Organized by "Make:technology on your time" magazine and advertising itself as "The World's Largest DIY Festival", the faire is worth a visit for anyone who loves to make things or is inspired by the creative works of others.
All manner of non-autonomous vehicles, burning man projects, steampunk fashion, kite photographers, barrel (and car) crushing bionic hands, and much (!) more come together for an eye-and-ear-popping festival... what more could one want? Flames, of course! There is fire... not to mention lightning and music :)
Since the original faire in 2006, it is held annually for a full weekend in May and often rewards those who arrive early - as things tend to get crowded, hot, and broken towards the end of the day.
Address: 2495 S Delaware St San Mateo, CA
Website: http://makerfaire.com/
Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maker_Faire