez for visitors and residents to enjoy.
SWAN Day Outdoor Arts and Crafts Festival
- Saturday, April 14, 2012
- 10:00am – 4:00pm
- Old Train Depot Parking Lot, Ferry Street, Martinez
- Free Event
- martinezarts.org
SWAN (Support Women Artists Now) Day is celebrated internationally during March and April. The Martinez Arts Association is sponsoring a festive afternoon with live music, belly dancing, and over 50 participating artists, including Performance Art, Photography, Painting/Visual Arts, Sculpture, Crafts/Textiles. Come to the event and enjoy a full block of displays honoring the creative power of women artists.
Bay Area Craft Beer Festival
- Saturday, April 21, 2012
- Noon – 4:00pm
- Historic Cannery District on the Waterfront Park on North Court St., Downtown Martinez
- Tickets $35 in advance/$45 at gate, if available (Designated driver tickets available: $5 advance/$10 gate)
- Notes: ID required. No one under 21 admitted. No pets allowed. Tickets are non-refundable. No outside alcohol permitted.
- www.bayareacraftbeerfestival.com
First held in 2010, beer lovers are learning that this is the event to attend. The beautiful location holds a triple treat for attendees: live music entertainment, beer tasting offered by over 30 microbreweries, and food from local restaurants available for purchase. Plus a commemorative glass to take home. There is ample free parking available since the meters don’t operate on weekends in Martinez, and visitors also have the option of taking Amtrak to the Martinez station or BART to the North Concord station where a free shuttle to the event will be operating.
John Muir Birthday – Earth Day Celebration
- Saturday, April 21, 2012
- 10:00am – 4:00pm
- John Muir Historical Site, 4202 Alhambra Ave., Martinez
- Free Event
- www.johnmuirassociation.org
The John Muir Association and the National Park Service bring a fun afternoon to celebrate John Muir’s 174th birthday and the 42nd observation of Earth Day. This final listing in the spring events guide begins with a procession of bagpipes, and through the day the whole family can enjoy over 50 informative and interactive exhibits and activities, including live music entertainment, nature walks, a chance to stroll through Muir’s Victorian home, Junior Ranger projects, and silent auctions. Hear stories by “John Muir” in costume and enjoy a slice of birthday cake. Food and beverages are available to purchase. Ample free parking is available. Plan to attend rain or shine.
