04 Jan 2012
The following events are held on an annual basis and are updated throughout the year. All dates and locations are subject to change and should be confirmed with sponsors before making travel plans. General city information and detailed event calendars are available at www.sanfrancisco.travel.
JANUARY 2012
JANUARY 14-FEBRUARY 19
Chinese New Year Parade and Celebration
Chinatown, 415-982-3071
The festivities ushering in the Year of the Dragon include a Chinese New Year Flower Fair (January 14-15) Miss Chinatown USA Pageant (February 4), and the Chinatown Community Street Fair (February 11-12). It's all built around a fantastic parade from Market and Second Street to Columbus Avenue on Saturday, February 11. Chinese New Year Day is January 23.
JANUARY 15
3rd Annual German Gems
Castro Theatre, 429 Castro St. and Pt. Arena, Mendocino, 415-621-6120
Spotlights the best of German cinema.
JANUARY 15
Vietnamese Tet Festival
Tenderloin District, Larkin Street, 415-351-1038
The 16th annual Vietnamese Lunar New Year Festival celebrates Vietnamese culture with a Tet Festival queen, food, music, colorful pageantry and plenty of firecrackers in Little Saigon.
JANUARY 15-31
San Francisco Dine About Town™
Various restaurants, 415-391-2000
Bi-annual event featuring fine restaurants all over the city offering prix fixe lunches and dinners for special prices.
JANUARY 16
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
Yerba Buena Gardens, 415-543-1718
http://www.ybgf.org, http://norcalmlk.co.cc
San Francisco honors the civil rights leader at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Yerba Buena Gardens. Celebration includes activities organized by NorCalMLK from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
January 19
San Francisco Ballet Gala Opening
War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Avenue, 415-865-2000
The opening program of America's oldest professional ballet company launches the 79th repertory season of full-length, classical and contemporary ballet performances.
JANUARY 19-22
22nd Anniversary of the Sea Lions’ Arrival at Pier 39
Pier 39, 415-705-5500
Pier 39 commemorates the 22nd anniversary of the sea lions' arrival for the Bay Area herring supply. Staff from the Marine Mammal Center and Aquarium of the Bay will be on hand to illuminate the lives of these delightful creatures.
JANUARY 20-29
Noir City 10: San Francisco Film Noir Festival
Castro Theatre
Dedicated to noir philosophy, attitude and style in films, books, art and music, the festival is the largest of its kind in the U.S. and promises “ultra rare films and very special guests.”
JANUARY 26-28
Annual Zinfandel Festival (ZAP)
Concourse Exhibition Center, 635 8th St., 415-490-5800
Zinfandel, often called America’s heritage wine, is the draw here. Savor the flavors of this authentically American varietal and experience its distinctly classic personality at four extraordinary events. More than 250 wineries participate in this food and wine tasting which draws some 10,000 wine lovers.
JANUARY 28-29
Golden Gate Kennel Club Dog Show
Cow Palace, Geneva Avenue and Santos Street, 415-404-4111
More than 2,000 dogs and 350 breeds vie for “Best in Show” and compete in dog agility demonstrations daily.
FEBRUARY 2012
FEBRUARY 3-5
San Francisco Arts of Pacific Asia Show
Fort Mason Center, Festival Pavilion, 310-455-2886
All periods of exceptional Asian art and artifacts of the People of the Pacific and Mainland Asian Region.
FEBRUARY 4
KNBR/Giants Winter Fanfest
AT&T Park, 415-995-6800
www.sfgiants.com or www.knbr.com
Fans can go "behind the scenes" and tour the Giants Clubhouse and Dugout as well as participate in an array of interactive games and displays on the Promenade and Club levels. Members of the Giants team will be on hand to sign autographs, pose for photos and participate in Q&A sessions.
FEBRUARY 5
Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Half Marathon & 5K
Golden Gate Park, 415-759-2690
One of the most scenic half marathons ever features a course throughout Golden Gate Park and along the Pacific Ocean with both starts and finishes together in the park.
FEBRUARY 9
Union Street Has a Crush on You Valentine Wine Walk
Union Street from Gough to Steiner and Fillmore Street from Union to Lombard, 415-456-6436
www.sresproductions.com/union_street_valentine_wine_walk.html
This second annual tasting event will include restaurants and merchants offering wine samples, finger foods and special treats from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
FEBRUARY 9-JUNE 22
SFJAZZ Spring Season
Various venues, 866-920-5299
Presenting a variety of concerts between February and June, including some family matinee performances. Check the website for performance schedule and venues.
FEBRUARY 9-23
San Francisco Independent Film Festival
Roxie Theatre and various locations, 415-820-3907
The 15th annual film festival screens the best of independent films and videos from the Bay Area and beyond.
FEBRUARY 10-12
San Francisco Tribal, Folk & Textiles Arts Show
Fort Mason Center, Festival Pavilion, Marina Boulevard and Buchanan Street, 310-455-2886
More than 100 folk and ethnic art dealers exhibiting pre-1940 tribal arts, pottery, textiles and jewelry from around the world.
FEBRUARY 10-19
San Francisco Beer Week
Bay Area
Local craft beer legacy and culture celebrated with as many as 150 events including beer dinners, cheese and beer pairing events; meet the brewer evenings, demonstrations, music and films from Monterey to Sacramento and beyond.
FEBRUARY 11
Chinese New Year’s Treasure Hunt
Justin Herman Plaza, 415-564-9400
Largest and most popular treasure hunt of its kind in the United States; inventive clues and unique, little-known treasure spots draw thousands of spirited participants who return year after year for this fun-filled event. Starting at 4:30 p.m.
FEBRUARY 11-March 11
San Francisco City Golf Championship
TPC Harding Park and Lincoln Park Golf Courses, 415-664-4690
The oldest consecutively played amateur, match play, golf tournament offers men’s, women’s and men’s senior championship flights as well as men’s and women’s open division flights.
