About San Carlos
About Mark and Viv
Mark Martinho and Viv Kelvin are the owners of Vabrato Real Estate
San Carlos Hometown Days 2024: Your Ultimate Guide
May 17 @ 8:00 am - May 19 @ 5:00 pm
“Hometown Days – Family fun since 1979!”
Hometown Days is a weekend where people of San Carlos come together to celebrate each other and the important milestones during the year. The event kicks off with a parade where different groups in San Carlos – school bands, girl scouts, police and firemen, non-profits, and others – ride their own float and present themselves to the community.
After the parade, its a whole weekend with tons of food and lovely music in Burton Park, where the attendees enjoy a variety of activities, special demonstrations, and presentations. Antique and classic cars. Country Western Dancing. Fire Department’s Arial rescue and “jaws of life” demonstrations. Puppet shows. Concessions. Arts and Crafts. Moon walk. Horseshoe tournament. Pony rides. Choo Choo train rides. Pet Parade. Artist sales. 4-H Petting Zoo. Jugglers. Magicians. The Amazing Mr. Bubbleman. 3-Legged Races. For many years on Sunday morning at 7am (weather permitting), Hot Air Balloon Rides were also part of the fun.
After decades upon decades, the San Carlos Hometown Days celebration still stands, and its original purpose – to build community – remains intact.
Hometown Days Parade
Join us for the Hometown Days Parade along Laurel Street, kicking off Saturday morning, May 18th, at 9:45 a.m. starting from Central Middle School. This lively procession, a centerpiece of the Hometown Days weekend, winds its way for all to enjoy. Expect a delightful array of participants, including antique vehicles, floats, fire trucks, sheriff vehicles, marching bands, dance troupes, and various local organizations!
The atmosphere is brimming with festivity, with an energetic crowd adding to the excitement! Expert parade judges will meticulously evaluate entries across several categories. Positioned at the judging stand in front of Bianchini’s Market on Laurel Street, spectators can catch the spectacle along San Carlos Avenue, Laurel Street, and Arroyo Avenue.
Parade Rules
Please read this material carefully and share them with the participants in your group.
- An adult must accompany participants under the age of 6 years.
- All floats should carry a fire extinguisher and provide hand supports or barriers for those riding on the float.
- Parade participants should not sit on the sides or tailgates of vehicles.
- Groups may hand out items to the audience along the parade route, but throwing of objects is STRICTLY PROHIBITED!
- Walking groups are encouraged to walk in an orderly fashion.
- Please be considerate of residents along the parade route.
- Entries that include small children should provide wagons, strollers or carry them if they become tired.
- The parade goes on rain or shine as well as sun or heat! Be prepared for any type of weather.
- Be sure to have lots of water on hand for the marchers in your group!
Entering the Parade Area
- FOR PEDESTRIANS MARCHING IN THE PARADE – Access to the Cedar Street staging area is located at the Arroyo Street police barrier. (See map)
- FOR CARS DRIVING IN THE PARADE – Access to the Cedar Street staging area is located at the police barrier at Cedar Street and Arroyo. You may enter from the South going North on Cedar Street ONLY! (See map)
- FOR BIG VEHICLES DRIVING IN THE PARADE – Lineup is along Cedar Street immediately south of Orange Avenue. The ONLY access will be from the intersection of Arroyo Street and Cedar Street traveling North on Cedar. (See map)
Parade participants should be DROPPED OFF IN THE DESIGNATED AREA ON ARROYO STREET ON THE CORNER OF CEDAR STREET and walk in to find their group. The only vehicles allowed to enter the lineup area will be those that are part of the parade.
PLEASE NOTE THAT CEDAR STREET (FROM ORANGE AVENUE TO ARROYO AVENUE) WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC OTHER THAN PARADE PARTICIPANTS AND PARADE STAFF FROM 7:00 a.m. TO 12:30 p.m. This section of Cedar Street will also be closed to on-street parking as well.
Check-In
Please read this material carefully and share them with the participants in your group.
Be prepared to show your lineup information to Hometown Days Parade Chair or Volunteers. Walking groups assemble at Central School on Cedar Street.
Parade Route
THE PARADE WILL STEP OFF AT PRECISELY 9:45 a.m.
Route Directions
- Start at Central Middle School
- Northbound Cedar Street
- Eastbound San Carlos Avenue
- Southbound Laurel Street
- Westbound Arroyo Avenue
- Northbound Cedar Street
- End at Central Middle School
Hometown Days Parade is a walking parade. We hope to have a constant flow and forward motion during the duration. Do not stop in front of the judges stand in order to perform. Maintain a length of three feet behind the group in front of you. If you have a mechanical failure, please move your vehicle to the side of the road so that other groups can pass by.
