Events
A Year-Round Guide for 2025
San Francisco, known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, vibrant neighborhoods, and rich cultural history, is a city that thrives on celebration. With its diverse communities and scenic landscapes, San Francisco offers a dynamic calendar of events throughout the year. From music festivals and culinary fairs to cultural parades and holiday traditions, there’s always something to experience.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit San Francisco is during the fall (September to November) when the weather is warm and the skies are clear. Spring (March to May) is also a great time with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Summers can be foggy and cooler than expected, while winters are rainy but mild.
January
New Year's Day Run
Description: Kick off the new year with a healthy start by participating in the annual New Year’s Day Run along the scenic Embarcadero waterfront.
Date: January 1, 2025
Location: Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105
Contact: info@nydrun.com
Highlights: A family-friendly event with stunning views of the Bay Bridge, refreshments, and live music at the finish line.
Ticket Information: Registration required
SF Sketchfest
Description: SF Sketchfest is a renowned comedy festival featuring performances by top comedians, improv troupes, and sketch artists.
Date: January 9-26, 2025
Location: Various venues across San Francisco
Contact: info@sfsketchfest.com
Highlights: Stand-up comedy, improv shows, and panel discussions with industry insiders.
Ticket Information: Tickets available online at sfsketchfest.com.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade
Description: Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a parade and festival featuring live performances, speeches, and community activities.
Date: January 20, 2025
Location: Starts at 4th and Townsend Streets, ends at Yerba Buena Gardens, San Francisco, CA 94103
Contact: mlkparade@sf.gov
Highlights: Floats, marching bands, cultural performances, and a commemorative ceremony.
Ticket Information: Free to the public.
February
Chinese New Year Parade
Description: One of the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside of Asia, featuring dragon dances, elaborate floats, and fireworks.
Date: February 8, 2025
Location: Chinatown, San Francisco, CA 94108
Contact: cnyparade@sfchamber.com
Highlights: Stunning cultural performances, traditional costumes, and a festive atmosphere.
Ticket Information: Free to the public; VIP seating available.
SF Beer Week
Description: A week-long celebration of craft beer with events hosted by local breweries, bars, and restaurants.
Date: February 7-16, 2025
Location: Various locations throughout San Francisco
Contact: info@sfbeerweek.org
Highlights: Beer tastings, brewery tours, and food pairings.
Ticket Information: Event-specific tickets available at sfbeerweek.org.
Black History Month Celebration
Description: A month-long series of events honoring African American history and culture, including lectures, performances, and art exhibits.
Date: Throughout February 2025
Location: African American Art & Culture Complex, 762 Fulton St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Contact: info@aaacc.org
Highlights: Cultural performances, historical exhibits, and educational workshops.
Ticket Information: Free and ticketed events; details at aaacc.org.
March
St. Patrick's Day Parade
Description: Celebrate Irish heritage with a lively parade featuring bagpipers, Irish dancers, and colorful floats.
Date: March 15, 2025
Location: Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94103
Contact: stpatricksparade@sf.gov
Highlights: Traditional Irish music, dance performances, and family-friendly activities.
Ticket Information: Free to the public.
Bay Area Brew Fest
Description: An annual beer festival featuring over 200 beers from local and international breweries, food trucks, and live music.
Date: March 21, 2025
Location: Fort Mason Center, 2 Marina Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94123
Contact: info@bayareabrewfest.com
Highlights: Unlimited beer tastings, food pairings, and entertainment.
Ticket Information: Tickets available at bayareabrewfest.com.
Cherry Blossom Festival
Description: Celebrate the arrival of spring and Japanese culture with the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival.
Date: March 28-29, 2025
Location: Japantown, San Francisco, CA 94115
Contact: info@nccbf.org
Highlights: Traditional music and dance, food booths, and cultural demonstrations.
Ticket Information: Free to the public.
April
San Francisco International Film Festival
Description: The longest-running film festival in the Americas, showcasing a diverse selection of films from around the world.
