If you want a no-ticket weeknight plan between now and late July, the South Bay has six recurring options that work after work — all free at the door, all near a parking garage.
Wednesdays, every week. Santana Row Farmers’ Market opens its 2026 season Wednesday, May 6, and runs 4–8 PM through September on Santana Row between Olin Avenue and Olsen Drive, per California Farmers’ Markets Association.
Free entry, dog-friendly, with garage parking nearby. Same evening up the 101: Music on Castro returns to downtown Mountain View Wednesdays 5:00–6:45 PM through October on the 200 block of Castro Street near Dana Street, per the City of Mountain View.
Free, all-ages.
Tuesdays through Saturdays. San Pedro Square Market at 87 N San Pedro St in downtown San Jose runs free live music Tuesday–Saturday 6–9 PM, with Jeopardy Bar League trivia Tuesdays 7–9 PM, per the venue’s calendar.
The May lineup includes Aki Kumar (May 4), Latin Remix (May 5), ShaKedown (May 23), and CA/DC (May 29). Tripadvisor lists the market among San Jose’s top-ranked street markets, updated 2026…