FEBRUARY 11-14
San Francisco Zoo’s “Woo at the Zoo”
San Francisco Zoo, One Zoo Rd., 415-753-7080
Contrary to common belief, the animals will not “mate on cue” during the Zoo’s adults-only affair (21 years and older), but one will learn the many facets to the birds and the bees of the animal kingdom.
FEBRUARY 18
San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
Fort Mason Center, www.winejudging.com
More than 5,000 wine lovers converge to enjoy breath taking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, outstanding food, conversations and a bit of education, as they peruse samples from more than 800 wineries. 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
FEBRUARY 18-26
Tulipmania Festival
Pier 39, 415-705-5500
Thousands of brilliantly colored tulips from all over the world coupled with free, guided tours.
FEBRUARY 21-26
Noise Pop
Various locations, 415-375-3370
San Francisco’s premier independent music, film and art festival is a full-scale cultural happening, which also includes gallery art shows, a music-themed film festival, an indie-designer trunk sale and educational panels.
FEBRUARY 23-26
Pacific Orchid Exposition
Fort Mason Center, Festival Pavilion, 415-665-2468
The 60th annual edition of the San Francisco Orchid Society's show dazzles with 150,000 flowers including hundreds of award winners selected by the American Orchid Society. In honor of the 75th anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge, the show's theme "A Salute to the Golden Gate" will feature a replica of the Golden Gate Bridge made out of orchids.
FEBRUARY 25
SF Flea
Herbst Pavilion, 415-990-0600
http://www.sanfranciscoflea.com/
Two-day curated flea market featuring San Francisco Bay Area artists, designers, merchants, artisanal food and beverage purveyors and local businesses. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
FEBRUARY 25-26
The Great San Francisco Crystal Fair
Fort Mason Center, 415-383-7837
More than exhibitors celebrating earth and spirit with a wide variety of gems and minerals (quartz, amethyst, tourmaline, etc.), jewelry, metaphysics, healing tools and the mystical arts.
FEBRUARY 26
Academy of Friends Academy Awards Gala
Galleria Design Center, 415-995-9890
A gala celebration benefiting Bay Area AIDS/HIV organizations.
MARCH 2012
MARCH 1-25
27th Annual Jewish Music Festival
Various locations throughout San Francisco and Berkeley, 510-848-0237
Oldest major festival of Jewish world music in the U.S. unfolds at new Freight and Salvage coffee house in Berkeley (March) and Yerba Buena Gardens (July).
MARCH 3
Bay Area Brew Festival
Fort Mason Center, 415-345-7500
http://drinkeatplay.com/bayareabrewfest
The event will feature dozens of international and domestic beers and San Francisco’s best food trucks. Admission is $40 for general admission from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and $50 for VIP from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and includes unlimited beer.
MARCH 2-4
San Francisco International Chocolate Salon
Festival Pavilion, Fort Mason Center
Those with a yen for chocolate can indulge in artisan, gourmet and premium chocolate from more than 50 chocolatiers and confectioners. Non-chocolate exhibitors and artisans will be on hand as well including wineries participating in the San Francisco Invitational Wine Salon.
MARCH 8-11
Ocean Film Festival
Bay Theatre, Aquarium of the Bay, Pier 39, 415-561-6251
One of the largest and most diverse of its kind, the festival features documentaries, animations, narratives and other traditional screen fare on topics ranging from ocean adventures to island culture and more.
MARCH 8-18
San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival
Castro and Sundance Cinemas Kabuki Theatres, 415-863-0814, ext. 110
The 30th annual event is the biggest event in North America dedicated to the exhibition of Asian American and Asian cinema; festival features more than 130 films and videos from around the globe.
MARCH 10-11
Contemporary Crafts Market
Fort Mason Center, Festival Pavilion, 415-995-4925
More than 250 of the nation's top craft artists will come together to display and sell expertly handcrafted decorative, functional and fine art such as wearable art, ceramics, intricate jewelry, unique glassware and much more.
MARCH 13-17
Bouquets to Art
de Young Museum, Golden Gate Park, 415-750-3504
The 28th annual event celebrates the beauty of flowers combined with fine art. Extravagant floral arrangements from some of California's top designers and lectures by several world-renowned floral designers.
MARCH 15-18
San Francisco Dance Film Festival
Various venues
http://www.sfdancefilmfest.org
The San Francisco Dance Film Festival in association with Ninth Street Independent Film Center and Words on Dance presents its third annual festival with four nights of programming at three different venues. In addition to several major San Francisco premieres of feature-length films, the festival will once again present its Screendance Shorts programs, showcasing the best in short dance films from around the globe.
MARCH 15-25
ODC/Dance Downtown
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 415-863-6606
Described as “fierce, evocative and exhilarating,” the annual spring performance of ODC/Dance always garners praise from local critics.
MARCH 17
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Second and Market to Civic Center, 415-395-8417
One of San Francisco's largest annual parades and one of the longest-running parades in the U.S. is celebrated with live music, dance, beverages and traditional Irish cuisine. The 161st annual parade starts at 11:30 a.m.
MARCH 18
Emerald Across The Bay 12K Race
Sausalito to San Francisco, 415-759-2690
The largest run ever to cross the Golden Gate Bridge ends with a world-class post-race party at Fisherman's Wharf.
MARCH 25-APRIL 7
Macy’s Flower Show
Macy’s, Union Square, 415-393-3333
This annual floral tribute is a spring tradition; the two-week celebration includes guest speakers and special in-store events.
MARCH 29-APRIL 1
Spring Book Sale
Fort Mason Center, Festival Pavilion, 415-626-7500
Sponsored by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library, the Spring Sale will feature over 250,000 books, DVDs, CDs, books on tape, vinyl and other forms of media. All proceeds benefit the San Francisco Public Library’s education programs that promote literacy for children, teens and adults.
MARCH 31
Earth Hour
Major cities around the world, including San Francisco, show that the simple act of turning off lights for one hour can have a lasting impact on climate change starts at 8:30 p.m.
APRIL 2012
APRIL 7-8
San Francisco Fashion Film Festival
Roxie Theater, 3117 16th Stl, 415-820-3907
Film, fashion and fun united at this film festival which presents fashion and documentary shorts, feature films with a fashion bent and panel discussions dedicated to design, costume and style.
