Owning a home isn't just about having a place to binge-watch your favorite shows or store your expertly curated wine collection. It’s one of the most powerful wealth-building tools out there, quietly working in your favor while you go about your daily life. Let’s break down the hidden perks—both financial and lifestyle-driven—that make buying a home one of the smartest moves you can make.
Equity Building
Think of home equity as your stealthy, unassuming sidekick in wealth accumulation. Every mortgage payment chips away at your loan while your property appreciates in value. Over time, this growing equity can become a financial safety net, allowing you to borrow against it, reinvest, or cash out when the time is right. Unlike stocks, which require your constant attention (and sometimes a bottle of aspirin), real estate quietly builds wealth in the background.
Your Property, Your Paycheck
Want to turn your home into a money-making machine? An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) can generate additional income while boosting your home’s overall value Not only do ADUs add square footage, but they make your property more appealing to future buyers looking for multi-purpose homes. Essentially, your home can start working for you passive income never looked so good.
Tapping into Your Hidden Funds
Once you’ve built up equity, you can put it to work through home equity loans or lines of credit Whether it’s funding a major renovation, investing in a new venture, or consolidating debt, these financial tools allow homeowners to leverage their property’s value to access capital.
A Retirement Game Changer
For those enjoying their golden years, a reverse mortgage allows homeowners aged 62 and older to convert part of their home equity into cash without having to sell or move. It’s like having your home pay you back for all those years of loyalty This financial strategy can provide extra income for retirement while ensuring you stay comfortably in your home.
Building A Legacy
Savvy investors know real estate isn’t just about location it’s about legacy. Placing property into a trust can be a powerful estate planning tool, offering tax advantages, smoother inheritance, and long-term protection It’s not just an asset it’s a way to preserve and pass on wealth with intention.
Keeping More of Your Money
Homeowners enjoy several tax benefits that, unfortunately, renters don’t. Mortgage interest deductions and property tax deductions can significantly lower taxable income And when it’s time to sell? The capital gains exclusion allows homeowners to pocket up to $250,000 (or $500,000 for married couples) in profit, tax-free, if they’ve lived in the home for at least two of the last five years
Home ownership is a dynamic financial tool that can be utilized as a wealth-building strategy So, whether you’re house-hunting or already holding the keys, rest easy knowing your home is working for you in more ways than one
When our clients are house hunting with kids (and pups) in tow, we know they want more than just a house. They need a space that keeps the kids happy, the parents sane, and the pups pampered. Here are some kid-friendly (and fur-baby-approved) features we have designed to make life way more fun for everyone!
Why settle for just a bed when you can have an adventure? Custom bunk beds aren’t just space-savers—they can be built-in playgrounds! Think slides, secret hideaways, and cozy reading nooks.
We’ve seen some pretty creative nooks for kiddos! A tiny space for big imaginations, these thoughtful spaces can be transformed into a built-in reading nook, a mini fort, or a hidden under-the-stairs wonderland that gives kids their very own spot to escape to (without actually escaping).
Brushing teeth shouldn’t feel like a rock-climbing adventure. We love that Sarah designed a built-in pull-out step in one of our properties. With a locking mechanism and thoughtfully designed for little ones—it’s pure genius for independent littles! We wish we had thought of that when our kiddos were younger, now we just recommend it to every parent. Want to make things even easier? Add a spout extender for the extra-littles— because sink acrobatics should be optional, not required!
Years of motherhood has taught much of our team one thing—tiny fingers and slamming doors are a tragic combo. We've seen our fair share of tearyeyed moments over pinched fingers, and no one likes a cabinet that bites back! Something as simple, and often overlooked, as soft-close hinges is a total game-changer. They keep little hands safe, the peace intact, and best of all—eliminate yet another source of bangs and clatters. Because let’s face it, kids bring enough noise without the cabinets joining in!
Encourage independence and make tidying up less of a battle, with pull-out lower closet racks. We can’t recommend them enough! Kids can actually reach their own clothes and maybe, just maybe, even put them away without a struggle.
