One of San Jose’s largest summer festivals, the Target Summer Pops Free Music Festival, which runs from July 30 – August 7, provides audiences an opportunity to experience the excitement of orchestral, world and pop music from the comfort of their blanket.

Held on the green at San Jose State University, the festival is a fun-filled romp through popular and classical favorites and a showcase for world-class artists. From Hollywood hits and big band favorites to rumbas, taiko drumming and familiar classics, the festival offers something for music aficionados and newcomers alike.

Kicking off the festival on Saturday, July 30, is Classics with Attitude, a collection of “light-classical” favorites. From the lively and technically-challenging “Carmen Fantasy” to the rhythmically-driven “Bolero” and more, the symphony, led by Maestro Peter Jaffe, offers a glimpse into the edgier side of classical music.

The Family Adventure Concert on Sunday, July 31, is a tribute to compositions recognizable to kids of all ages. With a schedule that includes hits from Beauty and the Beast, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Little Mermaid and more, this is a great way to introduce pop culture-savvy youngsters to the richness of live, orchestral music. And, there will be free ice cream.

Spicing it up with the infectiously danceable music of Ricardo Lemvo and Makina Loca, Noche Caliente: Target Latin Night on August 5 showcases the fusion of salsas, rumbas, soukous and “smooth world beats” that have made Lemvo a pioneer of contemporary Afro-Cuban music. Add to the mix a set by special guest San Jose Taiko and the night is sure to be hot, hot, hot.

From “In the Mood” to “Puttin’ on the Ritz,” “Ain’t Misbehavin’” and many more, Big Band Dance Hits, on Saturday August 6, is shaping up to be a swinging good time. Featuring classic dance numbers from the big band-era, the concert aims to be a feel-good, dancefloor-filling affair.

Bringing to life the sounds of some of Hollywood biggest hits, “pops conductor extraordinaire” Michael Berkowitz leads the symphony in a tribute to the big screen. Performing unforgettable pieces from Gone with the Wind, Dr. Zhivago, Lawrence of Arabia, 007 and many more, the festival-closing Hooray for Hollywood concert, on August 7, is a celebration of the glamour and magnificence of Hollywood’s golden age and beyond.