APRIL 8
Union Street Spring Celebration & Easter Parade
Union St. between Gough and Fillmore, 800-310-6563
More than 30,000 people turn out for “the biggest little parade in San Francisco,” which features children’s activities, alfresco dining, the Easter Bunny, a petting zoo and flowers from local garden clubs.
APRIL 13
Opening Day – San Francisco Giants
AT&T Park, 415-972-2000 (info), tickets at www.tickets.com
The San Francisco Giants open their 12th season at AT&T Park, with a three-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
APRIL 13-15
San Francisco International Women's Film Festival
Roxie Theater, 3117 16th Street, 415-863-1087
http://www.womensfilminstitute.com/sf-womens-film-festival/
The Women's Film Institute presents the 8th Annual San Francisco International Women's Film Festival (SFIWFF), a comprehensive three-day celebration of films directed by women. The 2012 selection of diverse films celebrates the exceptional contributions of women in the world of cinema and represents a convergence of excellence in filmmaking from around the globe.
APRIL 13-27
16th Annual Youth Speaks Teen Poetry Slam
Various locations throughout Bay Area, 415-255-9035
Youth Speaks, one of the leaders in Spoken Word performances, works with 45,000 teens annually and is a presenter of local and national youth poetry slams, festivals, reading series and more. Preliminaries take place in March followed by the semi-finals and finals, climaxing with the Grand Slam Finals at the Masonic Auditorium on Friday, April 27.
APRIL 14-15, APRIL 21-22
Cherry Blossom Festival
Civic Center and Japantown, 415-563-2313
This is the 45th annual festival, one of California’s most prominent celebrations of Asian traditions. Two consecutive weekends of performances, crafts, food, martial arts and exhibitions. A colorful parade will be held on Sunday, April 22 starting from the Civic Center to Japantown, 1 p.m to 3 p.m.
APRIL 19-MAY 3
San Francisco International Film Festival (SFIFF)
Castro Theater and Sundance Cinemas Kabuki Theatres, 415-561-5000
The 55th annual event is an extraordinary showcase of cinematic discovery and innovation. Since its inception in 1957, the SFIFF has hosted hundreds of prominent guests from Spike Lee to Bette Davis and presented almost 7,000 films from more than 120 countries to nearly two million filmgoers.
APRIL 20-29
Bay Area National Dance Week
415-920-9181
All dance! All free! All week! is the motto of Bay Area National Dance Week. More than 300 artists and organizations participate annually; events include classes, performances, lectures, open rehearsals, open houses, workshops, film screenings and more.
APRIL 22
Earth Day
Civic Center Plaza
International entertainers, keynote speakers, earth friendly exhibitors, eco educational workshops, interactive art installations, organic food and drink, youth empowerment activities, holistic health and leading members from various indigenous communities and much more.
APRIL 22-MAY 6
Bay One-Acts Festival (BOA)
Boxcar Theatre, 505 Natoma Street, 415-776-7427
This showcase for new playwrights usually features a dozen new and exciting works by Bay Area writers.
APRIL 27-29
San Francisco New Living Expo
Concourse Exhibition Center, Eighth and Brannan Streets, 415-382-8300
Choose a new career path, build better relationships, improve health and discover the latest in new mind/body therapies. More than 100 renowned speakers and 300 exhibits sharing natural health products, body therapies, healthy foods and more.
APRIL 28
San Francisco International Beer Festival
Fort Mason Center, Festival Pavilion
Sample more than 300 incredible beers from some of the best craft brewers in the world as well as a variety of offerings from some of San Francisco’s best restaurants. Must be 21 or over to enter.
APRIL 28-29
Spring Open Studio
Hunters Point Shipyard and Islais Creek Studios (One Rankin St.)
One of America’s oldest and largest artists colonies opens to the general public; self-guided tour includes 150 artists in seven buildings and direct purchase of fine art from its makers.
APRIL 28-MAY 28
San Francisco Decorator Showcase
2020 Jackson St., 415-447-3115
http://www.decoratorshowcase.org/
With 35 years of excellence in design and the decorative arts and 20,000 visitors annually, this event is nationally recognized as one of the premier showcase houses in the country.
APRIL 29
Opening Day on the Bay
415-999-6422
Kick off sailing season on San Francisco Bay with a festive boat parade and the blessing of the fleet.
APRIL 28
International Lao New Year Festival
Civic Center Plaza
Showcasing Lao culture, pride and heritage; admission is free.
MAY 2012
MAY 1-31
DIVAfest
EXIT Theatre, 156 Eddy St., 415-931-1094
A theater festival with a "female persuasion" dedicated to the work of women writers and artists throughout the U.S.
MAY 2-20
San Francisco International Arts Festival
Various venues, 415-399-9554
Annual multi-disciplinary festival brings together the world community of artists and audiences to present and commission innovative, collaborative projects and performances.
MAY 5
Cinco de Mayo
Dolores Park, Dolores Street between 18th and 20th Streets
Bring a picnic basket and enjoy music, kid’s activities, entertainment, food, arts and crafts all day.
MAY 5-6
Annual Norway Days
Fort Mason Center, Festival Pavilion, 415-297-2147
Largest Norway-only festival in the U.S. showcases the best of Norwegian culture, food and music. Family-friendly festival with entertainment, cooking demonstrations, crafts, clothing, food, art and more.
MAY 6-OCTOBER 30
Yerba Buena Gardens Festival
Yerba Buena Gardens, 415-543-1718
The Yerba Buena Gardens Festival encompasses nearly 100 artistic, cultural and community events from May through October in Yerba Buena Gardens. Events include popular and operatic music series, cultural festivals, dance performances, international music concerts, visual art exhibits, theater and spoken word performances.
MAY 12-20
Young at Art 2012
de Young Museum, Golden Gate Park, 415-750-3600
www.famsf.org or www.youngatartsf.com
The de Young Museum teams up with the San Francisco Unified School District to present a celebration of student creativity and arts education showcasing visual and performing arts by 11,500 students from 250 schools.
