Though Berkeley residents bring to the city such diverse backgrounds and varied talents, one thing they have in common is that they know how to celebrate. Throughout the year, Berkeley hosts a number of fairs and festivals that show off the artistic and international sides of the city.

The Berkeley Arts Festival , held the first two weeks in May, brings together established and up-and-coming artists from all corners of Berkeley to show off their works and get noticed. Similarly, the Live Oak Park Fair , held in the park in early June, showcases the work of local craftspeople, with jewelry, ceramics and other fine goods made available to the consumer right from the people who created it.

One of the more unique events to grace Berkeley’s streets, the “How Berkeley Can You Be?” Parade and Festival is just what it sounds like: the celebration of the inimitable culture of one of America’s wildest and weirdest destinations. Held every year in September since 1996, the event lures out some of the neighborhood’s most colorful characters for an afternoon of outlandish floats, great live music, tasty food and fun.
There are also a number of festivals that celebrate the culture and traditions of Berkeley’s various ethnic communities, including Cinco de Mayo (in May, Downtown Berkeley), the Jewish Film Festival (July-August), and the Himalayan Fair (late May). Also be sure to check out Indigenous Peoples Day, a holiday Berkeley residents celebrate in place of traditional Columbus Day, with dancing, food, crafts and contests.