Being a parent is a chapter in many of our lives that we thoroughly enjoy, and we see that same excitement in our clients that have kids and furbabies. While getting the house itself is a big win, it’s the thoughtful details that truly make it a dream home. The kid-friendly touches aren’t just conveniences; they’re what turn a house into a space that works
Mudroom Magic
A mudroom designed for the whole family, even the fur-children! Installing a built-in dog bowl station with a water spout means easy refills and no more sloshing water bowls.
A Cozy Dog Nook
Got a nook but no small children to reimagine the space? How about a dedicated pup-sized retreat, perfect for mid-day snoozes and organizing your fur-child’s accessories?
A Dog Wash Station
If not a whole station, try a designated paw washing area because muddy paws and rugs don’t mix. A waist-high dog shower keeps bath time easy and mess-free!
Our design is driven by ROI and ROE—return on investment and return on enjoyment. More than just stunning before-and-after photos, each space captures a moment of transformation, reflecting the craft poured into each home.
Sometimes, bold moves pay off.
This home had a rough start—purchased by a couple with plans to renovate and stay, only to have life pull them in another direction. They were suddenly left with a home in disrepair, mounting holding costs, and the pressure to break even.
We moved quickly, focusing on impact. We didn’t do everything, but we did a lot—and fast. One of our favorite choices? Painting the exterior black. A little avant-garde, sure, but paired with the brass accents, it caught the light just right and gave the home a striking, modern presence.
In the end, it sold beautifully. And the couple? They sent a note to everyone involved, full of gratitude. Because design isn’t just about how something looks—it’s about helping people land on their feet.
This home was full of good energy. It was a well-loved space where longtime clients raised a beautiful family. It wasn’t falling apart, but it hadn’t been updated in years. Still, it had that rare kind of warmth you can’t stage.
We wanted the design to reflect that spirit. So we started with the front door—a bold, bright color that felt joyful and welcoming, just like the home itself.
They had a standing offer from a major development group, but our goal was to take it to market and beat it. The biggest challenge? The freeway—close enough to hear. We used strategic landscaping and carefully placed trees to soften the noise and shift the focus back to the house.
The result: a refreshed, soulful home that sold on its own terms.
This one was all about strategy.
The homeowners interviewed three realtors, and the highest price anyone estimated it would sell for was $6.3M. We saw more—but we knew it would take vision.
With a $350K budget, we couldn’t do everything—so we concentrated our efforts where it would count most, starting with the exterior to maximize curb appeal. Inside, we made one thoughtful but impactful change: the door to the primary suite.
The homeowners never liked its placement, and chances are, buyers wouldn’t either. So we moved it. It may sound small, but with the right team, it was the kind of tweak that changes how a space feels.
The result? The home sold for over $8M. Strategic design, executed well, doesn’t just transform spaces—it transforms outcomes.
This home belonged to a couple who are true pillars of the community—known for their warmth, their gatherings, their generosity. They’ve hosted countless celebrations here, and the home holds decades of joyful memories.
But now, as empty nesters, they’re ready for a new chapter—one in the city. We stepped in ready to gently turn the page on this one.
We approached the design with one key goal: to honor their legacy, but not let it overshadow the listing. We wanted potential buyers—especially locals who know and admire them—to see possibility, not just history. So we gave the home a fresh identity. A soft reinvention.
Still gracious and welcoming, but now ready for someone else’s story to begin.
Perfect Balance Striking the Between Splurge and Save
When it comes to home design, the big question is always: "Where should we splurge, and When it comes to home design, the big question is always: "Where should we splurge, and where can we save?" As much as Sarah and Danni would love an unlimited budget where can we save?" As much as Sarah and Danni would love an unlimited budget (wouldn’t we all?), that’s never the reality. But honestly, that’s part of the fun—figuring out (wouldn’t we all?), that’s never the reality. But honestly, that’s part of the fun—figuring out how to stretch every dollar to create a space that’s both stunning and practical. The first how to stretch every dollar to create a space that’s both stunning and practical. The first question is always, "Can we get a bigger budget?" And, well... the answer is usually no. So question is always, "Can we get a bigger budget?" And, well... the answer is usually no. So the next challenge becomes where to invest for the biggest impact—both in financial value the next challenge becomes where to invest for the biggest impact—both in financial value and everyday enjoyment. Because smart design isn’t just about spending—it’s about and everyday enjoyment. Because smart design isn’t just about spending—it’s about spending wisely. spending wisely.
