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Summer starts tomorrow, June 21, so as we see it, the weekend should start today (logic has always been our strong suit). So here are seven ways to kick it in the SF Bay Area and beyond this weekend, from the return of Woody and Buzz to mind-blowing barbecue to San Francisco’s annual Frameline LGBTQ film festival.
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1 HEAR: Some of the most fun and melodic rock songs ever written.
Jeff Lynne’s ELO (we geezers used to call them the Electric Light Orchestra) is back in the Bay Area, ready to perform such beloved rock standards as “Can’t Get It Out of My Head” and “Evil Woman,” among countless others. Here’s what you need to know, along with our fearless critic’s noble attempt at naming the band’s 10 best tunes. Meanwhile, there are some other shows you should know about, including the return of Wu-Tang Clan. And if you want to catch one of the Bay Area’s most popular singer-songwriters performing at the lovely Cal Shakes amphitheater, the details are here.
2 EAT: Barbecue deliciousness
That mouthwatering aroma drifting over the city of San Jose on Saturday? And those Cocktail Monkeys at the mic? The Silicon Valley BBQ Smackdown is this weekend, complete with 50 professional ’cue teams stoking the smokers for brisket and more, 33 “backyard teams” on tri-tip duty and a lineup of fun bands, including the aforesaid monkeys. Here’s what you need to know.
3 SEE: The beloved ‘Toy Story’ franchise is back!
If you thought “Toy Story 3” was meant to be the final film in the franchise, you were not alone. Heck, even some people at Pixar thought that was it. But now Woody, Buzz and the rest of the gang are back, ready to make us laugh, sigh and cry all over again. Want to know how and why Pixar returned to the franchise? Go here. Meanwhile, here’s a rundown of all your cinematic options, including the return of another iconic, if utterly nasty, toy to the big screen.
4 PLAY & EAT: Roller coasters and funnel cakes
Theme park season has officially begun. There’s a new thrill ride at Six Flags and some extremely tasty new bites at California’s Great America, from bacon-wrapped hot dogs to unicorn funnel cakes.
5. SEE: The world’s largest LGBTQ film festival
June is Pride month, which means the return of San Francisco’s huge Frameline film festival, said to be the biggest and longest-running such event in the country. With more than 170 films, including 22 world premieres, Frameline serves up a ton of options, from a campy queer vampire thriller to riveting documentaries. Here’s our tips for which films to see.
6. PLAY: Beachy fun
If you’re craving some sand between your toes, followed by a post-beach margarita, head for cozy Capitola where the vibe is laid-back and the eats sublime. Here’s the perfect day trip itinerary.
7 SEE: A parody of Disney princesses in San Jose
Guggenheim Entertainment’s latest show is a not-exactly-reverent look at the world of Disney-style princesses. “Disenchanted,” a song-and-dance revue/satire, opens this weekend at 3Below Theatre, and here’s what you need to know.
