Bay Area CA 2024-25

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

Laughter is often called the best medicine, and for good reason. It’s a universal language that transcends borders and cultures, bringing joy and connection to people worldwide. But have you ever wondered why we love to chuckle so much? In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating science of laughter, the benefits it brings, and why it’s such a fundamental part of the human experience.

neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This chemical rush is why we often feel so good after a hearty laugh.

The Biology of Laughter: A Brainy Affair

When you laugh, your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals. Endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, flood your system, creating a sense of euphoria and reducing stress. Laughter also triggers the release of dopamine, a

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The Social Glue: Connecting Through Chuckles

Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it’s also a powerful social tool. Evolutionary scientists believe that laughter evolved as a way for early humans to bond and strengthen social bonds.

When we laugh with others, it signals trust and positive interaction, reinforcing social connections.

The Laughter Contagion: Yawns Are Out, Laughter Is In

You’ve probably experienced

EVENTS 2024

Apr 7

San Francisco International Chocolate Salon

Chocolate aficionados, fanatics, lovers and addicts can taste & experience the finest in artisan, gourmet & premium chocolate in one of the world’s great culinary metropolitan areas. The Original and Premier Artisan Chocolate Festival on the West Coast takes place at the San Francisco International Chocolate Salon. Learn more at sftravel.com.

Apr 24

SFFILM Festival

The SFFILM Festival is about film appreciation—film as an art form and as a meaningful force for cultural expansion and social change. The Festival showcases the most innovative films from around the globe, and from filmmakers who call the Bay Area home. You can’t miss in-person events, fantastic parties, thought-provoking talks, and so much more. Learn more at sftravel.com.

Apr 25

San Francisco Art Fair

Art Market San Francisco is now San Francisco Art Fair. This evolution is a direct affirmation of the fair’s commitment to the thriving arts ecosystem that defines the Bay Area. Continuing the fair’s dedication to San Francisco’s vibrant cultural institutions, active collecting community, and vital notion of unwavering patronage, San Francisco Art Fair is a year-round platform for the many voices of its region. Learn more at sftravel.com.

Apr 27

Cherry Blossom Festival

The annual Cherry Blossom Festival honoring Cupertino’s sister city of Toyokawa, Japan offers a wide selection of Japanese food and beverages, entertainment, demonstrations, cultural exhibits, art, crafts and clothing for sale. All-day entertainment takes place in the Amphitheatre. Learn more at visitsiliconvalley.org.

Restaurants

Lazy Bear

The revered pop-up gets a permanent setting with this midcentury space serving New American cuisine.

3416 19th St, San Francisco, CA 94110

Phone: (415) 874-9921 | Web: www.lazybearsf.com

Commis

Open-kitchen experiments with unique ingredients to craft inspired New American fixed-price dinners.

3859 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA 94611

Phone: (510) 653-3902 | Web: commisrestaurant.com

Californios

Mexican restaurant for inventive tasting menus & small-batch wines served in a cozy, luxe interior.

355 11th St, San Francisco, CA 94103

Phone: (415) 757-0994 | Web: www.californiossf.com

Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?

Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.

Gary Danko

Renowned chef Gary Danko’s menus of American cuisine in an elegant but unstuffy setting.

800 North Point St, San Fran, CA

Waterbar Restaurant

Stylish seafood spot with oysters, a bar & patio with up-close views of Bay Bridge.

399 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA

Top Hatters Kitchen

A light-filled neighborhood venue for seasonal, family-style dishes with an international flair.

855 MacArthur Blvd, San Leandro, CA

Benu

Minimalist SoMa spot with innovative, American cuisine and renowned tasting menu.

22 Hawthorne St, San Fran, CA

Juanita & Maude

Intimate neighborhood outpost for wine, cocktails & refined American dishes.

825 San Pablo Ave, Albany, CA

Mägo

Stylish neighborhood venue with a rotating menu of woodfired Northern California fare & drinks.

3762 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA

Bellota

Refined Spanish bistro with wood-fired mains, paella, tapas & wines in rustic-chic digs.

888 Brannan St, San Fran, CA

Rich Table

Californian fare from local ingredients, served in a barn-wood space with an open kitchen.

199 Gough St, San Fran, CA

Saison

Open-kitchen space in a historic building known for luxe, innovative French-American menus.