TSG refreshed an original mid-century TSG refreshed an original mid-century modern door with a jewel toned paint and modern door with a jewel toned paint and updated the door pulls updated door pulls.
Save Splurge
Front Door
One of the first places we love to focus on? The front door. A beautifully crafted, custom door with One of the first places we love to focus on? The front door. A beautifully crafted, custom door with unique hardware can make a serious statement—but doors can get pricey. If the budget allows, it’s a unique hardware can make a serious statement—but doors can get pricey. If the budget allows, it’s a worthwhile splurge. Think sleek modern designs or a classic solid wood door, paired with designer worthwhile splurge. Think sleek modern designs or a classic solid wood door, paired with designer knobs and pulls for that high-end feel. If a custom door isn’t in the cards, no worries! A fresh coat of knobs and pulls for that high-end feel. If a custom door isn’t in the cards, no worries! A fresh coat of paint and a hardware upgrade can work wonders, giving even the simplest door a stylish, welcoming paint and a hardware upgrade can work wonders, giving even the simplest door a stylish, welcoming refresh—without blowing the budget. refresh—without blowing the budget.
This Crate & Barrel island has been customized with a fresh countertop and customized with a fresh countertop and hardware that matches the rest of the hardware that matches the rest of the kitchen. kitchen
This Crate & Barrel island has been
Kitchen Island
The kitchen is known as the heart of the home. You’ll often find The Sharpies gathered around the kitchen island for meetings with clients and allied partners
Splurge
This dreamy island is made of custom
This dreamy island is made of custom cabinetry and a gorgeous custom calacatta cabinetry and a gorgeous custom calacatta oro marble countertop - 3” lamination of oro marble countertop - 3” lamination of course for ultimate durability course for ultimate durability
We know this space needs love and attention and deciding whether to splurge on a custom island or save with a prefab version is a key decision. Custom kitchen islands can become a beautiful focal point, but if your budget doesn’t stretch that far, a prefab island with upgraded details can still give you the function and style you need.
Splurge
This fully custom vanity features a 6” This fully custom vanity features a 6” lamination, crema marble on top of a custom lamination, crema marble on top of a custom white oak floating drawers, complete with white oak floating drawers, complete with undermounted, motion sensor lighting undermounted, motion sensor lighting.
Bathroom Vanities
Bathroom vanities take up a small portion of a home, but designing them still comes with the same dilemma: splurge or save? A custom vanity with high-end materials and thoughtful design can completely elevate a bathroom. But a prefab vanity and a little creativity can do the trick too! Swap out the countertop, upgrade the faucets, and suddenly, you’ve got the look of custom without the cost of custom. Because great design isn’t just about spending more—it’s about spending wisely.
This bathroom came out beautifully, using This bathroom came out beautifully, using a prefabricated floating vanity from a prefabricated floating vanity from Restoration Hardware Restoration Hardware.
Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor spaces are the ultimate playground for contrast in design budgets. A custom-built outdoor kitchen with luxurious finishes can transform a backyard into a seamless extension of your home— practically begging for summer cookouts and al fresco dinners. But if the unlimited budget fairy hasn’t made an appearance (as she so often doesn’t), Sarah and Danni know how to dial it back without sacrificing function. Prefab outdoor kitchens still bring plenty to the table, offering all the essentials for grilling and entertaining. Whether you go all out or keep it simple, the goal is the same: making outdoor living effortless and, most importantly, enjoyable.
This spacious yard is ideal for entertaining This spacious yard is ideal for entertaining and the prefab kitchen pieces that frame and the prefab kitchen pieces that frame the BBQ grill pull it all together the BBQ grill pull it all together.