Date: April 10-24, 2025
Location: Various theaters across San Francisco
Contact: info@sffilm.org
Highlights: Film screenings, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers.
Ticket Information: Tickets and passes available at sffilm.org.
Earth Day San Francisco
Description: Celebrate Earth Day with eco-friendly activities, educational workshops, and live music.
Date: April 22, 2025
Location: Civic Center Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94102
Contact: earthday@sf.gov
Highlights: Environmental exhibits, sustainable product vendors, and family activities.
Ticket Information: Free to the public.
Bay to Breakers
Description: A historic 12K race known for its fun costumes and festive atmosphere, attracting runners from around the world.
Date: April 27, 2025
Location: Starts at Howard and Main Streets, ends at Ocean Beach, San Francisco, CA 94103
Contact: info@baytobreakers.com
Highlights: Creative costumes, live music along the course, and a lively finish line party.
Ticket Information: Registration required; visit baytobreakers.com for details.
May
Cinco de Mayo Festival
Description: A vibrant celebration of Mexican culture with music, dance, and delicious food.
Date: May 5, 2025
Location: Mission District, San Francisco, CA 94110
Contact: cinco@sfchamber.com
Highlights: Traditional performances, food stalls, and family-friendly activities.
Ticket Information: Free to the public.
SF Decorator Showcase
Description: An annual event where top interior designers transform a historic home into a stunning showcase of design.
Date: May 2-25, 2025
Location: Location to be announced
Contact: info@sfshowcase.org
Highlights: Room-by-room tours of beautifully decorated spaces and design inspiration.
Carnaval San Francisco
Description: A two-day festival celebrating Latin American and Caribbean cultures with a colorful parade and street fair.
Date: May 24-25, 2025
Location: Mission District, San Francisco, CA 94110
Contact: info@carnavalsanfrancisco.org
Highlights: Parade with elaborate costumes, live music, dance performances, and food vendors.
Ticket Information: Free to the public.
June
San Francisco Pride
Description: One of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in the world, featuring a parade, concerts, and community events.
Date: June 28-29, 2025
Location: Market Street and Civic Center Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94102
Contact: info@sfpride.org
Highlights: Vibrant parade, live music, and numerous events celebrating LGBTQ+ culture.
Ticket Information: Free to the public; donations encouraged.
North Beach Festival
Description: One of the country’s oldest street fairs, celebrating the Italian heritage of San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood.
Date: June 21-22, 2025
Location: North Beach, San Francisco, CA 94133
Contact: info@northbeachfestival.org
Highlights: Art and craft booths, live entertainment, and Italian cuisine.
Ticket Information: Free to the public.
Stern Grove Festival
Description: A summer concert series held in a beautiful outdoor amphitheater, featuring a variety of musical performances.
Date: June 22 – August 24, 2025 (Sundays)
Location: Sigmund Stern Grove, 19th Avenue and Sloat Boulevard, San Francisco, CA 94132
Contact: info@sterngrove.org
Highlights: Free concerts featuring local and international artists.
Ticket Information: Free to the public.
July
Fourth of July Fireworks
Dates: July 4, 2025
Location: Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 705-5500 | Pier 39 Events
Description: A spectacular fireworks display over the San Francisco Bay to celebrate Independence Day.
Highlights and Features: Live music, family-friendly activities, and waterfront dining options.
Tickets: Free entry.
Insider Tips: Arrive by late afternoon to find parking and enjoy pre-fireworks activities.
Fillmore Jazz Festival
Dates: July 5 – 6, 2025
Location: Fillmore Street, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-1234 | Fillmore Jazz Festival
Description: The largest free jazz festival on the West Coast, celebrating the rich history of jazz in the Fillmore District.
Highlights and Features: Live performances on multiple stages, artisan vendors, and food trucks.
Tickets: Free entry.
Insider Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot near your favorite stage and explore local shops.
