September 2026 Events in Pacifica: Art, Family Fun & Fog Fest

September is shaping up to be an exciting month in Pacifica, with local events offering something for just about everyone.

From an immersive art exhibition and a hands-on journey into California history to family storytime and one of Pacifica’s most anticipated annual festivals, there are plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy the community this month.

Whether you have lived on the Coastside for years or are looking for something new to experience, here are four Pacifica events worth adding to your September calendar.

Rancho Days Fiesta at Sánchez Adobe

For a completely different look at Pacifica, head to historic Sánchez Adobe Park for the annual Rancho Days Fiesta.

Hosted by the San Mateo County Historical Association, this free family event invites visitors to experience what life was like during California’s rancho era.

Guests can step back into the 1840s, when Don Francisco Sánchez raised cattle at Rancho San Pedro, and participate in hands-on historical activities such as making adobe bricks, stamping leather, dipping candles, making corn husk dolls, churning butter, and learning traditional Californio dances. 

It is a fun opportunity for families to experience local history beyond a textbook and learn more about the people and traditions that helped shape the area.

📅 Saturday, September 19, 2026
⏰ 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
📍 Sánchez Adobe Park, 1000 Linda Mar Boulevard, Pacifica
🎟️ Free

Event details: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rancho-days-fiesta-tickets-1997496891975?

Pacific Coast Fog Fest

Few events capture Pacifica quite like the Pacific Coast Fog Fest.

Celebrating its 39th year, Fog Fest returns to Palmetto Avenue for two full days of live music, local art, food, family activities, and community celebration.

The festival features more than 200 arts and crafts booths, along with three stages of live entertainment covering everything from blues and jazz to rock and reggae. Visitors can also enjoy food and beverages, the Family Fun Fest, contests, and the annual parade. Fog Fest - September 26th & 27th, 2026!

Fog Fest began in 1986 as a way to celebrate Pacifica and its coastal community. The event also gives back locally, with more than 35 community groups benefiting from funds raised through the festival. Fog Fest - September 26th & 27th, 2026!

📅 Saturday & Sunday, September 26 & 27, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
📍 Palmetto Avenue, Pacifica
🎟️ Free admission

Event details: https://pacificcoastfogfest.com/ 

With music, food, art, activities, and the Pacific Ocean just a block away, this is one of those quintessential Pacifica weekends that brings residents and visitors together.

Family Storytime With Stay and Play

For families with younger children, San Mateo County Libraries is offering Family Storytime With Stay and Play at Pacifica Sharp Park.

The program combines stories, songs, movement, and play in an environment designed for young children and their families. After storytime, families can stay for additional open ended play and activities. The series is geared toward preschool age children from birth through age five. 

September sessions include:

September 16, 23 & 30, 2026
⏰ 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM
📍 Pacifica Sharp Park

Event details: https://smcl.bibliocommons.com/v2/events?series=6941ff696f926136000b50b5 

The series continues on select Wednesdays throughout the remainder of 2026, making it a great recurring activity for local families. 

Make the Most of September in Pacifica

What makes Pacifica special goes far beyond its beaches and ocean views. It is the local art, history, traditions, family activities, and community events that give the city its character.

September offers a great snapshot of that community spirit. You can discover hundreds of original works from California artists, experience local history at Sánchez Adobe, spend an evening at storytime with the kids, and finish the month celebrating everything Pacifica at Fog Fest.

If you’re looking for things to do in Pacifica this September, these four events are a great place to start.

And as always, event schedules and details can change, so check with the organizers before heading out.