MAY 13
How Weird Street Faire
Howard and Second Streets
Billed as a “street fair for the 21st century,” the event includes nine stages of music over seven city blocks; food and vendors from around the world, and educational booths.
MAY 19
Asian Heritage Street Celebration
Larkin Street near Asian Art Museum, 200 Larkin St., and Little Saigon area, 415-321-5894
A celebration of all Asian cultures, the Asian Heritage Street Celebration promotes and fosters Asian Pacific American identity; live entertainment and more than 50 vendors makes this one of the largest pan-Asian events in the U.S.
MAY 19
Uncorked – The San Francisco Wine Festival
Ghirardelli Square, 415-775-5500
Enjoy tastings from a variety of Bay Area wineries and experience the ambience of the waterfront and entertainment throughout Ghirardelli Square and along Beach Street.
MAY 20
Bay to Breakers
The Embarcadero to the Great Hwy., 415-359-2800
Since 1912, tens of thousands of people have gathered in San Francisco to see the world's largest footrace unfold as more than 70,000 costume-clad runners and walkers push off at 8 am.
MAY 26-27
Golden Gate Bridge 75TH Anniversary
Various locations, www.goldengatebridge75.org
May 27 marks 75 years for the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay Area is making big plans to honor the history, beauty, and ingenuity of this famous span. A spectacular two-day celebration is being planned May 26-27. Activities and special commemorative events will take place throughout the year.
MAY 26-27
Carnaval
Mission District, 415-642-1748
Celebrating its 34th anniversary San Francisco's version of Mardi Gras, one of its largest annual public events, features exotic carnaval dancers with a mixture of latino, jazz, samba, Caribbean influences. Festive parade on Sunday morning draws upon a broad cultural pageantry.
MAY 28 (TENTATIVE)
Alcatraz Challenge Swim
The 1.5 mile swim course begins near Alcatraz Island and finishes at the East Beach of Crissy Field located in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area’s Presidio Park.
JUNE 2012
JUNE 1-15
San Francisco Dine About Town™
Various restaurants, 415-391-2000
Bi-annual event featuring restaurants all over the city offering prix fixe lunches and dinners for special prices.
JUNE 2
San Francisco Symphony Black and White Ball
Davies Symphony Hall, Civic Center between Van Ness and Franklin, Hayes and Grove Streets, 415-864-6000
A tradition since 1956, the San Francisco Symphony has hosted the biennial Black & White Ball®, a distinctly San Francisco event. On June 2, Davies Symphony Hall will be awash in lights and sparkling glamour, featuring a variety of musical acts performing in the heart of the city.
JUNE 2-3
Union Street Eco-Urban Festival
Union Street between Gough and Steiner, 800-310-6563
One of San Francisco’s largest, free art festivals offers an organic farmers market, arts and crafts created with recycled and sustainable materials and eco-friendly exhibits; 150 artists, 20 gourmet food booths, live entertainment on two stages as well.
JUNE 7-JULY 1
Ethnic Dance Festival
Various locations including Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, Fort Mason, 415-474-3914
Hailed as “a glorious achievement,” by “The New York Times”; annual performance season of dance styles celebrates the diverse ethnic communities of the Bay Area.
JUNE 10
Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon
Marina Green, 424-653-1900
www.escapefromalcatraztriathlon.com
The 1.5 mile swim from Alcatraz, 18-mile bike ride and eight-mile run through the Golden Gate National Recreation Area with a finish at Marina Green draws some 2,000 triathletes/relay teams annually.
JUNE 10
Haight Ashbury Street Fair
Haight St. between Masonic and Stanyan Sts., 415-664-2970
www.haightashburystreetfair.org
Music, arts, crafts and food are the mainstay of this event celebrating the cultural history and diversity of one of San Francisco's most internationally celebrated neighborhoods – The Haight-Ashbury district.
JUNE 11-17
U.S. Open
The Olympic Club, 599 Skyline Blvd., 800-698-0661
This is the fifth time that the U.S. Open will be conducted at The Olympic Club and the first time since 1998. Limited tickets are still available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets include free public parking and shuttle bus transportation to and from the parking area and Championship entrance.
June 11-17
AIGA San Francisco Design Week
http://aigasf.org/events/designweek
AIGA SF will be partnering with the San Francisco chapters of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), the Interaction Design Association (IxDA), the Society for Environmental Graphic Design (SEGD), and Adobe Systems, to sponsor a full week of events highlighting the diversity and professionalism of the design community around the bay.
JUNE 14-24
Frameline 36, San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival
Castro Theatre, 415-703-8650
Legendary showcase of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender cinema screens groundbreaking documentaries, features, touching short films and cinematic classics.
JUNE 16-17
North Beach Festival
Near Washington Square Park, 415-989-2220
http://northbeachbusinessassociation.com/
San Francisco's oldest street fair delights with juried arts and crafts, live entertainment, pizza toss, kids fun zone with face painting, animal blessings and other surprises. Presented by the North Beach Business Association. Validated parking is available.
JUNE 23
Bicycle Music Festival
Golden Gate Park and Potrero Hill, 415-810-3696
http://bicyclemusicfestival.com/ or www.sfpt.org
This free, all-day (and late into the night), 100-percent, bicycle-powered, musical festival is the largest in the world; features 2,000-watt pedal-powered PA system, as many as 15 bands, multiple festival stops, Critical Mass-style bicycle party caravans and zero use of cars and trucks.
JUNE 23-24
San Francisco Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgender Pride Celebration Parade
Embarcadero to Civic Center, Market St., 415-864-FREE
San Francisco's annual celebration of lesbian and gay pride culminates with a festive parade from the Embarcadero to the Civic Center on June 24.
JUNE 24-AUGUST 26
Stern Grove Festival
Stern Grove, 19th Ave. and Sloat Blvd., 415-252-6252
The Stern Grove Festival celebrates its 75th season of free Sunday concerts featuring renowned music and dance groups set in a beautiful outdoor amphitheater in the heart of San Francisco.