178 Townsend St, San Fran, CA

Acquerello

High-end Italian cuisine & wines served in a converted chapel with vaulted, wood-beam ceilings

1722 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA

EVENTS 2024

May 5

A La Carte & Art Festival

The San Francisco Bay Area’s popular outdoor festival season officially springs into action in downtown Mountain View where cool, bustling, strollfriendly Castro Street is transformed into a resplendent sea of people and colorful tents for A La Carte & Art. This family oriented features music, car show, arts & crafts, food and fun! Learn more at visitsiliconvalley.org.

May 12

San Francisco International Arts Festival

SFIAF presents the work of innovative artists from the Bay Area and around the world; many of the international artists make their US debut at the Festival. Learn more at sfiaf.org.

May 19

Bay To Breakers

This historic 12k fun run through the streets of San Francisco is over 100 years in the making. It’s a race made for everyone, so dress up, bring your friends and be cheered on every step of the way by SF’s finest crowds. Pushing boundaries and breaking records since 1912 – it’s your turn to join the party. Learn more at sftravel.com.

Jun 1

Union Street Festival

The street comes alive with festivals that are family oriented, featuring arts & crafts, live music, great food, entertainment, children’s activities and more. Learn more at unionstfestival.com.

Jun 9

19th Annual International Queer Women of Color Film Festival

The 19th anniversary Film Festival will premiere 30 films in 6 screenings. From the lush sageness of memory, movement, and Indigenous traditions of environmental stewardship, to the transformation of grief, and the mycorrhizal relationships between love, collective care, and disability

EVENTS 2024

justice, the Festival Focus “Forever Rooted” liberates spores of sovereignty and survival. Learn more at presidiotheatre.org.

Jun 19

Frameline San Francisco International LGBTQ Film Festival

The longest-running, largest and most widely LGBTQ cinema film exhibition in the world, Frameline San Francisco International LGBTQ Film Festival screens groundbreaking documentaries, features, touching short films and cinematic classics. Learn more at frameline.org.

Jun 29

San Francisco Pride

The Mission of the San Francisco Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Pride Celebration Committee is to educate the world, commemorate our heritage, celebrate our culture, and liberate our people. Learn more at sfpride.org.

Jul 4

4th Of July Extravaganza

Celebrate Independence Day at the All City Picnic at Central Park beginning at 12:00 pm with carnival games, face painting, jump houses and more for the kids and free recreational swimming at the International Swim Center. Stay for a patriotic fireworks display at 9:30 pm. Learn more at visitsiliconvalley.org.

Jul 6

Fillmore Jazz Festival

Three stages of continuous jazz performances, more than 300 artists’ booths, and international food courts with some of the best food and beverages that San Francisco has to offer. Learn more at fillmorejazzfest.com.

Jul 17

San Francisco Frozen Film Festival

Showcasing the year’s best new independent avant-garde pop culture films, the Frozen Film Festival takes its name from the distinct chill of the San Francisco summer. Learn more at frozenfilmfestival.com.

the phenomenon of contagious laughter. When someone near you starts laughing, you can’t help but join in, even if you’re not sure what’s so funny.

cortisol, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

This contagious nature of laugh ter is thought to be linked to our mirror neuron system, which activates when we observe someone else’s actions or emotions. In essence, when we see or hear laughter, our brains mimic it, compelling us to laugh along.

The Health Benefits: A Chuckle a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the ways laughter can boost your well-being:

Stress Reduction: Laugh ter reduces the production of stress hormones like

Pain Relief: Laughing triggers the release of endorphins, which can temporarily alleviate pain and discomfort.

Improved Immunity: Regular laughter has been linked to enhanced immune function, helping the body fight off illnesses.

Better Mood: Laughter can elevate mood and combat feelings of depression by increasing the release of dopamine.

Strengthened Relationships: Sharing laughs with friends and loved ones fosters stronger social

bonds and increases feelings of connectedness.

The Laughter Prescription: Make Time for Chuckles

Incorporating laughter into your daily life is a simple yet effective way to improve your well-being. Here are some tips to get your daily dose of giggles:

Watch Comedy: Enjoy a funny movie, stand-up comedy show, or your favorite sitcom to trigger laughter.

Spend Time with Funny Friends: Surround yourself with peo ple who have a good sense of humor and enjoy sharing laughter.

Laughter

Find Humor in Everyday Life: Seek out the humor in everyday situations and don’t take life too seriously.

Share Funny Stories: Share funny anecdotes and jokes with friends and family to create laughter-filled moments.

Embrace the Chuckles

Laughter is a powerful and joyful force in our lives. It connects us, reduces stress, and brings a myriad of health

Yoga: Join a laughter yoga class or practice laughter exercises at home to reap the benefits of intentional laughter.

So, the next time you find yourself in the midst of hearty laughter, remember that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your brain and body a much-needed boost.