Big budget or small, great design comes down to smart spending—and Sarah and Danni have mastered it. With a mix of strategy and creativity, they show how even small changes can make a space feel stylish, personal, and totally livable. For their clients, it's not just about looks—it’s about value and making everyday life feel a little more special.
The Rise of Personalized Luxury
Luxury living on the Mid-Peninsula is no longer defined by square footage or ZIP codes—it’s about individuality, intention, and a lifestyle that feels entirely your own. Today’s discerning buyers want homes that reflect their needs and personal style. Whether it’s a wellness-inspired retreat, a bespoke bathroom designed for daily rituals, or an ADU crafted for multigenerational living or remote work, luxury is now about thoughtful customization.
Read on to explore the trends shaping this new era of living.
ADUs
Enter the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) the luxury home feature that's evolved beyond a guest suite into something entirely new.
More and more Peninsula homes are incorporating these detached, private spaces, blending functionality with style Need a secluded home office or a personal yoga studio? Done. Want a pampering retreat for guests while keeping your main house your own? Easy. ADUs aren’t just about practicality– they enhance your home’s overall enjoyment factor.
Hosting a grand soirée? Set up the ADU as a stylish cocktail lounge. These versatile spaces aren’t just about adding square footage they’re about elevating how you experience your home.
Bringingthe OutsideIn
BiophilicDesign
Luxury living on the Peninsula blends indoor and outdoor spaces for ultimate comfort. Floor-to-ceiling windows that open to lush gardens, sleek infinity pools that flow into the horizon, and serene terraces all create a seamless connection with nature. Biophilic design is on the rise, incorporating elements like living walls, natural wood finishes, and water features to enhance well-being.
Today’s high-end homes emphasize personalization, wellness, and a fluid connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, turning every square foot into an experience For those lucky enough to call the Peninsula home, it's the perfect setting to indulge in unparalleled luxury. Whether it’s a spa-inspired bathroom with a private garden, a state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen, or a custom-designed wine cellar, your home should reflect your lifestyle Here, where the sky meets the bay, your dream home is only limited by imagination.
WellnessatHome
Think steam showers with heated floors, infra-red saunas, cold-plunge tubs, and stateof-the-art gyms with top-tier equipment. Where homes don’t have room for a sauna or cold-plunge indoors, we are frequently placing them in the back or side yard of properties with custom details that allow them to beautifully blend into the landscape. And in some cases, extra bedrooms or family rooms are transformed into workout spaces Having access to what makes you feel your best at home is the real luxury HomeGymsandMore
Wellness is the new luxury, and it’s about more than just a home gym. High-end homes now feature resort-style amenities, turning everyday spaces into sanctuaries of relaxation.
DualVanityBathrooms
ALittleSpaceforEveryone
We like to joke that dual vanity bathrooms are the secret to long-lasting happiness. But no matter if you’re sharing or have it all to yourself, one thing’s for sure—having a private retreat that is customized to your style and taste would be dreamy. More homes are taking bathroom inspiration from spas and highend hotels - spa-like indulgence with bespoke vanities, soaking tubs, and sleek fixtures create a luxurious look and feel.
SEXY
UNSEXY THE SNEAKY HOME ISSUES
THAT COULD HAUNT YOU LATER
One of the toughest things to watch is someone buying their dream home—only to discover some sneaky, costly surprises lurking beneath the surface. We’ve all heard the horror stories, and trust us, we’ve seen our fair share. That’s why, when we help clients navigate their next purchase, our philosophy is simple: over-educate, never under. No stone left unturned, no detail too small! Here are some of the top hidden troublemakers we help our clients avoid—so their dream home doesn’t give them nightmares.
GETTING INSURANCE
One of the less glamorous (but absolutely critical) parts of buying a home today? Securing homeowners insurance. In California— especially in recent years—it’s become increasingly challenging. With a rise in natural disasters and insurance companies scaling back or exiting the state altogether, buyers are now facing pricier premiums, reduced coverage options, and even policy cancellations.