JUNE 30
Ghirardelli Square KidsBash
Ghirardelli Square, 900 North Point, 415-775-5500
Little ones are invited to bounce in a jumpy house, take a train ride, twirl in bubbles, have their faces painted and enjoy live music in this festival tailored to them.
JULY 2011
JULY 4
Fourth of July Waterfront Festival
Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf, 415-705-5500
Dazzling fireworks, local bands, food, arts and crafts ignite this annual waterfront party. Fireworks begin around 9:30 p.m. Dress warmly.
JULY 7-8
Fillmore Street Jazz Festival
Fillmore St. between Jackson and Eddy Sts.,
Three stages of continuous jazz performances, more than 300 artists’ booths and international food courts with some of the best food and beverages that San Francisco has to offer.
JULY 12-15
San Francisco Silent Film Festival
Castro Theatre, 415-777-4908,
The San Francisco Silent Film Festival presents silent films accompanied by live music. This festival promotes silent film as art and historical record.
JULY 12-15
San Francisco Frozen Film Festival
Roxie Theater, www.frozenfilmfestival.com
Showcasing the year’s best new independent avant-garde pop culture films, the Frozen Film Festival takes its name from the distinct chill of the San Francisco summer.
JULY 13-14
Salsa Festival on The Fillmore
Fillmore Street, various venues
http://www.salsaonfillmore.com
Celebrating its second year, Sala Festival on The Fillmore closes off three city blocks for free concerts and outdoor dancing. Each night will begin with a free concert and salsa lesson at the Fillmore Center Plaza. Featured concerts will take place in various venues starting at 9 p.m.
JULY 19-AUGUST 6
San Francisco Jewish Film Festival
Castro Theater and other venues around the Bay Area, 415-621-0556 (info), 866-558-4253 (tickets)
Films from American and international filmmakers showcase the diversity and vitality of Jewish culture. The festival is the first, oldest and most prestigious celebration of its kind in the world.
JULY 21-22
The Renegade Craft Fair
Fort Mason Center
www.renegadecraft.com/san-francisco
The best makers of handmade goods from the Bay Area and beyond assemble for this free-to-attend marketplace for indie-craft culture featuring interactive workshops.
JULY 29
Up Your Alley Fair
Dore Alley between Folsom and Howard and adjoining block of Folsom between Ninth and 10th streets, 415-777-3247
Similar to September’s Folsom Street Fair, which is the climax of Leather Pride Week, this event has a more local appeal for leatherfolk and draws some 12,000+ attendees.
JULY 29
San Francisco Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K Run/Walk
Ferry Building, The Embarcadero, 415-284-9653
Enjoy the amazing city of San Francisco by taking part in one of the world's great marathons. The USAT&F Certified course is a "best of San Francisco" tour and includes a loop over the Golden Gate Bridge. Choose from running the marathon, half marathon, progressive marathon or 5K run/walk races.
JULY 30-AUGUST 5
SF Chefs. Food. Wine.
Union Square, www.sfchefsfoodwine.com
Chef, wine and spirits are celebrated in this interactive urban food and wine weekend featuring local talent and regional ingredients during four days of tastings, classes, dinners and events.
JULY 30-OCTOBER 20
AfroSolo Arts Festival
Various venues, 415-771-AFRO (2376)
Celebrating its 18th year, featuring celebrity and emerging African American artists in various performances such as theater, dance, music, spoken word and visual arts.
JULY (TBA)
The San Francisco Triathlon at Alcatraz
San Francisco Bay, 831-373-0678
www.tricalifornia.com/index.cfm/Alcatraz2011-main.htm
Part of the Tri-California series this competition draws 1,800 swimmers, bikers and runners; the 1.2-mile swim begins with a jump from a ferry into the bay near Alcatraz and ends at Marina Green; the 25-mile bike course travels through the city and ends with a 7.5-mile run.
JULY (TBA)
San Francisco Theater Festival
Fort Mason Center, 415-994-9431
An amazing one-day, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., annual celebration of live theater with more than 100 shows in a dozen indoor and outdoor venues, including shows created especially for children 12 and under.
AUGUST 2012
AUGUST 4-6
ACC Craft Show
Fort Mason Center, 800-836-3470
This is the largest juried craft event in the West, featuring more than 230 of the nation's top contemporary jewelry, clothing, furniture and home décor artists.
AUGUST 4-5
Nihonmachi Street Fair
Japantown and Japan Center, 415-771-9861
A celebration of the Asian and Pacific communities in the Bay Area, with an emphasis on the nonprofit organizations that provide vital services. Live musical and cultural performances, Asian artisans, food, information tables, exhibits, and Children's World.
AUGUST 5
Jerry Day
Jerry Garcia Amphitheater, 40 John F. Shelley Dr., 415-272-2012
The Excelsior District celebrates native son and Grateful Dead leader Jerry Garcia with an outdoor concert and family fun.
AUGUST 10-12
San Francisco’s Outside Lands Music & Arts Festival
Golden Gate Park
This huge event in Golden Gate Park has upped the ante on music festivals going green and “leveraged San Francisco’s food, wine, technology and activism cultures, “according to Rolling Stone, “for a one-of-a-kind world-class experience.”
AUGUST 11-19 AND AUGUST 27-SEPTEMBER 2
America’s Cup World Series
The new America’s Cup World Series — featuring all of the America’s Cup competitors — stops in San Francisco for a prelude to the 34th America’s Cup which starts with the Louis Vuitton Cup July 4-Sept. 1, 2013 and finishes with the America’s Cup Finals Sept. 7-22, 2013.
AUGUST 18
San Francisco Street Food Festival
Mission District on Folsom Street between 22nd and 26th Streets and adjacent streets, 415-824-2729
La Cocina brings together more than 70 micro-entrepreneurs, informal food vendors and renowned chefs to celebrate and promote great street food.
SEPTEMBER 2012
SEPTEMBER 1-3
Sausalito Art Festival
Sausalito, 415-332-3555
Sausalito’s yearly art festival has been showcasing stars from the contemporary art world since 1952. Browse fine art and crafts along the beautiful bay shore.