Stern Grove Festival
Dates: Sundays throughout July 2025
Location: Sigmund Stern Grove, 19th Ave and Sloat Blvd, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 252-6252 | Stern Grove Festival
Description: A free summer concert series featuring renowned musical acts in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Highlights and Features: Performances by local and international artists, food trucks, and picnic areas.
Tickets: Free entry; donations encouraged.
Insider Tips: Bring a blanket and arrive early to secure a good spot.
August
Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival
Dates: August 8 – 10, 2025
Location: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-5678 | Outside Lands
Description: A premier music festival blending live music, art, and culinary experiences.
Highlights and Features: Performances by top artists, wine and beer gardens, and an immersive art installation.
Tickets: General admission starts at $175 per day; VIP packages available.
Insider Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and use public transportation to avoid parking issues.
Nihonmachi Street Fair
Dates: August 17 – 18, 2025
Location: Japantown, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-6789 | Nihonmachi Fair
Description: A vibrant celebration of Asian-Pacific American culture and heritage.
Highlights and Features: Cultural performances, food vendors, and a car show.
Tickets: Free entry.
Insider Tips: Explore local restaurants for authentic Japanese cuisine and bring cash for vendor purchases.
Eat Drink SF
Dates: August 22 – 24, 2025
Location: Fort Mason Center, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 345-7500 | Eat Drink SF
Description: A premier food and drink festival showcasing the best of San Francisco’s culinary scene.
Highlights and Features: Tasting pavilions, chef demonstrations, and unlimited samples of wine, beer, and cocktails.
Tickets: General admission starts at $125.
Insider Tips: Purchase tickets early as the event often sells out and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
September
Folsom Street Fair
Dates: September 28, 2025
Location: Folsom Street, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-7890
Description: The world’s largest leather and fetish event, celebrating diversity and self-expression.
Highlights and Features: Live performances, artisan vendors, and themed exhibits.
Tickets: Suggested donation of $10.
Insider Tips: Wear comfortable clothes and respect the event’s unique cultural context
San Francisco International Dragon Boat Festival
Dates: September 14 – 15, 2025
Location: Treasure Island, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-4567 | Dragon Boat Festival
Description: A thrilling two-day event featuring competitive dragon boat races and cultural performances.
Highlights and Features: Food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Tickets: Free entry.
Insider Tips: Arrive early to watch the races and bring sunscreen for outdoor activities.
Autumn Moon Festival
Dates: September 21 – 22, 2025
Location: Chinatown, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-6543 | Autumn Moon Festival
Description: A traditional Chinese celebration honoring the harvest moon with cultural festivities.
Highlights and Features: Lion dances, mooncakes, and cultural performances.
Tickets: Free entry.
Insider Tips: Visit early to enjoy the parade and explore local shops for unique souvenirs.
October
Fleet Week
Dates: October 6 – 14, 2025
Location: San Francisco Bay, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-3333 | Fleet Week
Description: A week-long celebration of the U.S. Navy, including air shows, ship tours, and military demonstrations.
Highlights and Features: Blue Angels air show, live music, and waterfront activities.
Tickets: Free entry; some tours may require reservations.
Insider Tips: Bring ear protection for the air show and arrive early for ship tours.
Castro Street Fair
Dates: October 6, 2025
Location: Castro Street, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-2222 | Castro Street Fair
Description: A community-driven event celebrating the diversity and culture of the Castro District.
Highlights and Features: Live performances, artisan booths, and a dance area.
Tickets: Suggested donation of $10.
Insider Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring cash for vendor purchases.
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival
Dates: October 3 – 5, 2025
Location: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-1212 | Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
Description: A free annual music festival showcasing a mix of bluegrass, folk, and rock performances.
Highlights and Features: Multiple stages with live performances, food vendors, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Tickets: Free entry.
Insider Tips: Bring a blanket or low-back chairs and arrive early to claim a good spot.
November
Great Dickens Christmas Fair
Dates: November 24, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Location: Various locations across San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-7654
Description: A city-wide celebration featuring light art installations by local and international artists.
