It’s festival season again. See you at the tall ships.
An exceptional chance to view and tour 32 magnificent historic tall ships hailing from many ports of the world. When looking at the ships pales, cruise down the waterfront for live music, food, and maritime educational activities. Families can also reserve cruises around the bay on certain vessels.
When: Thu.-Sun., 7/27-30, events are at various times but waterfront activities run 11am-5pm Thu.-Sat. and 11am-2pm Sun; All ages; Free-$85 (touring ships is free).
Where: Events take place all over San Francisco’s northeast waterfront, Embarcadero (from Hyde to King Streets), San Francisco; 877-724-5577, festivalofsail.org.
Day Out with Thomas
A longish (about 1.5 hours) drive to the Santa Cruz Mountains is made worth it by the sight of several thousand preschoolers going into Beatlemania-style paroxysms of joy when they see their favorite friendly train pulling in. Take a ride through the trees with Thomas and participate in train-type activities.
When: July 25-27 and Aug 1-3, various times through the day, Age 2+; $18.
Where: Roaring Camp, Graham Hill Road (at Mt. Hermon Road), Felton, 1-866-468-3399 roaringcamprr.com.
The Breakfast Club in Dolores Park
Lie back on a blanket and show your kids what teenage angst was like back in the day as this classic ’80s film unspools for free. The film is mostly clean, but given the pot-smoking scene and some pretty frank talk about Ally Sheedy’s therapist “nailing” her and Judd Nelson’s dad abusing him, you may want to limit this activity to older teens.
When: Sat., 7/26, 8pm, Age 14+; Free.
Where: Dolores Park, 18th St. (at Dolores St.), San Francisco, 415.465.FILM, sfneighborhoodtheater.org.
Berkeley Kite Festival
It’s fun on a string with Japanese kite battles, Taiko drummers, kite ballet, and more high-flying fun. Fledgling flyers can take lessons and learn how to make their own kites.
When: Sat.-Sun., 7/26-27, 11am-5pm; All ages; Free (Parking $10).510.235.5483
Where: Cesar Chavez Park, 11 Spinnaker Way (at Virginia Street), Berkeley; 510-235-5483; highlinekites.com.


