Walkable Castro Street will be transformed into a resplendent sea of people and colorful tents for the 12th Annual presentation of A La Carte & Art; a vibrant, multiethnic celebration of the arts. The open-air festival will feature two full days of attractions with live music (rock/jazz/world beat), a juried art show with 250 craftspeople exhibiting their latest wares, festive food, and drink with premium wines, microbrews and margaritas, a farmers’ market with fresh seasonal produce, the popular chefs’ demonstration tent, a variety of amusements for kids and free facials, hand massages and mini-makeovers from Burt’s Bees and Maybelline brand ambassadors.

Nathan Clevenger Group - Traditional jazz - May 18, 6pm - free - Cafe Royale, 800 Post St. @ Leavenworth, San Francisco - www.caferoyale-sf.com

Blending art and soul in one of the country’s most unique neighborhoods, the Fillmore Jazz Festival is the largest free Jazz festival on the West Coast, drawing over 90,000 visitors over the Independence Day weekend. From sunup to sundown, visitors can groove to the sounds of live music from multiple stages, browse the offerings of over 8 blocks (Fillmore between Jackson and Eddy) of fine art and crafts and enjoy gourmet food and beverages. Asian to Cajun, paintings to pottery, old favorites and new directions, the Fillmore Jazz Festival is not to be missed.

This year’s entertainment continues the tradition of showcasing outstanding artists from across the Jazz spectrum.

New Orleans legend and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Allen Toussaint brings the Big Easy back to the Grove. With a career spanning forty years as a singer, pianist, songwriter, arranger, and producer, Toussaint is one of America’s greatest musical icons and a captivating performer. Opening is Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue who break down traditional jazz rhythms with funk, pop, and hip-hop. (more…)