If your group consists of several vehicles, maintain a distance of one and one-half car lengths between them. If you are driving a vehicle, the number on the car should be displayed in the upper right-hand front window. This number is extremely important. Please do not exchange it with anyone. It is the only way you are identifiable to announcers and judges.
ALL ENTRIES ARE ASKED TO COMPLETE THE PARADE BY TURNING RIGHT ON CEDAR STREET IN THE END AND DISBANDING NEAR THE STAGING AREA WHERE YOU BEGAN.
THANK YOU FOR MAKING THIS PARADE SO SPECIAL! WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU!
Hometown Days “Pre-Parade Roll”: Bike & Roll to Hometown Days
Attention all cyclists, scooter enthusiasts, unicycle aficionados, and anyone with a love for human-powered wheels! Be part of the action by joining the Pre-Parade Roll in the Hometown Days festivities! It’s a wheeled extravaganza!
Bring out your bikes, scooters, and other riding contraptions, and let’s cruise down the parade route together just before the main event. The pace will be leisurely, allowing everyone to enjoy the ride. Get creative with costumes, deck out your wheels with decorations, and don’t forget the pinwheels for extra flair! Meet up with fellow riders between 9:15 and 9:30 a.m. at the Wheeler Plaza parking lot on Laurel Street, before embarking together at 9:40 a.m. The bike parade concludes at Burton Park, where the fun continues!
Valet Bike & Wheel Parking at Hometown Days
Hop on your wheels and pedal your way to Hometown Days! Enjoy the convenience of valet parking for bikes and riding wheels at the tennis courts, accessible through the northeast corner gate of Burton Park. Valet services will be offered on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Questions? Join as a Voluteer Bike Valet? Email sancarlosbikes@gmail.com
Hometown Days Art Contest
Celebrate the essence of San Carlos by participating in the Hometown Days Art Contest! We invite all young artists to express their creativity and love for our community. Exciting prizes await, and your masterpiece could be featured at the center of our festivities. Don’t miss this chance to make your mark on San Carlos. Submit your artwork today and contribute to the vibrant spirit of our Hometown Days celebration!
Attention young artists! Immerse yourself in the lively spirit of San Carlos with our Hometown Days Coloring Contest. Whether you’re an emerging talent or just beginning to explore the world of art, this is your opportunity to add a splash of color to our celebration. Showcase your creativity and bring these illustrations to life with your unique style. Exciting prizes await the most imaginative entries, so help us spread joy and creativity across San Carlos. Grab your coloring supplies and let your inner artist shine in the San Carlos Hometown Days Coloring Contest!
UPPER ELEMENTARY COLORING PAGE
Fun Run
Come join the Bruce M. Paris Memorial Rotary Club Fun Run, a delightful 5K/10K event perfect for the whole family! We’re racing to raise funds for student scholarships and other wonderful charitable causes. Lace up your sneakers and bring your enthusiasm for a day filled with fun, fitness, and community spirit.
Cheer on the runners as prizes are awarded to the top finishers in both the 5K and 10K races, with shiny medals for those who come in 2nd and 3rd place. But the excitement doesn’t stop there! All participants will get a fabulous Fun Run t-shirt to commemorate the day.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just out for a good time, this event promises joy and laughter for everyone involved. So, gather your family and friends, and let’s make it a day to remember with the Bruce M. Paris Memorial Rotary Club Fun Run!
Pet Parade
Join us for a purr-fectly wonderful time at the San Carlos Hometown Days Pet Parade! We’re calling all pet lovers to celebrate the extraordinary bond between pets and their owners. Bring your fabulous furry, feathered, or even scaly friends to strut their stuff and showcase their unique talents.
From glamorous dogs and charming cats to any other adorable creatures you cherish, every pet is welcome to join the fun. Make sure to register by May 12 so you don’t miss out on this paws-itively delightful event.
Pre-registered participants will have a chance to compete for fantastic prizes across four exciting categories, and the awards ceremony will be held on the Flanagan Infield at 12:15 PM. So, get ready for a day filled with wagging tails, happy purrs, and endless smiles. We can’t wait to see you and your amazing pets there!
Categories:
Best Dressed Pet
Fabulous Felines
Star of the Show (Junior Handler)
Top Dog
Wildest Exotics
Thank you to Bow Wow Meow and Peninsula Humane Society & SCPA, our 2024 Sponsors, for making the Hometown Days Pet Parade possible!
