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Arts & Entertainment

25th Annual Connoisseurs' Marketplace

Connoisseurs’ Marketplace, Menlo Park’s popular festival of the arts celebrates its 25th anniversary saluting the best of summer in style … live jazz, rhythm and blues, rock 'n roll, and party music, a juried show with contemporary fine art and one-of-a-kind crafts by 250 of America's best artists, chefs’ demos, artisan specialty food, health and wellness displays, a green products showcase, home and garden exhibits, festive food and drink with premium wine, microbrews, margaritas and mojitos, a collector car showcase, the cool new Cuda Lounge with comfy couches, flat screen TVs and free swag, and the action-packed kids' fun zone. Admission is free. Presented by the Menlo Park Chamber of Commerce.

 Live Music ... an eclectic, fun-filled mix of classic rock ‘n roll, rhythm and blues, contemporary jazz, dance and party music on stage and street. The free “Saturday After-Hours Concert” will feature David Martin’s House Party, the Bay Area's legendary, high-energy dance band, from 5:30-8 p.m. in Fremont Park. The music lineup includes OTR, Wally's Cocktail Combo, the Brian Ho Trio, SF Bay Jazz, HeartStrings Music, Bob Culbertson and Jeffrey Michael.

 Contemporary Fine Art, Unique Crafts ... 250 of America’s finest artists and craftmakers present their latest handcrafted work in ceramics, glass, fine art, photography, sculpture, jewelry, leather, textiles, metal and wood.

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 Chefs’ Demonstrations ... a festival favorite, chefs from top local restaurants prepare favorite dishes, pass out recipes and share the secrets and shortcuts to kitchen success.

Festive Food & Drink ... fresh roasted corn-on-the-cob, artichoke hearts topped with crab and shrimp, samosas, tandoori chicken, lamb and vegetarian, spit-roasted gyros, falafel, Philly cheesesteaks, fried calamari with cilantro-lime sauce, barbecued oysters, crab cakes, smoked turkey legs, tri-tip and portobello mushroom sandwiches, garlic fries, Hawaiian shredded pork sandwiches, smoked bratwurst and Polish dogs, tamales, tacos, garlic chicken and pork kebobs, pupusas, fish tacos, fish and chips, strawberry shortcake, smoothies, Italian ice and more … complemented by premium wine, microbrews, margaritas and mojitos.

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 Artisan Specialty Food ... sample and savor artisan-produced edibles –– balsamic vinegars and oils, Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, mustard blends, curds and scone mixes, marinades, jams and jellies, honey, butters, chutneys, vinaigrettes, dressings, dessert sauces and more.

Kids’ Fun Zone ... temporary tattoos, bubble art, balloon artists, face painting, inflatible bounces, carnival and train rides, a 24-foot climbing wall, miniature diecast cars, mini Lego figurines, handmade tutus, halos, umbrellas, dresses, shoes and hair accessories for kids.

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