Embrace the chuckles, share a joke, and let laughter light up your life. After all, as the saying goes, laughter truly is the best medicine!

EVENTS 2024

Jul 19

Carnivale At Orleans Place At California’s Great America

Foodies enjoy tasty regional Cajun cuisine, like chicken and sausage gumbo, crawfish boil, crawfish fritters, fried oyster po’ boys, beignets, praline bread pudding, creole shrimp and crab cheesecake, and more! Exciting jazz and cajun bands roam the festival throughout the day. And the colorful cajun festival closes each evening with a light show down the midway and a Taste of Orleans fireworks show set to Cajun music. Learn more at siliconvalley.org.

Aug 3

The Renegade Craft Fair

The best makers of handmade goods from the Bay Area and beyond assemble for this free-to-attend marketplace for indie-craft culture, featuring interactive workshops. Learn more at renegadecraft.com.

Aug 4

Annual Italian Family Festa

Authentic Italian foods, a great variety of continuous entertainment, arts and crafts, and an extensive historical photo display of the local Italian American community. Learn more at visitsiliconvalley.org.

August 5

Nihonmachi Street Fair

Live musical and cultural performances, Asian artisans, food, information tables, exhibits, Children’s World and Doggie World are all a part of the festivities. Learn more at nihonmachistreetfair.org.

Aug 9

Outside Lands Music & Arts Festival

Outside Lands in Golden Gate Park has upped the ante on music festivals going green and “leveraged San Francisco’s food, wine, technology and activism cultures, “according to Rolling Stone, “for a one-of-a-kind worldclass experience.” Learn more at sfoutsidelands.com.

EVENTS 2024

Aug 24

Palo Alto Festival Of The Arts

The Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce presents the annual Palo Alto Festival of the Arts! For two days, Downtown University Avenue becomes home to 300 fine art and contemporary craft displays, Italian street painting, kids’ art studio, sculpture plaza, stage and street entertainment. Learn more at siliconvalley.org.

Sep 7

Mountain View Art & Wine Festival

The Mountain View Art and Wine Festival is one of the largest and most beloved festivals in the Bay Area - and this year it will be even bigger! We’re featuring over 350 of the region’s finest artists and craft-makers, stellar live music, tons of activities, and, of course, fabulously curated food and drink. Learn more at mvartwine.com.

Sep 10

Hozier

Andrew John Hozier-Byrne, known professionally as Hozier, is an Irish musician, singer and songwriter. His music primarily draws from folk, soul and blues, often using religious and literary themes and a political or social justice stance. Hozier is a talented artist you won’t want to miss! Visit hozier.com.

Sep 14

California Renaissance Faire At Casa De Fruta

tep back in time to Renaissance Europe! Watch acts on 5 different stages, enjoy hearty ales and delicious food along with handmade crafts, rides and activities. Learn more at siliconvalley.org.

Sep 23

SF Chinatown Autumn Moon Festival

This Chinatown event features multicultural entertainment, traditional lion and dragon dances, arts and crafts, lantern village, moon cakes and children’s activities. Learn more at moonfestival.org.

Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions:

1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~ In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.

2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~ Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise,

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EVENTS 2024

Oct 6

Castro Street Fair

Arts and crafts booths, live entertainment, dancing and music are all part of the fun at Castro Steet Fair, a gay-friendly street festival. Learn more at castrostreetfair.org.

Oct 6

Benise Fiesta

For Benise, music has always been a journey. From his humble beginnings as a street performer, to being featured on the #1 rated show in the USA – Dancing With The Stars, and performing around the world. “I wanted to push the boundaries of Nuevo Flamenco/Spanish guitar while combining the elements of dance and theater. This show is a celebration of all the shows we’ve done over the last 20 years,” comments composer, virtuoso guitarist and creative force behind the event. Learn more at campbellaca.gov.

Oct 13

Italian Heritage Festival & Parade

San Francisco’s Italian-American Community celebrates the Italian Heritage Festival & Parade, featuring Italian and Italian-American dignitaries, music, performances, floats, and representatives of Italian and Italian-American organizations and businesses. Learn more at sfitalianheritage.org.

Oct 15

Los Altos Fall Festival

Join the community in celebrating fall with live entertainment, fine wine and microbreweries, a classic car show, delicious food, a kids area full of fun and games, arts and crafts booths and so much more! Learn more at visitsiliconvalley.org.

Nov 9

Sundance Stompede

Sundance Stompede is San Francisco’s annual country-western weekend for the LGBTQ community and allies. Join hundreds of cowboys and cowgirls

cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.