Highlights and Features: Nighttime walking tours, art exhibits, and photo-worthy displays.
Tickets: Free entry.
Insider Tips: Check the festival map online to plan your route and wear comfortable walking shoes.
San Francisco International Auto Show
Dates: November 22 – 30, 2025
Location: Moscone Center, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-9876 | SF Auto Show
Description: A premier showcase of the latest vehicles, technologies, and concepts from top automakers.
Highlights and Features: Interactive exhibits, test drive opportunities, and concept car displays.
Tickets: General admission starts at $15; children under 12 enter free.
Insider Tips: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and take advantage of guided tours.
Turkey Trot
Dates: November 28, 2025
Location: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-6547
Description: A fun Thanksgiving Day run benefiting local charities.
Highlights and Features: A scenic 5K and 10K course, costume contests, and finisher medals.
Tickets: Registration starts at $40.
Insider Tips: Arrive early for parking and wear layers to stay warm.
December
Union Square Holiday Tree Lighting
Dates: December 5, 2025
Location: Union Square, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-5555 | Union Square Events
Description: A festive ceremony to kick off the holiday season with live music and a tree-lighting event.
Highlights and Features: Performances by local choirs, special guest appearances, and holiday decor.
Tickets: Free entry.
Insider Tips: Arrive early to secure a viewing spot and dress warmly for the evening chill.
Great Dickens Christmas Fair
Dates: Weekends, November 30 – December 22, 2025
Location: Cow Palace, Daly City, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-3331 | Dickens Fair
Description: A Victorian holiday festival bringing Charles Dickens’ London to life with entertainment, shopping, and dining.
Highlights and Features: Costumed actors, holiday crafts, and traditional English fare.
Tickets: General admission starts at $25; discounts for children and seniors.
Insider Tips: Arrive in costume to immerse yourself in the experience and take advantage of photo opportunities.
New Year's Eve Fireworks by the Bay
Dates: December 31, 2025
Location: Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA
Contact Information: (415) 555-7777 | SF NYE Events
Description: A dazzling fireworks display over the bay to ring in the New Year.
Highlights and Features: Waterfront views, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Tickets: Free entry.
Insider Tips: Use public transportation to avoid traffic and arrive early for the best views.
Practical Information
Ticket Purchase
Tickets for most events can be purchased online through the event’s official website. Some events are free, while others may have a suggested donation or ticket fee. It’s advisable to book tickets in advance, especially for popular events.
Getting There
San Francisco’s public transportation system, including BART, Muni, and buses, provides easy access to most event locations. For those driving, parking can be limited, so consider using ride-sharing services or public transit.
Accommodation
During major events, San Francisco’s hotels can fill up quickly. It’s recommended to book accommodations well in advance. Consider staying in neighborhoods close to the event locations for convenience.
Insider Tips
- Best Times to Attend: For a better experience, attend events early in the day to avoid crowds, or choose weekdays over weekends if the event spans multiple days.
- Local Etiquette: Respect local customs, especially during cultural celebrations. For example, during Dia de los Muertos, participants often dress in traditional attire and create altars to honor deceased loved ones.
- Exploring More: Take advantage of your visit to explore nearby attractions. For instance, if attending events in Golden Gate Park, visit the California Academy of Sciences or the de Young Museum.
Safety and Comfort
- Staying Safe: Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and stay aware of your surroundings.
- What to Wear: San Francisco’s weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and bring a jacket, even in summer. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for most events.
- Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen, especially for outdoor events. Check the event’s website for any specific guidelines or prohibited items.
Planning Your Visit
San Francisco’s event calendar offers something for everyone, from cultural celebrations and historical reenactments to food festivals and marathons. These events provide a unique opportunity to experience the city’s diverse culture and vibrant community. By planning your visit around these events, you’ll not only enjoy the festivities but also gain a deeper appreciation for what makes San Francisco special. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of these memorable experiences. Book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready to explore the best of San Francisco through its dynamic events.