Entertainment Schedule
Hometown Days features two stages of live performance & music. The Cedar Stage is the permanent city stage located in Burton Park adjacent to the children’s playgrounds at the north end of Burton Park. The Grass Stage is set up just for Hometown Days and is located in the open spaces of the grassy sports fields at the south end of the park near the San Carlos Youth Center.
Friday, May 17th : Cedar Stage
5:30pm – Tierra Linda Jazz Band
6:00pm – Central Orchestra
6:30pm – Tierra Linda Orchestra
7:00pm – Central Jazz Band
Saturday, May 18
CEDAR STAGE LINE UP
10:00 am – San Francisco Jazz Ensemble (Jazz Music)
The SFJAZZ Collective is an all-star ensemble and composer’s workshop that represents what’s happening now in jazz.
11:30 am – Jim Stevens and Friends (Folk Music)
Jim Stevens is a folksinger from El Paso, TX, now based in the San Francisco Bay Area, and has been playing in CA since 1982.
1:00pm – E Ticket (Rock & Roll / Dance)
The E-Ticket Band is a popular eight-piece rock & roll dance band that has been entertaining folks throughout the SF Bay Area since 1985, mixing upbeat popular dance tunes from the 1970s’ through 2020’s
3:00pm – Ticket to Ride (Beatles)
The Bay Area’s Ultimate Beatles Party Band
GRASS STAGE LINE UP
11:30 am – Scots Tape
1:00pm – Steam Donkey (Rock)
2:30pm – False Bottom (Bluegrass)
Acoustic band from Half Moon Bay, California. Bluegrass to Newgrass, and all the grasses in-between.
Sunday, May 19
CEDAR STAGE LINE UP
10:00 am – West Bay Community Band
The West Bay Community Band on the San Francisco peninsula is a Symphonic Band with instrumentation capable of performing all major works for wind instruments and symphonic band.
11:30 am – Pandemics
1:00pm – Flight of the Ulysses
Four Bay Area natives that live and breathe Rock and Roll.
3:00pm – Jerome Madigan and The Whatevers
“We are an SF Bay Area band that plays originals as well as your favorite hits from the 70s, 80s and today!”
GRASS STAGE LINE UP
9:00 am – Sequoia Jazz Band
10:00 am – Fun Run Awards
11:00 am – Pet Parade
11:45 am – Art Awards
12:00 pm – Pet Parade Awards
12:45 pm – San Carlos Children’s Theater
1:30pm – Emily Bender Groups
Vocal music is my joy. My passion is bringing the joy of music and the skills needed for success to people of all ages
3:00pm – Pride and Joy
The most popular party band in the Bay Area
Dining Options
Brisket Prime
One man on a crusade for better BBQ in the Bay Area.
MBs Place
The best burgers, sandwiches, fries, and more…
Pizza by San Mateo Gymnastics
Pizza!
Pancake Breakfast by Rotary Club
Breakfast Pancakes, available only in the morning.
Cousins Maine Lobster
Cousins Maine Lobster partners with local entrepreneurs who want to bring the sweet succulent taste of Maine lobster to their neighborhood.
Mister Softee
Soft Ice Cream
Pinto Cocina Mexicana
Mexican Food: Tacos, Quesadillas, and More
Hot Dogs & Hamburgers by Lions Club
Hot Dogs and Hamburgers
Made Out Of Dough
Cakes
Soft Drinks by Kiwanis Club
Soft Drinks
Polar Beverages
Premium seltzers, mixers, dry sodas
Yummy Kitchen SJ
Chinese Food
Paleta Planeta
Delicious ice pops (paletas) using only fresh, natural and organic* ingredients.
Respectable Bird Food Truck
Fried Chicken
Sam’s Chowder Mobile
Fresh New England style seafood
Shops and Info Booths
SHOPS
Champagne & Waffles
Modern Crochet and Knit
Cynthia’s Treasure Chest
Costume Rentals
E BY ELFIE
Pet Clothes and Accessories
Del Crisol Jewelry
Artisan Jewelry
Fascinating Face & Body Paint
Face and body painting for birthday parties, special events, festivals, pregnant wombs, shows, model
One Step Beyond, Inc.
Our Mission is to provide dynamic programs and services to individuals who have intellectual disabilities.
