Harringtunes Concerts 2025: With Decaf Jazz, The Horse’s Mac, and 19th Avenue Roadwork
Harringtunes Concert 2025: Live Music + Open Chess Downtown
Enjoy fall concerts on Laurel Street and a side of strategy at Frank D. Harrington Park. Settle in for live sets by local performers while two permanent chess boards—courtesy of the Parks and Recreation Foundation of San Carlos—are stocked with pieces and ready for friendly showdowns. Bring your own snacks and drinks, or plan a dinner stop at your favorite Laurel Street restaurant after the music winds down.
Chess boards and pieces are available first-come, first-served. Interested in sponsoring or performing at an upcoming Harringtunes concert? Reach out to Recreation Supervisor Lauren Burd at (650) 802-4127 or lburd@cityofsancarlos.org.
What’s the Vibe?
It’s simple: live music, open-air chess, and an easygoing neighborhood crowd. These sets are designed for lingering—pick up a pastry, snag some shade, and let the soundtrack carry you through the afternoon (or early evening). If your opening move is usually “grab a latte,” consider this your green light. If you’re more of a “find a picnic table” type, we’ve got room for that too.
About the artists
Decaf Jazz (Sept. 7, 2025: Sunday)
Decaf Jazz brews a smooth blend of standards and easygoing grooves—strong enough to perk up your afternoon, but mellow enough for conversation at the chess tables nearby. Expect unhurried tempos, warm melodies, and the kind of city-park soundtrack that pairs well with an iced coffee and a sunny bench.
The Horse’s Mac (Sept. 28, 2025: Sunday)
The Horse’s Mac brings jangly guitars, friendly hooks, and a dash of indie swagger—think toe-taps and head-bobs as your pawns inch forward. They’re neighborhood favorites for a reason: upbeat, unfussy, and perfectly suited to a casual downtown Saturday.
19th Avenue Roadwork (Nov. 20, 2025: Thursday)
19th Avenue Roadwork lays down a tight lane of rhythm and a few surprise detours; no hard hats required. They mix rock and rootsy turns with a wink, making rush hour feel like the best part of the day.
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Looking for a way to introduce a friend to the scene? This is an effortless entry point: approachable tunes, zero fuss, and a no-ticket format that welcomes folks to wander in and stay as long as they like.
Chess, but make it social
The two permanent boards at Frank D. Harrington Park are stocked with pieces during the show, so you can trade riffs and rooks at the same time. It’s first-come, first-served, and games tend to move quickly—when a set wraps, a new match usually starts. If you’re brand-new to chess, come anyway. You’ll pick up the basics fast by watching neighbors play a few rounds.
Quick tips for casual play
- Keep games friendly and under 20 minutes so others can rotate in.
- Snap a photo of the end position if you’re mid-game at set break.
- Bring a light jacket; the breeze can pick up on Laurel Street.
- Pack a water bottle. The park has shade, but music + chess can be surprisingly focused!
Food & nearby stops
One of the perks of downtown sets is proximity to favorites on Laurel Street. Build your own mini-itinerary:
- Coffee first, music second. Or flip it.
- Split time between the stage area and the chess tables.
- Grab dinner right after the encore. It’s the perfect handoff from day to night.
Accessibility & comfort
Frank D. Harrington Park is a flat, open space with benches and room to stand or bring a compact chair. Restrooms are available at nearby businesses, and curb ramps make it easy to navigate around the block. If you need a quieter moment, step off to the edges of the park and drift back when you’re ready.
Sponsorships & performers
Local businesses, school groups, and emerging artists are invited to get involved. Sponsorship helps keep the series free and lively; performers add color to the lineup across genres. To learn more, contact Recreation Supervisor Lauren Burd at (650) 802-4127 or lburd@cityofsancarlos.org.
What to bring
- A small chair or picnic blanket
- A light sweater for the evening breeze
- Your chess A-game (or curiosity)
- Snacks and a refillable bottle
- Friends, family, neighbors—this is an inclusive, community-forward hang
FAQs
Do I need tickets? No—these shows are free and open to the public.
Can I bring kids? Absolutely. The format is relaxed, and the park is a low-pressure setting.
Can I bring my dog? Leashed pups who play well with others are welcome.
What if I don’t play chess? Listen in, then jump into a game when you’re ready. Someone will happily explain the basics.
The takeaway
Come for the live music, stay for the camaraderie. Laurel Street shines in the fall, and Frank D. Harrington Park turns into a friendly crossroads of melodies and chess moves. Whether you’re here for a full set or catching a few songs between errands, this is an easy, memorable way to spend part of your day.
Photos
Taken from the official website of Harringtunes Concerts by the City of San Carlos
Sponsored by the San Carlos Parks & Recreation Department.
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About San Carlos Life
Mark Martinho and Vivienne Kelvin are the hosts of San Carlos Life and have been residents of San Carlos for years. While running San Carlos Life together with an awesome team, Mark and Viv are also in the business of real estate. They are the co-owners of Vabrato, a real estate brokerage with over 30 years of combined experience, serving the City of Good Living and the whole of San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.
With expert negotiation skills, in-depth local market knowledge, precise pricing strategies, and the latest technology paired with innovative marketing tactics, they consistently deliver exceptional results. Their proven track record includes helping sellers obtain offers above the asking price and guiding buyers to successfully secure their dream home.
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Mark is a Real Estate Broker and General Contractor, with degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Law. He is also a long-time resident of Redwood City and San Carlos. Viv is also a Broker, respected Interior Designer, seasoned Marketing Expert, and trusted San Carlos business community leader, as well as a long-time San Carlos resident.
Need help in buying or selling a home in San Carlos?
If you’re curious what your current home might sell for, we’ll provide a free, detailed market valuation and show you how we can help maximize its value. And if you’re looking to buy, we’ll guide you with the right strategy to find and secure the home you’ve been searching for. With a unique blend of real estate, design, and construction expertise, we go beyond usual expectations to help every client achieve and exceed their goals.
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