If you're purchasing with a loan, homeowners insurance isn’t optional—it’s required to close escrow. Cash buyers have the choice to "selfinsure," but we always recommend securing coverage. After all, this is likely your biggest asset.
Having helped hundreds of buyers navigate this process, we know how important it is to assess the insurance landscape before making an offer. That’s why we dig into a property's disclosures with insurance in mind, identifying any red flags that might limit insurability or drive up your costs.
The reality is nearly 75% of homes in our area were built before 1980. Meaning many still have original or outdates systems. That’s not necessarily a deal-breaker, but it’s something buyers need to factor into their plans and budget. We help our clients understand which things are fixable, which are costly, and which are worth it.
It’s not sexy. But it’s smart. And being proactive here gives our buyers the edge they need in a competitive market.
HIDDEN PERMIT PROBLEMS
Not all upgrades are created equal—especially the ones done without permits. That shiny bonus room or updated kitchen might look great in photos, but if the work wasn’t permitted or inspected, it could be a legal or financial headache later on. We help our buyers ask the right questions and review disclosures carefully to catch this stuff early. Sometimes it’s a simple fix, other times it’s a big red flag.
ANDARD ATED CALSETUPS
Vintage charm is one thing—vintage wiring is another. We frequently see homes with knob-and-tube wiring, ungrounded outlets, or patchwork panels that don’t meet current safety codes. These setups can complicate insurance, require costly updates, or out for what’s behind the walls, not just the paint color on them.
LOWWATERP ORAGINGPIPE
No one dreams of buying a home and dealing with trickling showers or surprise plumbing repairs. But many older homes still have galvanized pipes or aging plumbing systems that can cause both. During inspections, we help our clients pay attention to water pressure and look for signs of corrosion or leaks. It’s not glamorous, but it’s definitely something you want to know before you move in.
HISTORICPROPERTY RESTRICTIONS
Historic homes are stunning—but they come with strings attached. If a property is in a historic district or officially designated, there may be strict rules around renovations, materials, or even paint colors. These can limit what you can do with the home (and how much it’ll cost). It's important to understand these restrictions before buy there surprises when it's time to make it your own.
WINDOW INSULATI WOES
That beautiful bay window might killer view—but if it's single-pane drafty, your energy bills could Many older homes haven’t had upgrades, and poor insulation heating or cooling a real struggle. our buyers weigh the charm-versus-cost tradeoff when it comes to windows energy efficiency.
THEAFTER-ESCROW ADVANTAGE
Relationships with clients don't end when the keys change hands. Over the years, we’ve helped countless buyers not only purchase smartly but also confidently tackle the lessglamorous upgrades that come with homeownership.
Some of the most common updates we’ve helped our buyers coordinate include:
Removing knob & tube wiring and updating electrical systems
Adding EV chargers
Roof and gutter replacements
Foundation repairs and seismic retrofits
Sewer lateral updates
HVAC upgrades (and adding A/C)
Flooring refreshes
Painting projects
New water heaters
It’s not just about spotting the unsexy pride ourselves on being a trusted partner question or connecting you with reliable is to make sure it’s also a smart one—now, and for years to come.
THEBOTTOMLINE ISTHATSOME HOMESURPRISES AREFUN.
(Like finding out you have a hidden storage nook!) Others? Not so much. By doing a little more than the normal due diligence before you buy—or a smart renovation plan—you can save yourself from sneaky, budgetbusting repairs later.
Filoli is one of the many great gifts of the Peninsula, dating back to 1917 when it was built for William Bowers Bourn II as a summer retreat. It opened its 654 acres to the public in 1975 and has been the site of countless events, exploration and enjoyment for locals and visitors from across the globe.
Deriving its name, Fi-lo-li, by combining the first two letters of the commanding words of Bourn’s personal credo – “Fight for just cause. Love your fellow man. Live a good life.” What wise words!