SEPTEMBER 1-30
Architecture and the City
Citywide, 415-362-7397
Sponsored by AIA San Francisco, the largest architectural and design festival in the U.S. includes a series of architectural tours, film screenings, exhibitions, design lectures, home shows and more.
SEPTEMBER 3 (TENTATIVE)
Metromint Giro di San Francisco
Levi Strauss Plaza
Featuring more than 800 amateur and pro racers on a course covering northeast San Francisco, Il Giro (Italian for tour) begins at Levi Strauss Plaza and includes a day-long expo and a series of races for all levels and concludes with a pro race at 3 p.m.
SEPTEMBER 3-25 (WEEKENDS ONLY AND LABOR DAY MONDAY)
San Francisco Shakespeare Festival
Main Post Parade Ground Lawn, Presidio, 415-558-0888
Shakespeare’s “Cymbeline,” a tragicomic history of a mythical British king, is this summer’s fresh take in the fresh air of the Bard’s best.
SEPTEMBER 5-16
San Francisco Fringe Festival
Exit Theatre and other downtown venues,
415-931-1094 (info), 800-965-4827 or 415-673-3847(tickets)
The 21st annual festival is a marathon of 40-plus shows with low price tickets and a wide variety of alternative, classical, comedy, cabaret and new theater open to all performers on a non-curated basis.
SEPTEMBER 7
San Francisco Opera Opening Gala
War Memorial Opera House, 415-864-3330
The 2012-13 season begins with the annual opening night gala, Opera Ball 2012.
SEPTEMBER 8-9
Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival
Ghirardelli Square, 415-775-5500
Discover unique chocolate desserts and delicacies from Ghirardelli and beyond at this annual chocolate celebration.
SEPTEMBER 9
San Francisco Opera in the Park
Sharon Meadow, Golden Gate Park, 415-864-3330
Enjoy this outdoor venue and free admission to an opera concert featuring arias and ensembles by the stars of the San Francisco Opera and the Opera Orchestra, beginning at 1:30 p.m.
SEPTEMBER 12
Family Winemakers of California Wine Tasting
Fort Mason Center, Festival Pavilion, 916-498-7500
Originally a “to the trade only” event, this annual tasting has evolved into a highly anticipated event where many new, hard-to-find wines debut. These are the largest tastings of California wines in the world and a showcase for the state’s small, family-owned wineries.
SEPTEMBER 12
Noe Valley Wine Walk
24th Street from Diamond to Chattanooga, 800-310-6563
Merchants offer wine samples, finger foods and special treats; attendees who wish to sample purchase tasting wristband prior to event and receive wine glass and map with all tasting locations.
SEPTEMBER 15
Opera at the Ballpark
AT&T Park, 24 Willie Mays Plaza
Opera under the stars in this free simulcast from the War Memorial Opera House to AT&T Park’s high-definition scoreboard is a unique opportunity for fans to enjoy the sights and sounds of the San Francisco Opera.
SEPTEMBER 15-16
San Francisco International Dragon Boat Festival
Treasure Island
Nearly 100 dragon boat teams and 2,500 paddlers from across North America will race the 500-meter course; festival also features entertainment and children’s activities.
SEPTEMBER 16
The Giant Race
AT&T Park, 415-972-1800
The Giant Race features a half marathon, 10K, and 5K distances that all lead through San Francisco’s historic streets and finish on the field at AT&T Park – home of the San Francisco Giants.
SEPTEMBER 16
Comedy Day
Sharon Meadow, Golden Gate Park, 415-820-1570
Laugh out loud … it’s the 31st anniversary no less of this free comedy “concert” featuring 30+ of the U.S.’s and Bay Area’s best comedians.
SEPTEMBER 17-23 (TENTATIVE)
San Francisco Cocktail Week
Bay Area
San Francisco’s liquid culture, cocktail heritage, bar talent and industry is toasted with a spirited, weeklong celebration held in venues, bars and restaurants throughout the Bay Area.
SEPTEMBER 22
Sausalito Floating Homes Tour
Sausalito, 415-332-1916
Self-guided tours from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. include access to 18 of the most unique homes in the world; docents are onboard to describe Sausalito’s incredible waterfront style and to answer questions.
SEPTEMBER 22-23
Autumn Moon Festival
Grant Ave. between California and Pacific Streets, 415-982-6306
This event features multicultural entertainment, traditional lion and dragon dances, arts and crafts, lantern village, moon cakes and children's activities.
SEPTEMBER 22-23
Polk Street Blues Festival
Polk Street, California Street to Broadway, 800-310-6563
Two main stages, a merchant marketplace, arts and crafts, gourmet food booths and much more are all a part of this annual homage to San Francisco’s blues roots.
SEPTEMBER 23
Folsom Street Fair
Folsom Street between Seventh and 12th Streets, 415-777-3247
The “daddy of all leather celebrations,” the Folsom Street Fair is the largest leather, alternative and fetish street fair in the world drawing some 400,000 attendees annually, dressed in leather, rubber, uniforms, drag or very little at all.
SEPTEMBER 28-30
Oktoberfest By The Bay
Pier 48 near AT&T Park, 888-746-7522
Bringing Munich’s autumn beer festival to the Bay, Oktoberfest features non-stop singing, dancing, music, German food and beverages.
SEPTEMBER 30
Glide Bridge to Bridge Run
Golden Gate Bridge to Bay Bridge, 415-995-6868
Participants run from the Bay Bridge to the Golden Gate in this seaside 12K and 7K race.
SEPTEMBER (TBA)
San Francisco Jazz Festival
Various locations, 866-920-5299
One of San Francisco's biggest and best musical festivals features local, national and international jazz artist performances at locations throughout San Francisco.
SEPTEMBER (TBA)
San Francisco Symphony’s Opening Gala
Davies Symphony Hall, 415-552-8000
The San Francisco Symphony opens its 101st season with a gala opening evening.