3. India: Samosas ~

Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.

4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~

Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience. Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.

5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~ Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.

6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~ Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.

7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.

8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.

Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!

BILLY DEFRANK LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY CENTER

Provides community, leadership, advocacy, services and support to the Silicon Valley’s LGBTQ+ People and their Allies. Web: defrankcenter.org.

PACIFIC CENTER FOR HUMAN GROWTH

The Pacific Center for Human Growth, or simply the Pacific Center, is a community center focusing on LGBT people. Web: www.pacificcenter.org

SF LGBT CENTER

The Center supports the needs of the entire LGBTQ community and allies through robust programming. We also connect people to a rich network of organizations in San Francisco serving the LGBTQ community. Web: sfcenter.org

SOLANO PRIDE CENTER

Working to ensure that the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, and Intersex individuals have a network of resources and educational tools to meet their needs. Web: solanopride.org

QUEER LIFESPACE

Providing affordable queer mental health services for the LGBTQIA+ community in San Francisco and beyond. Web: queerlifespace.org

PFLAG SF

PFLAG SF promotes the health and well being of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and gender expansive persons, their families and friends, through support to cope with an adverse society, education to enlighten an ill-informed public, and advocacy to end discrimination and to secure equal civil rights. Web; pflagsf.org

THE SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS

The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) is the world’s first openly gay chorus. Since its premiere performance on the steps of City Hall with 100 members singing to stand up against discrimination and bigotry, the chorus has inspired the worldwide LGBTQIA+ choral movement. Web: sfgmc.org

EVENTS 2024

as they dance their feet off with three days of workshops and three nights of open dancing. Learn more at stompede.com.

Nov 10

San Francisco International Hip Hop DanceFest

The San Francisco Hip-Hop Dance Festival will feature excellent professional dance companies from around the world. In addition, master classes taught by some of the visiting artists will be offered, along with a VIP/Performer party to celebrate the convergence of artists with the public. Learn more at sfhiphopdancefest.com.

Nov 24

Golden Gate Spartan Trail Classic

Starting in the iconic city of San Francisco, travel across the Golden Gate Bridge and venture into the fabled Marin Headlands, where spellbinding panoramas of the mountains and sea await. Learn more at goldengatetrailclassic.com.

Nov 27

San Francisco International Automobile Show

The San Francisco International Automobile Show features the world’s major auto manufacturers displaying their concept cars, SUVs, trucks and vans, totaling almost 800 vehicles in all. Learn more at sftravel.com.

Dec 1

Los Altos Festival Of Lights Parade

Come out for one of the most popular events in Los Altos! Marvel at lighted costumes and floats to ring in the Christmas season. Learn more at visitsiliconvalley.org.

Dec 6

Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration

Come ring in the holiday season with entertainment, loads of holiday cheer and a photo with Santa Claus! Fun for the entire family. Learn more at visitsiliconvalley.com.

EVENTS 2024-25

Jan 2 2025

Queer Bedtime Stories

This is the bedtime stories reboot you’ve dreamed of: all the stories are queer! Queer Bedtime Stories is an opportunity to re-seed the fertile ground of your imagination with poetry, memoirs, and history from our people: LGBTQ+ ancestors and creators alive today. Together, let’s uncover the richness of the queer yesteryear and, if we’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the blossoming tomorrow. Learn more eventbrite.com.

Feb 1 2025

Illusions The Drag Brunch

Illusions the Drag Queen Show San Francisco is the perfect combination of spectacular burlesque style and comedy performances by the industry’s best celebrity impersonators and the funniest San Francisco drag queen hosts you’ll ever have the pleasure of encountering. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Mar 1

Mardi Gras Beads & Brews Bar Crawl

Get ready to unleash the bead-wearing, brew-sipping, carnival spirit at Pub Pioneers’ Mardi Gras Beads & Brews Bar Crawl. Take the reins of revelry at your own pace, exploring a lineup of vibrant bars, each flaunting its own unique charm. And what’s a crawl without exclusive specials? Fear not, intrepid crawler, for the treasure map reveals the secret concoctions awaiting your taste buds. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Mar 15-16

Dancing Moons Festival

Based on Huang Ruo’s composition, Angel Island, which took its inspiration from the poems carved into the walls by detainees held at the immigration station between 1910-1940, OBC will realize this 70-minute oratorio for 4 voices and string quartet in a two-year phase. A program packed with diverse and punchy snippets by Asian American choreographers – a sampling well worth seeing when this nine-member ensemble. Visit oaklandballet.org/dancing-moons-festival.