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Free Events in San Francisco: The Best Annual Festivals, Fairs, Parades, & More!
By: Jill Loeffler • Updated: August 31, 2026
Give your budget a break with these annual free events in San Francisco. They range from large cultural festivals like Japantown's Cherry Blossom Festival to performances like live music concerts at Stern Grove Park.
Every year, there are hundreds of free events all around SF. My list includes the largest and most popular of our annual festivals, fairs, parades, shows, and more.
Admission is free to all of these events. Many charge for food, drinks, and some other activities, so keep this in mind before you arrive.
The fireworks over the San Francisco Bay on the Fourth of July is one of the most popular free events every year.SFTourismTips is made possible by readers like you! If you book through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! Learn more.
September 2026 Free Events in San Francisco
The Chinatown Autumn Moon Festival is a huge festival in the Chinatown District every year. It includes a parade and a street festival.Chinatown Autumn Moon Festival
Dates: 9/19 - 9/20
This free annual event involves two days of food, entertainment, and arts and crafts in the heart of SF's Chinatown.
In addition to the colorful street fair, you'll find a lively parade that opens the event on Saturday morning, featuring traditional dress, lion dancers, marching bands, and more.
Location: Grant Avenue in Chinatown
>> Read more about this traditional Chinese celebration
Comedy Day
Date: Sunday, September 20
SF has a strong comedy community. Every year for over 40 years, comedians have given back to their fans with a free day of comedy in the park.
Comedy Day lasts from around noon to 5 pm with dozens of performers gracing the stage.
Location: Robin Williams Meadow in Golden Gate Park
Folsom Street Fair
Date: 9/27 from 11 am to 6 pm
This is the world's largest leather event in the world.
Every September, 13 blocks of SF's SOMA District come alive with entertainment and more than 200 vendors selling leather, toys, and more. This is not a kid-friendly event.
While the event is free, they do ask for donations at the door.
Location: Folsom Street in SOMA
Haight Street Fair
Date: Sunday, September 20
Head over to the famed Haight-Ashbury District for its free annual street fair celebrating San Francisco’s counterculture legacy.
It features live music, food, and unique arts and crafts vendors. There are two stages to enjoy the performances as well as a kids zone.
Location: Haight Street between Stanyan and Masonic
Opera in the Park
Date: 9/13 at 1:30 pm
Each year, the SF Opera kicks off its fall schedule with a free performance in Golden Gate Park.
It's a great way to learn more about SF's upcoming opera season and hear from some of our talented local performers.
Location: Robin Williams Meadow in Golden Gate Park
Shakespeare in the Park
Dates for Anthony & Cleopatra in 2026:
- McLaren Park, 9/5, 9/6, 9/7, 9/12, 9/13
- Sue Bierman Park: 9/19, 9/20, 9/26, 9/27
Every September, the SF Shakespeare Festival hosts several free performances in parks around the Bay Area.
Each year, they select a different play and perform it on several days throughout the month.
SF Locations: Sue Bierman Park (across from the Ferry Building) and the amphitheater in McLaren Park.
More Free SF Events in September 2026
- Free Museum Days around San Francisco, find full calendar
- 9/3: Downtown First Thursdays, 5 pm to 10 pm, 90 Natoma Street
- 9/3: Free Movie Screening in Japantown, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, 7 pm to 9 pm
- 9/3: SF First Thursdays Art Walk at the Hotel Emblem, 5 pm to 9 pm
- 9/4: North Beach First Friday Artwalk, 5 pm to 9 pm
- 9/4 - 9/6: Golden Gate Makers & Vendor Market at the Fort Mason Center, 9 am to 6:30 pm
- 9/4 - 9/6: San Francisco Outdoor Handmade Artisan Show at the Palace of Fine Arts from 10 am to 6 pm
- 9/6: Castro Art Mart, Market & Noe Streets 2 pm to 8 pm
- 9/6, 9/7: SF Mime Troupe Performances at Dolores Park
- 9/6: World Arts West Dance Festival at the Presidio Tunnel Tops East Meadow, from 1 pm to 4 pm
- 9/6: Chinatown Car Show & Car Parade along Grant Avenue, 10 am to 3:30 pm
- 9/9: Chinatown Night Out, Willie Wood Playground Park from 4 pm to 7 pm
- 9/10: Valencia Live! in the Mission between 18th and 21st
- 9/10: Free Movie Screening in Japantown, What About Bob?, 7 pm to 9 pm
- 9/11: Chinatown Night Market, Grant Avenue from California to Pacific, 5 pm to 9 pm
- 9/12: Festival of the Sea at Maritime National Historical Park from 11 am to 5 pm
- 9/12: Live on Larkin, Catrachita Yucarteca at 601 Larkin Street from 12 pm to 5 pm