SEPTEMBER (TBA)
Seventh Annual Peak2Peak Walk
415-431-9255
Get a unique view of San Francisco's skyline and discover hidden stairways and paths on this 12-mile urban trek connecting neighborhoods, parks, and vistas as you walk the spine of the city, cresting 10 peaks along the way.
SEPTEMBER (TBA)
Family Day Kite Festival
Marina Green, 415-383-0500
Free, open-air, panoramic and eco-friendly event features all forms of kiting from kite-flying to kite-boarding to kite-boating.
SEPTEMBER (TBA)
Shuck & Swallow Oyster Challenge
West Plaza, Ghirardelli Square, 900 North Point, 415-929-1730
More than 10,000 oysters will be consumed in this combination oyster challenge and oyster and wine pairing reception beginning at 5 p.m.
SEPTEMBER (TBA)
Sausalito Floating Homes Tour
Sausalito, 415-332-1916
Self-guided tours from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. include access to 20 of the most unique homes in the world; docents are onboard to describe Sausalito’s incredible waterfront style and to answer questions.
OCTOBER 2012
OCTOBER 4-8
Fleet Week San Francisco
Aquatic Park and Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf, 650-599-5057
Fleet Week is the Bay Area’s opportunity to honor the nation’s men and women of the Navy and marine services. Celebrates the Centennial of naval aviation. Navy ship tours and air show. Reserved seating and corporate packages available.
OCTOBER 5-7
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
Hellman Hollow, Golden Gate Park
www.hardlystrictlybluegrass.com
This free celebration of music in the park includes a who’s who of top entertainment.
OCTOBER 5-13
Litquake
Citywide, www.litquake.org
A San Francisco literary festival showcases hundreds of the Bay Area’s finest writers for a week of readings, discussions, films, cross-media happenings and more
OCTOBER 7 (TENTATIVE)
Madonna del Lume - Blessing of the Fishing Fleet
Fisherman’s Wharf
www.visitfishermanswharf.com or www.sfcolumbusday.org
Traditionally the first Sunday in October, this event goes back several centuries.
OCTOBER 7
Castro Street Fair
Castro Street, 415-841-1824
Arts and crafts booths, live entertainment, dancing and music are all part of the fun at this gay-friendly street festival.
OCTOBER 7
San Francisco Italian Heritage Parade and Festival
Fisherman’s Wharf and North Beach, 415-703-9888
The city celebrates its Italian heritage with a lively parade through North Beach with food, music, entertainment and celebrities, beginning at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct.7.
OCTOBER 10
Union Street Wine Walk
Union Street from Gough to Steiner and Fillmore Street from Union to Lombard, 800-310-6563, www.sresproductions.com
Restaurants and merchants along Union Street offer hors d’oeuvres and wine samples; attendees who wish to sample purchase tasting wristband prior to event and receive wine glass and map with all tasting locations
OCTOBER 11-14
Sundance Stompede
Sundance Saloon, 550 Barneveld Ave., 415-820-1403
San Francisco’s annual Country Western weekend for the LGBT community and friends. Join hundreds of cowboys and cowgirls as they dance their feet off with three days of workshops and three nights of open dancing.
OCTOBER 13-14
Treasure Island Music Festival
www.treasureislandfestival.com
Internationally renowned artists gather for a spectacular two-day, outdoor concert festival featuring electronic music and indie pop, local designers, artists, food and beverage. The two festival stages are erected on Treasure Island offering amazing views of the bay and the San Francisco skyline.
OCTOBER 14
Nike Women’s Marathon
http://inside.nike.com/blogs/nikerunning_events-en_US/?tags=nike_womens_marathon_2011
Nike celebrates the eighth year of the Nike Women's Marathon with 20,000 women racing together through the streets of San Francisco to raise funds and awareness for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
OCTOBER 20
Potrero Hill Festival
Potrero Hill, 22nd Street between Missouri and Arkansas Streets
The Potrero Hill Festival returns with a full day of fun, food, music and community activities. There will be special activities for the kids, including a puppet show and a petting zoo.
OCTOBER 20
29th Annual LEAP Sandcastle Contest
Ocean Beach, Great Highway
Architects, engineers, contractors, designers and a host of San Francisco school children collaborate every year to create majestic sculptures from sand.
OCTOBER 21
Fiesta on the Hill
Cortland Avenue between Bocana and Folsom Street, Bernal Heights, 800-310-6563
For more than two decades this neighborhood street fair has drawn more than 15,000 people to this family-friendly event featuring pony rides, a petting zoo, pumpkin patch, local artists and live music.
OCTOBER 25-28
San Francisco Fall Antiques Show
Fort Mason Center, 415-989-9019
The oldest continuously operating international antiques show on the West Coast. Currently celebrating its 29th year, the show includes 70 distinguished antiques dealers from America and Europe selling a broad range of antique merchandise.
OCTOBER 26-28
International Vintage Poster Fair
Landmark Building A, Fort Mason Center, 800-856-8069
The oldest and largest vintage poster fair in the world features American and European posters from the 1890s to the 1980s.
OCTOBER (TBA)
Fall Open Studio
Hunters Point Shipyard and Islais Creek Studios (One Rankin St.)
One of America’s oldest and largest artists colonies opens to the general public; self-guided tour includes 150 artists in seven buildings and direct purchase of fine art from its makers.
OCTOBER (TBA)
ArtSpan/SF Open Studios
Various locations, 415-861-9838
San Francisco’s most exciting artists open their doors to the public and reveal their latest projects, how they work and what’s for sale.
OCTOBER (TBA)
The Junior Grand National and the Grand National Rodeo, Horse and Stock Show
Cow Palace, 415-404-4111, www.grandnationalrodeo.com
Bareback riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing, saddle bronc riding, team and tie-down roping and bull riding are among the competitive events. For the Junior Grand National members of 4-H and FFA, ages 9-19, compete for cash awards for their show animals including steers, hogs, sheep, goats and rabbits; a professional bull riding event is also part of the schedule.
OCTOBER (TBA)
Portola Festival
San Bruno Avenue between Bacon and Silliman Sts., 415-574-9170
Portola Festival on San Bruno Avenue was created to spotlight the diversity, character and distinctiveness of one of the city’s most interesting and fastest growing neighborhoods.