Peaceful Clay
Making whimsical, functional ceramics in Bay Area
Verso Braiding
Making fascinating hair braids in events and parties
Youth Advisory Council Thrift Store
Thrift Store
Box Paper Scissors
Handmade paper crafts – photo albums, journals, greeting cards, tags, boxes and Advent calendars.
Coming Home
I am a transformational life coach specializing in the expression of the authentic self
Transformative Glass
Handcrafted functional and decorative fused glass pieces made in the California Bay Area.
Lily’s Natural Soaps & Essentials
Artisan soaps and perfumes
Li’s International Trading
Artisan Accessories
INFO BOOTHS
San Mateo County Sheriffs
The San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office is dedicated to protecting lives and property and is committed to providing the highest level of professional law enforcement and correctional services.
San Carlos Fire Department
Serving you in all aspects of Fire Protection.
CERT (Community Emergency Response Team)
“We urge you to become a part of our community-based disaster response team, and to encourage your friends and neighbors to become involved in the “Are You Ready?” and CERT programs.”
Community Foundation of San Carlos (Non Profit)
The Community Foundation of San Carlos aims to inspire community engagement and build community connections, to be stewards of our public places and natural environment, and to strengthen the quality of life for the entire diversity of the San Carlos community, now and for future generations.
AbleCloset MELP
Free equipment loans for children with disabilities in California
Belmont Runners
Running club for Belmont, San Carlos, San Mateo, Redwood City and the surrounding area
California Clubhouse
Social and vocational rehabilitation program in San Mateo County for individuals living with a mental illness.
Fixin’ San Mateo County
Local grassroots organization working to enact effective, independent civilian oversight of the County Sheriff’s Office.
Friends of Edgewood
Our mission is to protect Edgewood’s extraordinary biodiversity and foster lasting connections with Edgewood and the larger natural world.
Girl Scouts of Northern California
Join today! Discover the Girl Scout Experience
Healthy Cities Tutoring
Healthy Cities Tutoring helps kids who struggle to succeed in school.
Healthy Kids, Happy Planet
We envision a world where our youth thrive in a culture of health, environmental stewardship and ethical food systems.
HIP Housing
Housing Support
Murphy Music Camps
Our award-winning professional musical staff offers quality instruction while providing a fun, dynamic and creative environment.
San Carlos History Museum
“We preserve San Carlos’ history. From native settlement to now, see exhibits and artifacts originating from our City.”
Office of Ray Mueller
San Mateo County Supervisor since 2023
Rebuilding Together Peninsula
Rebuilding Together Peninsula offers free safe and healthy housing-related repairs for qualifying homeowners throughout the San Francisco Peninsula.
Row House Belmont
Rowing-based fitness workouts burn calories, improve posture and strengthen your body from head to toe.
San Carlos Library
The San Carlos Library is known for its two-story sky-lit dome and offering a wealth of books, emerging technologies and programming…
San Carlos School District
The San Carlos School District shall provide an innovative and engaging learning experience that fosters the development of the Whole Child to ensure all students are well prepared for success in the future.
Sequoia Healthcare District
At Sequoia Healthcare District we value innovation and creative solutions to addressing health issues. Our district grants and programs directly benefit approximately 60,000 residents per year, or about one out of every 4.5 residents.
Sequoia Village
Sequoia Village is a group of local residents with the goal of helping each other to age in place. We do this by providing access to support services that help people engage in community activities and continue to live independently.
Star Vista
For over 55 years, StarVista has helped people throughout San Mateo County navigate life’s challenges.
Summit Prep Charter High School
Welcome to Summit Prep, a free, top performing public high school serving a diverse students population in grades 9-12.
Civic Garden Club of San Carlos
The Civic Garden Club of San Carlos is a volunteer-run non-profit organization of enthusiastic gardeners in San Carlos, California and nearby neighborhoods.
San Carlos Charter School
We are K-8 public charter school with a constructivist philosophy. San Carlos Charter is the oldest continually running charter school in California and one of the oldest operating charter schools in the United States.
San Carlos Maker Mobile
The Makermobile is a new outreach vehicle that promises to deliver innovative, high-impact maker programs beyond library walls. The 23-foot-long vehicle is designed to “unfold” at each new destination, releasing three movable carts that will roll out and station around the vehicle, transforming the surrounding location into a bustling makerspace.
Unified Climate Action
Take action now to reduce plastic waste and combat climate change.
Central Middle School Environmental Club
Central Middle’s School initiative for protecting and preserving our natural environment
FAQ
Parking at Hometown Days
Where Can I Park My Car?