Beyond the 54,000 square foot Georgian-style mansion, English Renaissance Gardens and Gentleman’s Orchard, there are Natural Lands and six distinct ecosystems. These ecosystems include redwood groves, grasslands, oak-madrone forests, chaparral, grasslands, a reservoir and natural springs and creeks.
There is a one mile self-guided trail that will take you through some of this natural beauty, including an opportunity to cross over Fault Creek Bridge, where you technically leave the North American Plate for the Pacific Plate, crossing the famous San Andreas Fault.
There is no best time of the year to visit this magical place, but Patricia and her family do look forward to the winter holiday time, when the house and gardens are aglow with outdoor lights and décor to get you in the spirit.
“We love to get hot chocolate or wine and wander through the property at dusk, enjoying the respite from the holiday bustle. And as a member, I always have this on my list to bring friends and family to while they’re in town. Evenings in summer is another fun time to visit, when they have live music and local food trucks, and you can even go for a hike at sunset. I just feel blessed that it’s basically in our backyard and it’s so spectacular.”
When summer hits, there’s nothing like a perfectly crafted cocktail to celebrate the season.
We’ve shaken up a cocktail lineup that blends history, craftsmanship, and a splash of TSG personality. Whether you’re craving something bold and rich, bright and tropical, or effortlessly sippable, we’ve got just the mix. And because we believe luxury should be enjoyed at home, we’re sharing the recipes—so you can stir, shake, and sip like a pro, right from your own kitchen. Cheers!
The TSG Espresso Martini
A Nod to Our Coffee Obsession
2 oz vodka
1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
1 oz freshly brewed espresso (cooled)
1/2 oz simple syrup
Ice Coffee beans, for garnish
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with coffee beans and enjoy the perfect balance of bold and creamy.
A well-crafted coffee is a daily ritual around here. But when the summer heat kicks in, we like to cool it down and spike it up. Inspired by our love for local spots like Backhaus and a good time, we’re all about boozy coffee done right. Try an iced espresso cocktail to keep the energy going and for a smooth, sippable treat
Carol’s Matcha Spritz
A Luxurious Summer Refresh
1 1/2 oz gin
1/2 oz elderflower liqueur
1/2 oz lemon juice
1/2 tsp high-quality matcha powder
3 oz club soda
Ice Lemon twist for garnish
Whisk matcha with lemon juice until smooth. Shake with gin, elderflower liqueur, and ice, then strain into a glass over fresh ice. Top with club soda and garnish with a lemon wheel.
For some of us, matcha isn’t just a drink—it’s a ritual, a refresh, and in this case, the star of a seriously sippable summer spritz.
Inspired by Carol’s love for matcha, wellness, and elevated living, this drink is all about mindful indulgence because why choose between feeling good and living well? The earthy depth of matcha, the floral notes of elderflower, and the crisp fizz of club soda make it the ultimate patio pour. Whether you’re unwinding after a morning at the Burlingame Farmers’ Market or raising a glass to a day well spent
Debbie’s Rosé Sangria
1 bottle dry rosé
1/4 cup brandy
1/4 cup orange liqueur (like Grand Marnier)
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup fresh raspberries
1/4 cup sliced strawberries
1/2 orange, thinly sliced
1/2 lemon, thinly sliced
Sparkling water, to top
Mix all ingredients except sparkling water in a pitcher and let sit for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight). Serve over ice and top with sparkling water for a light, refreshing finish.
Debbie knows that in both real estate and wine, value isn’t just about price—it’s about craftsmanship. A well-made rosé sangria is easy to prepare, effortlessly elegant, and full of depth. This sangria highlights the best of a dry rosé, pairing it with vibrant citrus, berries, and a splash of brandy for an added layer of sophistication. Perfect for a summer soirée or a relaxed evening on the patio, this drink is as versatile as it is delicious
Brittni’s Tropical Cooler
A Family-Friendly Favorite
1/2 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup coconut water
1/4 cup orange juice
1/2 oz lime juice
Ice
Mint and pineapple wedge for garnish
(For adults: add 1 1/2 oz white rum or tequila)
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a tall glass. Garnish with mint and a pineapple wedge for that perfect summer touch.
