This month's free movie is the 1977 science fiction masterpiece, Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Steven Spielberg's movie about UFOs visiting earth simply must be seen on a big screen, which is why we picked it as the July entry in our classic film series. Click here for more information about the July 9 showing at the Orinda Theatre.

Diablo Regional Arts Association and Lesher Center invite all to unwind with a cool drink and live music at Summer Sounds, a free concert series on the outside plaza of the Lesher Center. Performances by a stellar lineup of artists, appear 5:30 to 7 p.m., Thursdays, July 9, 23 and 30. Following the amazing success of Dead Winter Carpenters is the electronic string quartet Phat Strad on July 9. The incredible Anderson & Roe Piano Duo continues the series on July 23, and the electrifying Mic Gillette Band headlines the closing concert on July 30. Beer and wine available. Click here for more information.

The Meritage at the Claremont Hotel invites you to its new Happy Hour. Enjoy 2 for 1 deals on featured wines from 5 to 7 p.m. Offer is valid on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from July 7 through September 10. Experience a great way to end the day connecting in real time with friends and co-workers. Click here or call (510) 549-8510 for more information.

Join us July 12 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for Super Safety Sunday, a family-friendly event where you can meet police, fire, paramedic  and rescue personnel, get free health screenings and more!  The Food Truck Mafia will be there along with KKIQ spinning tunes. Click here for more details.

Immerse yourself in a symphony of color and view the world through the eyes of an animal, visualizing how color communicates, attracts, and camouflages within and between species. View a live presentation about Infrared light and learn how it allows us to explore the invisible universe like never before. Join us in Hohfeld Hall for this live 15-minute program hosted by planetarium presenters. Click here to get tickets.

With an only-in-Napa Valley array of gourmet food and wine selections for the discriminating palate, Taste of Napa - a signature Festival del Sole event - begs the question, "Is there a better way to wile away a summer Saturday?" Seventy wineries, craft breweries, restaurants and food artisans, plus an exciting new culinary competition and live music, serve up the perfect recipe. Click here to learn more.

The beloved Chevron Family Theatre Festival returns on July 18 with a day full of delights. Click here to read more about this special event.

Remodeling your kitchen may seem like a daunting task, but there are easy steps to take to ensure a successful kitchen remodel. On Wednesday, July 15, from 6:30 pm  to 8 pm, Altera Design will cover the specifics of exactly what you need to know and the steps you need to take to ensure that your kitchen remodel project is a successful one. Click here for more details. 

Jazz at the Lesher Center, presented by the Diablo Regional Arts Association, presents its fourth season of phenomenal jazz performances by a stellar line-up of talented artists, appearing at four shows, 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., every Saturday from August 1 - 29. Single tickets are on sale now, for $25 to $40 each. Click here or call 925.943.7469 for more information.

The Broadway Plaza Summer Concert Series and Thursday Night Block Party is back! This free event will start with a Block Party at 6 p.m., followed by live music at 7 p.m. This year's line-up includes: Petty Theft (8/6), The Unauthorized Rolling Stones (8/13) and Journey Revisited (8/20).  Click here to find out more about this annual tradition!

We love everything about this girl's outfit for the Alameda 4th of July Parade (especially the hat)! This adorable photo was taken by instagram user lisamilestone / pippacoevents! Don't forget to tag your Instagram photos with #eastbay and #diablomag to be considered for our blog!

Heads up, foodies! It's time for you to share your favorite restaurant picks for Diablo's annual Food Awards. Tell us your favorite places to chow down in the East Bay, and you'll be automatically entered to win dinner for two at an East Bay restaurant.