Street Parking around Burton Park only. Parking is very limited. We recommend carpooling or biking. Bike valet will be provided.
Where Can I Park My Bike?
Bike valet will be provided at the Burton Park tennis courts. Enter through the northeast corner gate of the tennis courts. 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday.
Games at Hometown Days
How do I play games?
Tickets are required to play games! Each game requires a certain number of tickets. Ticket requirements will be shown at each game.
How Do I Get Tickets for Games?
Tickets are for sale! $1 for 1 ticket. We recommend buying in bulk. Tickets can be purchased at marked booths.
Are There Prizes for Games?
Some games offer prizes, other games do not. Game operators are not required to give away prizes. They are only required to provide a fun game!
Pets at Hometown Days
Are Pets Allowed?
On-leash pets are welcome at Hometown Days! Please keep in mind that this festival is loud and many areas can be crowded, so some pets may prefer to stay home.
Dining at Hometown Days
What are the Food & Drink Options?
Water and other beverages are available in a number of locations throughout Burton Park, indicated on our Event Map. Water fountains can also be found. Check out our Dining Options page for a listing of available food!
Is Alcohol Allowed?
Beer and wine will be sold in various beverage booths throughout Hometown Days. Outside alcohol is not allowed.
Rotary Club Activities
Where is the Rotary Club Fun Run Located?
TBA. Check back here soon.
Where is the Rotary Club Pancake Breakfast Located?
TBA. Check back here soon
General Information About Hometown Days
What is Hometown Days?
Hometown Days is a family-fun festival where San Carlos gathers to celebrate their hometown with a fun parade, talented live entertainment, and delicious food and drink!
Where Is Hometown Days?
Hometown Days is located at Burton Park in San Carlos. 900 Chestnut St, San Carlos CA, 97070. See you there!
Is There an Entrance Fee?
There is no entrance fee for Hometown Days.
What are Hometown Days Hours?
Hometown Days will be open from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM on both Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19.
Who do I Contact for More Information?
Email the San Carlos Parks & Recreation events division at events@cityofsancarlos.org or call (650) 802-4127 for more information!
History
Front page of “San Carlos Living” Magazine, May 2020 Edition, Celebrating 40 Years of Hometown Days
In the fall of 1979, a small group of community members gathered with then Mayor, Pat Bennie to bring to life her vision of a community event. They dubbed it ” Hometown Days”, and gave it a western theme. The original volunteer committee included a cross section of the community and the goals they set for this family-oriented day were to provide non-profit community clubs and organizations an opportunity to participate, earn a few dollars and offer the community a good time at little expense.
As plans developed, it was decided to make the event two days. Service clubs like the Lions, Kiwanis, and Rotary would provide man power and food and beverage booths at a reasonable cost to attendees. Community businesses could donate prizes, services, resources, and be recognized for their support.
In 1980, after months of planning and organizing, the original event took place on a September weekend. Hundreds attended. The Kiwanis Club barbequed steaks and burgers and a band played while folks danced under the stars. Sunday morning, The Rotary Club held a pancake breakfast and people streamed into the park after church services. It was a huge success.
San Carlos clubs and organizations expressed their delight about this first-ever weekend community social. Artists were pleased with their recognition and sales, attendees loved it, and all agreed that Hometown Days should continue the following year.
Without any funding, the all-volunteer Hometown Days Committee scheduled their second annual celebration. The event eventually moved to its current May spot, and over 30 years later, with over 12,000 attendees annually, we continue to celebrate Mayor Pat Bennie’s dream of a spirited, fun-filled community gathering.
From San Carlos Hometown Days Official Website
Host a Booth or Food Stall
Introduce your business, non-profit organization, or handmade product to thousands of enthusiastic Hometown Days attendees! Sign up to host a Game, a Community Information Booth, or a Marketplace Booth. You’ll meet new friends, dance to music, and enjoy beautiful Burton Park as part of one of the biggest and most fun events of the year!
Or if you are thinking of being a Food Vendor, San Carlos Hometown Days attracts thousands of hungry attendees to Burton Park on May 20 and 21, and a variety of tasty choices gives everyone the chance to picnic in the park!
Due to high volume of participants, Onsite Booth and Food Vendor registrations are now closed. Thank you so much to our many 2023 Hometown Days participants! If you have questions about becoming a food vendor at Hometown Days, please contact events@cityofsancarlos.org.
See other interesting traditional events in San Carlos. You may also check the main calendar for the dates of these, or to save them on your personal calendar.
Official website: https://www.sancarloshometowndays.com/
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