Brittni is all about community and family, so we needed a cocktail that could do double duty: a fruity, vibrant drink for summer gatherings that can be served with or without alcohol. Just like a well-loved home, this drink brings people together welcoming, refreshing, and full of bright personality. Whether served poolside or at a weekend barbecue, this is the perfect sip for both kids (minus the booze of course!) and adults
Ready to Sip?
These four cocktails celebrate the essence of summer in the Mid Peninsula—crafted with care and designed to be enjoyed in great company. Whether you're mixing these up at home or heading to one of our favorite local spots, there’s no better way to toast the season. Cheers to long summer nights and even better drinks!
A Seaso estivities A Season estivities
Ah, summer on the Mid-Peninsula—where the days are long, the nights are warm, and there’s no shortage of ways to indulge. Whether you’re soaking up live music, swirling a glass of wine, or racing to claim the last funnel cake, this season is all about making the most of our gorgeous backyard. Here's how to do summer right on the Peninsula.
August 15th - 17th
FOSTER CITY SUMMER DAYS: Where Summer Comes Alive
If summer had a highlight, it would be Foster City Summer Days. Now in its 4th year, this vibrant event brings together the best of community, fun, and tradition. From thrilling carnival rides to the quirky Duck Scavenger Hunt, there’s something for everyone.
Set against the beautiful backdrop of Leo Ryan Park, the weekend is filled with local food trucks, a vintage car show, and live music, including headliner Mercy and the Heartbeats. Explore handmade treasures from Bay Area artisans and connect with Foster City’s local non-profits at the community booths.
Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, Foster City Summer Days is the perfect Peninsula tradition to kick off your summer.
MILLBRAE ART & WINE FESTIVAL
Sip, Stroll, and Soak in the Vibes
Every Labor Day weekend, downtown Millbrae transforms into an outdoor paradise. The Millbrae Art & Wine Festival is where you can browse handcrafted masterpieces, groove to live music, and sample some of the best wines and craft beers around—all while basking in that perfect end-of-summer sunshine.
But it's more than just sipping and shopping—it's a true community event. Local businesses open their doors to welcome visitors, and you will likely run into local youth sports teams showing off their spirit. Artisans, local food vendors, and families all come together to celebrate the Peninsula’s vibrant culture.
August 30th & 31st
BURLINGAME & SAN MATEO’S MUSIC IN THE PARK: Summer Nights Done Right
Live music under the stars just screams summer! Both San Mateo’s Central Park and Burlingame’s Washington Park host free outdoor concerts throughout the season, giving locals the perfect excuse to grab a picnic blanket and unwind to some seriously good tunes.
With everything from jazz and blues to rock and Latin beats, these concerts turn our parks into backyard block parties—minus the hassle of hosting. Food trucks roll in, families and friends spread out on the grass, and before you know it, you’re dancing under the summer sky. Whether you come for the music or the people-watching, this is how summer evenings are meant to be spent.
BURLINGAME WINE WALK:
A Classy Stroll With a Side of Sauvignon
If you enjoy wine and shopping, we have the perfect summer afternoon for you—be sure to catch the Burlingame Wine Walk.
Held along Burlingame Avenue and Broadway, this annual event lets attendees sip their way through a curated selection of wines from renowned vineyards while soaking in the city’s vibrant dining and shopping scene. Think of it as a self-guided tasting tour with a side of retail therapy. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just here for the vibes, this event blends luxury and leisure in the best way possible.
If you haven’t strolled through the Burlingame Farmers’ Market on a Thursday afternoon, are you even living your best Peninsula life? This weekly gathering of local farmers, artisans, and food lovers is the perfect excuse to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and fill your basket with the freshest produce and gourmet treats around.
The best way to do it? Grab a locally roasted coffee, browse the market’s seasonal offerings, and then settle in for a long, lazy lunch at one of Burlingame’s top eateries. It’s the perfect way to support local farmers, embrace farm-to-table living, and soak in the summer on a Thursday afternoon.