Bay Area Aloha Festival, Day 2

About this event

Experience the Magic of the Islands: 31st Annual Bay Area Aloha FestivalLooking for a tropical escape without booking a flight? The 31st Annual Bay Area Aloha Festival is officially docking on the Peninsula for a full weekend celebration. On Saturday, August 8 and Sunday, August 9, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, the San Mateo County Event Center (1346 Saratoga Drive, San Mateo, CA) transforms into the region’s premier celebration of Pacific Islander history, heritage, and traditions.Organized by the non-profit Pacific Islanders' Cultural Association (PICA), this massive weekend gathering is completely family-friendly and highly budget-conscious. General admission is just $5.00 per person (which includes a commemorative entry raffle ticket), and children 12 and under attend completely free.Continuous Multi-Island Live EntertainmentThe central Plaza Stage fires up at 11:00 AM each morning, hosting a non-stop rotation of traditional and contemporary regional showcases:Polynesian Choreography: Watch immersive storytelling and fast-paced hip percussion routines from elite troupes like Hui Tarava (Tahitian dance), Halau Hula Hi'ilani 'O Ke Kai, and the Manuia Polynesian Review.Live Soundtracks: Relax on the grass to acoustic strings, roots-reggae beats, and island contemporary harmonies from Glorius Ukuleles, Na Leo Pumehana Hawaiian Band, Mana, and the PICA Kanikapila Band.Artisan Marketplace, Massages & Ono GrindzThe fairgrounds' West Lot and Central Mall will feature over 70 local makers, cultural booths, and food spots:Island Marketplace: Pick up handcrafted authentic legal shell jewelry, fresh floral leis, custom fabrics, and Polynesian art pieces.Cultural Wellness: Stop by the ʻAhahui Lomilomi Hawaiʻi pavilion for interactive historical demonstrations and traditional seated Hawaiian chair massages.The Food Court: Feast on massive, authentic plates of slow-roasted kalua pork, teriyaki chicken katsu, fresh poke bowls, Fijian meat pies, and towering island shave ice.Essential Fairground Logistics & RulesSeating: There are no permanent bleachers. Directory users are highly encouraged to bring their own low-backed beach chairs and picnic blankets for stage-side seating.Parking Fees: On-site vehicle parking is $25.00 per day with no in-and-out privileges. To skip the traffic and save on cash, take Caltrain directly to the nearby Hayward Park Station and enjoy a short walk over to the main gate.Strict Security Policies: Outside food and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed, but alcohol, glass bottles, weapons, and household pets (except licensed service animals) are strictly prohibited on Event Center grounds.Don't miss the Peninsula's ultimate mid-summer block party! For complete multi-day schedule updates, vendor registration maps, or volunteer sign-ups, check out the official PICA Bay Area Aloha Festival Portal.