Events
San Francisco is a vibrant and active community, known for its diverse cultural tapestry and a year-round calendar of exciting events. The city's top annual events include the Chinese New Year Parade, Pride Parade, Bay to Breakers footrace, and Outside Lands Music Festival, showcasing the city's inclusivity and love for music and arts. Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, Folsom Street Fair, and the Dickens Christmas Fair offer unique and dynamic experiences. The city's holiday celebrations, like the Tree Lighting Ceremony and the Nutcracker ballet, foster a strong sense of community. San Francisco thrives on its rich traditions and its commitment to creativity and diversity.
Here is an example list of the many things taking place in San Francisco.
Chinese New Year Parade and Festival (February): Celebrate the Lunar New Year with colorful floats, dragon dancers, and cultural performances in the largest Chinese New Year event outside of Asia.
San Francisco International Film Festival (April): The oldest film festival in the Americas, showcasing international and independent films, documentaries, and cinematic art.
Cinco de Mayo Festival (May): A lively celebration of Mexican culture with a parade, music, dance, and delicious cuisine in the Mission District.
Bay to Breakers (May): A world-famous footrace and vibrant street party, where participants dress in creative costumes for a 12k run from the Bay to Ocean Beach.
San Francisco Pride Parade and Celebration (June): One of the largest LGBTQ+ pride events in the world, featuring a colorful parade and a diverse celebration of love and diversity.
Fillmore Jazz Festival (July): A showcase of jazz and blues talent, with live music, artisan crafts, and delectable cuisine along Fillmore Street.
Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival (August): A music and arts extravaganza in Golden Gate Park featuring top-tier artists, food, wine, and interactive art installations.
Folsom Street Fair (September): The world's largest leather and fetish event, with entertainment, vendors, and vibrant self-expression in the South of Market neighborhood.
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass (October): A free music festival in Golden Gate Park, celebrating a diverse range of musical genres, with a focus on bluegrass and folk.
San Francisco International Auto Show (November): A showcase of the latest automotive innovations and luxury vehicles at the Moscone Center.
Tree Lighting Ceremony at Union Square (November): The official start of the holiday season with the lighting of a massive Christmas tree, festive performances, and ice skating.
Great Dickens Christmas Fair (November-December): Step into Victorian London with holiday-themed entertainment, shopping, and dining at the Cow Palace.
San Francisco Ballet's Nutcracker (December): A cherished holiday tradition, featuring Tchaikovsky's classic ballet at the War Memorial Opera House.
New Year's Eve Fireworks at the Embarcadero (December): Ring in the new year with a dazzling fireworks display along the waterfront, marking the city's grand celebration.
SF Sketchfest (January): A comedy festival featuring stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy performances by both emerging and renowned comedians at various venues.
Sundance Film Festival: San Francisco (February): A regional extension of the renowned Sundance Film Festival, showcasing independent films and documentaries.
Noise Pop Festival (February-March): A celebration of indie music, arts, and culture, featuring concerts, film screenings, and workshops in various San Francisco venues.
St. Patrick's Day Parade and Festival (March): A festive celebration of Irish heritage with a colorful parade, music, dance, and culinary delights in the Civic Center.
Cherry Blossom Festival (April): Embrace Japanese culture with a grand parade, cultural performances, and traditional food in Japantown.
Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon (June): A challenging triathlon that starts with a swim from Alcatraz Island, followed by a bike ride and run through the city.