Todos Santos Plaza

Todos Santos Plaza is the historic "heart" of the city of Concord in the USA, a picturesque 2.5-acre park. As the main cultural and social hub, the plaza brings together residents and visitors of California, offering a unique blend of rich heritage and modern urban activity.

The architectural ensemble of the plaza is noted for its Spanish Colonial Revival style buildings. Here, you can see elegant arches, decorative lighting, and original works of public art. The high status of this location is officially recognized: in 2018, the American Planning Association named Todos Santos Plaza one of the three Great Places (public spaces) in the state.

The area surrounding the park is densely lined with cozy restaurants, coffee shops, and stylish boutiques. Thanks to its abundant greenery and well-kept paths, the plaza has become a favorite spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying historic charm and first-class service in the very center of Concord.

To plan your visit and get the latest information on events at Todos Santos Plaza, you can use the official contact details provided below.

Todos Santos Plaza is always buzzing with life. One of the most popular activities for visitors is attending the weekly farmers' market, which takes place on Tuesdays. During the summer season (June to September), an evening market also opens on Thursdays, where you can not only buy fresh produce but also enjoy the street festival atmosphere.

Music lovers should check out the "Music & Market" free outdoor concert series, held on summer Thursday evenings. In July, the plaza becomes the main stage for Tuesday Night Blues, featuring performances by the best local blues artists. Every year, these and other events attract over 150,000 people.

For a quiet family outing, the plaza offers well-manicured lawns, shady trees, and a modern children's playground. It’s a pleasant place to have a picnic, admire the vibrant flower beds, or witness large-scale city celebrations, such as the July 4th Independence Day parade or the official Christmas tree lighting ceremony in December.

The most convenient way to reach Todos Santos Plaza is by using the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system. You should get off at the Concord BART Station, which is within walking distance. The walk to the plaza takes about 8 minutes via Grant Street, where blue wayfinding signs help tourists find their way.

For those who prefer to travel by taxi or private car, the site is easy to find in the city center at 2175 Willow Pass Rd. The square is bounded by four streets: Salvio Street, Willow Pass Road, Grant Street, and Mount Diablo Street. Parking areas are available nearby, though spaces can be limited during festivals and market days.

If you are already in the city center, a taxi ride to the plaza will take only a few minutes. This is an excellent way to reach your destination quickly if you want to save time and avoid searching for parking during peak hours.

The history of Todos Santos Plaza began in 1868–1869. Its founder was Don Salvio Pacheco, a key figure in the region's history. After a devastating earthquake in Hayward damaged a neighboring town, Pacheco hired a surveyor to create a plan for a new settlement and donated this plot of land to the people of Concord to serve as a central square.

The city was originally planned with a strict grid pattern, typical of traditional Spanish-American settlements. This structure allowed the city to expand harmoniously while keeping the plaza as its primary geographical and social hub. Since its founding, this site has served as the main gathering point for meetings and celebrations.

In 2018, Concord celebrated its 150th anniversary. To mark this significant milestone, a majestic bronze statue of Don Salvio Pacheco was installed on the plaza. The monument symbolizes the continuity of generations and reminds residents of the man who gave the city its "green heart."

For a standard visit to Todos Santos Plaza, including a leisurely stroll through its shaded walkways and viewing the Spanish-style architecture, it is recommended to set aside 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to soak up the downtown atmosphere and browse local boutiques or cafes.

If you plan to visit the famous farmers' market or attend one of the evening musical performances, you should allow 2–3 hours. Festive events and open-air concerts create a special mood that encourages long periods of relaxation and socializing.

Todos Santos Plaza is open to the public daily, making it accessible for walks at any convenient time. Official operating hours are 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Monday — Sunday).

When planning your visit, take note of the schedule for special events. The farmers' market operates on Tuesdays from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and during the summer months (June–September), it also runs on Thursdays from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The "Music & Market" concert series typically begins at 6:30 PM on Thursdays.

Exploring the surroundings of Todos Santos Plaza will allow you to delve deeper into the city's cultural identity and find interesting ways to spend your leisure time. Within walking distance or a short drive, you'll find both historical landmarks and modern entertainment centers.