*Subject to change depending on schedule for San Francisco 49ers.
OCTOBER (TBA)
Taste of the Fillmore
Fillmore Street between Pine and California Streets, www.thefillmoredistrict.com
This one-of-a-kind event in the historic Fillmore district includes food sampling, wine tasting, jazz, chef demos from nearby restaurants and a fashion show featuring local boutiques.
NOVEMBER 2012
MID-NOVEMBER
3RD I Film Festival South Asian Film Festival
Castro and Roxie Theaters, 415-835-4783, www.thirdi.org
Committed to promoting diverse images of South Asians through independent film, from art-house classics to documentary films.
NOVEMBER 2-10
American Indian Film Festival
Palace of Fine Arts and Landmark Embarcadero, 415-554-0525
The world’s oldest festival dedicated to films by and about Native Americans showcases new and exciting work.
NOVEMBER 7-11
San Francisco World Music Festival
Various venues, 415-561-6571
Music festival showcases the musical diversity from the Bay Area and around the globe by presenting high quality world music performances by master artists both locally and overseas, and from traditional to contemporary explorations.
NOVEMBER 8-21
San Francisco Documentary Film Festival (DocFest)
Roxie Cinemas, 3117 16th St., 415-820-3907
These documentaries, while exploring fun and lighthearted subject matter, often uncover serious truths. Promoted by the SF IndieFest.
NOVEMBER 10-11
San Francisco Green Festival
Concourse Exhibition Center, 800-497-1994
Celebrating its 11th year, this joint project of Green America and Global Exchange brings individuals, businesses and investors together to work cooperatively on positive social and economic solutions for communities and the environment. This is one of the largest and most authentic sustainability events in the world.
NOVEMBER 9-11
Celebration of Craftswomen
Fort Mason Center, Festival Pavilion, 650-615-6838
www.celebrationofcraftswomen.org/
Visit the 34th annual celebration of the nation’s largest women’s craft fair featuring fine quality crafts from 300 artists, working in glass, fiber, ceramics, jewelry, leather, paper, sculpture, wood and other fine arts
NOVEMBER 16
Embarcadero Center Building Lighting Ceremony
Justin Herman Plaza, Embarcadero Center, 800-733-6318
Bring the family to stroll through a holiday fair, enjoy live entertainment and witness the lighting of the Embarcadero Center’s dramatic office towers which illuminate the San Francisco skyline with 17,000 lights throughout the season.
NOVEMBER 18
Tree Lighting Celebration at Pier 39
Pier 39, 415-705-5500
Engage in fun for the whole family with interactive exhibits, holiday sing alongs and more. Pier 39's majestic tree, adorned with glistening ornaments and twinkling lights will be lit at 6 p.m. in the Entrance Plaza; festivities begin at noon.
NOVEMBER 22
Turkey Trail Trot
Golden Gate Park
This invigorating fun run or walk has become a popular Thanksgiving Day tradition.
NOVEMBER 22-DECEMBER 2
San Francisco International Automobile Show
Moscone Center, 415-331-4406
Featuring the world’s major manufacturers displaying their 2013 model cars, SUV’s, trucks and vans...almost 800 vehicles in all.
NOVEMBER 23
Ghirardelli Square Tree Lighting Ceremony
Ghirardelli Square, 415-775-5500
Ghirardelli’s magical square comes alive with colorful performers, music and a 50-foot Christmas tree lighting up the night.
NOVEMBER 23-DECEMBER 23 (WEEKENDS ONLY)
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair
Cow Palace, 415-897-4555
The Dickens Christmas Fair revives the tradition of an old English Victorian Christmas with theaters, a music hall, dance parties, taverns, shops, stalls, food, street vendors and period costumes.
NOVEMBER 25
Run Wild for a Child 5K and 10K
Golden Gate Park, 415-759-2690
This 10K run and 5K run/walk, where participants often dress in costumes, benefits San Francisco Firefighters Toy program.
NOVEMBER 25-26
The Great San Francisco Crystal Fair
Fort Mason Center, 415-383-7837
http://home.earthlink.net/~sfxtl/index.html
More than 40 exhibitors celebrating earth and spirit with a wide variety of gems and minerals (quartz, amethyst, tourmaline, etc.), jewelry, metaphysics, healing tools and the mystical arts.
NOVEMBER (TBA)
San Francisco Hip-Hop Dance Festival
Micaya, local teacher, choreographer and producer presents hip hop dance companies from around the world at this award-winning, multi-cultural dance festival.
DECEMBER 2012
DECEMBER 1
Union Street Fantasy of Lights
Union Street between Van Ness and Steiner, 800-310-6563
www.sresproductions.com or www.unionstreetsf.com
Costumed characters, Santa, merchant open houses and activities for children launch the holiday season along this famous street in San Francisco, 3 to 9 p.m.
DECEMBER 8
Parol Lantern Festival & Parade
Jessie Square/St. Patrick’s Church/Yerba Buena Gardens, 415-348-8042
Grand pageantry of more than 1,000 glowing lanterns; annual Parol celebration has become a must-see holiday event. Bay Area Filipino community gathers for the tenth annual celebration of holiday spirit, hope, unity and pride. It is a family fun filled evening of dancing lights, music, games and prizes, 5 to 8 p.m.
DECEMBER (TBA)
Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl
AT&T Park, 24 Willie Mays Plaza, 415-625-2870
Enjoy the color and excitement of high impact college football as two of the country's top teams clash at the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl.
DECEMBER (TBA)
San Francisco Ballet Nutcracker
War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave., 415-865-2000 (tickets)
"Nutcracker" performed by America's oldest ballet company presents Tchaikovsky's beloved family classic every year.
DECEMBER (TBA)
Noe Valley Holiday Wine Walk
24th Street from Diamond to Chattanooga, 800-310-6563
Merchants offer wine samples, finger foods and special treats; attendees who wish to sample purchase tasting wristband prior to event and receive wine glass and map with all tasting locations.
# # #
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