Todos Santos Plaza

Historic Origins

Located in the heart of downtown Concord, California, Todos Santos Plaza spans a modest 2.5 acres but packs a significant historical punch. Back in 1869, the city's founding fathers - Don Salvio Pacheco, Don Fernando Pacheco, and Don Francisco Galindo - dedicated this space as the central public square for their budding town. It has since served as a central public space for generations.

Location and Features

Framed by Salvio Street, Willow Pass Road, Grant Street, and Mount Diablo Street, Todos Santos Plaza is central to downtown Concord. The park offers a green refuge with its grassy lawn and mature trees that provide welcome shade on hot California days. You'll discover picnic tables scattered throughout - well-suited for enjoying a packed lunch or takeout from nearby restaurants. And yes, your four-legged friends are welcome too, but they'll need to stay leashed during your visit.

Families with little ones appreciate the playground, which, while not enormous, provides enough entertainment to keep kids happily occupied. Just note that there aren't public restrooms within the park itself, but you can find facilities in surrounding restaurants or nearby parking garages when nature calls.

Dining and Surroundings

One of the best things about Todos Santos Plaza is how it's embraced by a diverse culinary scene. The surrounding blocks host an impressive array of eateries offering everything from Italian and Mexican to Japanese, Indian, and Peruvian cuisine. When you're just looking for a quick pick-me-up, local ice cream shops and coffee houses have you covered.

Getting to the plaza is straightforward, with free parking available in nearby structures and street parking in the area - though spots can become scarce during popular events.

Community Events

The plaza hosts numerous year-round community gatherings. The farmers' market runs weekly, appearing Tuesday daytimes and Thursday evenings. The Thursday market pairs with the summer Music & Market series (June through September), where you can enjoy live music while browsing fresh produce and food vendors.

Beyond summer concerts, the plaza hosts a calendar full of cultural celebrations including Juneteenth events, Pride festivities, art festivals, and holiday gatherings. Most performances take place at the plaza's stage area, changing the atmosphere of the park depending on when you visit.

Recognition and Heritage

The plaza's significance received official recognition in 2018 when the American Planning Association named it one of three Great Places in California. During Concord's 150th anniversary celebrations, a bronze statue of Don Salvio Pacheco was installed, creating a tangible link to the city's founding history.

The park's most recent major renovation occurred in 1993-1994, marking the seventh significant update since its establishment. Today, Todos Santos Plaza continues as Concord's central gathering space where you can relax on the grass, enjoy a meal, or experience a slice of local community life.