Welcome to the San Francisco & North Bay Private School Open House Calendar, your go-to source for upcoming admissions events in San Francisco, Marin County, Napa, Sonoma, and nearby communities. Explore campus tours, parent panels, and private school information sessions—all in one place.

Looking for open houses in other parts of the Bay Area?

• Peninsula & Silicon Valley School Open House Calendar
• East Bay School Open House Calendar
• Bay Area–Wide School Open House Calendar

Start exploring the best private school tour options across the Northern San Francisco Bay region today.

What to expect at San Francisco & North Bay school open houses

Looking for the right private school in San Francisco or across the North Bay? Attending a school open house or private school tour is one of the most effective ways to evaluate programs and communities. Whether you’re interested in San Francisco school open houses, Marin County private school tours, or Napa and Sonoma school admissions events, these in‑person visits offer families first‑hand insight into curriculum, culture, and student life.

Schools throughout the region—including Mill Valley, Sausalito, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Tiburon, Novato, Petaluma, Santa Rosa, Napa and Sonoma—host open house events each fall and winter. These events give families a chance to explore academic programs, meet teachers and administrators, and experience school communities firsthand.

What is a school open house?

A school open house is a scheduled event hosted by private and independent schools that invites prospective families to visit campus. Depending on the school, an open house may include:

• Guided campus tours of classrooms, arts and athletic facilities, and outdoor spaces
• Information sessions and welcome remarks from school leadership
• Live classroom visits or shadow days for students
• Panel discussions with faculty, parents, and current students
• Interactive Q&A forums with admissions staff

Some open houses in San Francisco, Marin, Napa, and Sonoma require advance registration, so be sure to RSVP via the school’s website or contact the admissions office directly.

Key features of San Francisco & North Bay private school open houses

Private school campus tours

Most open houses in San Francisco, Marin County, and the North Bay include detailed tours of academic buildings, science labs, arts studios, libraries, and athletic centers. Many tours are student‑led, giving you an authentic perspective on campus life.

Classroom visits or student shadowing

Some schools offer live classroom observations or arrange a shadow day where your child can experience a typical day alongside current students. This helps families understand teaching styles, class sizes, and the daily rhythm of the school.

Meet the Head of School and admissions leaders

Open houses often feature welcome remarks from the Head of School and panel discussions with admissions staff, current parents, and students. These sessions provide clarity on curriculum, diversity, financial aid, and extracurricular opportunities.

Clubs, arts, and athletics fairs

Many schools showcase extracurricular activities at open houses. Parents can learn about student clubs, arts programs, robotics teams, athletics, and leadership opportunities—especially valuable for families seeking a well‑rounded education in the Bay Area.

Dining hall and food program tours

Some open houses in Marin County, Napa, and Sonoma include lunch or refreshments, allowing you to experience the school’s dining program and facilities—important for full‑day or boarding programs.

Admissions interviews on‑site

For families already in the application process, some schools offer the option to complete an admissions interview on the same day as the open house. Ask the school ahead of time if this is available.

Why San Francisco & North Bay school open houses matter

From Pacific Heights to Petaluma and Mill Valley to Napa Valley, schools across this region offer diverse approaches to education. Attending open houses helps families:

• Meet teachers, students, and administrators face‑to‑face
• See campus facilities, safety measures, and student resources
• Learn about academics, extracurriculars, and support programs
• Ask specific questions about tuition, transportation, and learning differences

There’s no obligation to apply after attending. Open houses are designed to help families compare schools, explore programs, and make informed decisions.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What cities are included in the San Francisco & North Bay school open house calendar?

Our listings feature events in San Francisco, Mill Valley, Sausalito, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Tiburon, Novato, Petaluma, Santa Rosa, Napa, Sonoma and other North Bay communities.

Do these events include preschool through high school options?

Yes. We include open houses for preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools—both day and boarding programs.

Are these only for private schools?

Yes. This calendar highlights private, parochial, independent, and charter school events in San Francisco and the North Bay.

When do San Francisco & North Bay private school open houses usually take place?

Most open houses occur during the fall (October–December) or early winter (January–February). Some schools also offer spring tours or year‑round appointments.

Do I need to register for an open house?

Many schools require advance registration. Use the links in our calendar or visit each school’s website to confirm details and reserve your spot.

How do I find upcoming open house dates?

Visit our San Francisco & North Bay School Open House Calendar for a complete list of upcoming admissions events in your area.

Start your San Francisco & North Bay school search today

Whether you’re exploring San Francisco elementary schools, Marin County high schools, or Napa and Sonoma K–12 options, our open house calendar is your go‑to guide for connecting with schools that match your family’s priorities. Bookmark this page and check back regularly for the latest events.