- 9/12: Kite by the Bay at Candlestick Point State Recreation Area, 1 pm to 4 pm
- 9/12: Plaza Palooza Festival at Soft Park, Levi's Plaza from 11 am to 4 pm
- 9/12: Girls Day at Planet 2026, 645 Harrison Street, 9:30 am to 4 pm
- 9/12: Autumn Moon Festival in the Richmond, Clement Street from 11 am to 3 pm
- 9/12: Castro Wellness Street Fair on Noe between Market and Beaver Streets, 1 pm to 5 pm
- 9/12: Film, Chinatown (1995), 1 pm to 3 pm at the SF Public Library on Larkin, film plus director discussion
- 9/13: Noe Valley Art Festival at the Noe Valley Town Square
- 9/13: Blankets & Blockbusters, The Lion King at Thrive City from 12 pm to 3 pm
- 9/16: Nature Resource Fair at the Randall Museum, 4 pm to 6 pm
- 9/17: Free Movie Screening in Japantown, Coming to America, 7 pm to 9 pm
- 9/18: Oktoberfest on Front, Free Block Party at 240 Front Street starting at 2 pm
- 9/18: Secret Lives of Pets 2, Free Outdoor Showing, 9 pm to 9:30 pm at the Proxy Walk-In Theater
- 9/19: Europe in the Park, Peacock Meadow in Golden Gate Park from 1 pm to 6 pm
- 9/19: San Francisco Lowrider Parade and "King of the Streets" Hopping Competition, along Mission Street, 12 pm to 8 pm
- 9/19: Tidefest at The Ripride from 1 pm to 9 pm
- 9/19: Culture on Ocean along Granada Avenue, 12 pm to 2 pm
- 9/19: City Kids Family Fair, Children's Council of San Francisco, 445 Church Street from 10 am to 1 pm
- 9/20: Fiesta on the Hill in Bernal Heights from 10 am to 4 pm
- 9/22: Sunset Dunes Night Walk, Octavius Octopus Statue from 8 pm to 10 pm
- 9/24: Free Movie Screening in Japantown, Spirited Away, 7 pm to 9 pm
- 9/25: School of Rock, Sundown Cinema at the Ferry Building
- 9/25: Bollywood Festive Nights with Rang De Bollywood in Union Square from 5 pm to 8 pm
- 9/25: Sunset Night Market, Autumn Moon Festival in the Outer Sunset District on Irving between 20th and 25th Avenues
- 9/26: SECC Indoor Family Movie Club Presents Moana from 12 pm to 4pm at the Southeast Community Center
- 9/26: Cinema on the Square in Union Square, The Conversation from 5 pm to 9 pm
- 9/26: Folsom Street's Miracle Mile Walking Tour, 12 pm to 2:30 pm, reserve a spot
- 9/26 & 9/27: SF Open Studios Weekend
- 9/26: Chuseok Festival in the Presidio
- 9/27: German Day in Golden Gate Park at the Bandshell from 11 am to 4 pm
- 9/27: Cole Valley Fair at Cole Street and Parnassus Ave
- 9/27: Bodhi Mid-Autumn Festival Community Fair, San Francisco County Fair Building from 10 am to 5 pm
- 9/27: Salesforce Park Garden Walk, 9/27 from 10:15 am to 12:30 pm
- Several: Cultural Performances at the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival in SOMA
- Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays: Live Concerts at the Golden Gate Bandshell in Golden Gate Park
>> Even more fun things to do in San Francisco in September
October 2026 Free San Francisco Events
The crowds at the annual Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival in Golden Gate Park. This annual 3-day event draws in around 150,000 attendees each day.Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival
Dates: 10/2 - 10/4
Each year on the first weekend in October, you will find a massive three-day bluegrass festival that is free to the public.
It features smaller acts but also well-known singers such as the Indigo Girls, Los Lobos, and Emmylou Harris.
Location: Hellman Hollow, Lindley and Marx Meadows in Golden Gate Park
>> Get my insider's tips on attending this free bluegrass festival
Fleet Week
Dates: 10/4 - 10/12
Each October, the US Navy rolls into town for the annual Fleet Week celebration.
The event includes a large air show over the SF Bay featuring the Blue Angels, the chance for the public to step aboard four or five historic naval ships, and several other fun activities along SF's northern waterfront.
Location: Fisherman's Wharf; air show visible from Crissy Field, Aquatic Park, Pier 39
>> Additional details on this year's Fleet Week
Castro Street Fair
Date: 10/4
The free Castro Street Fair always takes place on the first Sunday in October. This one-day event was started by Harvey Milk to celebrate the LGBTQ community and their allies.
The event features two live entertainment stages, two dance alleys, food vendors, and so much more.
Location: Market and Castro Street in the heart of the Castro
Family Halloween Events
For Halloween, you'll find all sorts of free, family-friendly fun all around town. Here are my top picks:
- Randall Museum: Crafts, science experiments, games, face painting, and more
- Ghirardelli Square: "Spooky Square" with entertainment, kids activities, and a costume contest for pets
- Yerba Buena Gardens: "Halloween Hoopla" with music, crafts, and a costume parade
- Haight-Ashbury neighborhood: "Halloween Hootenanny" with games, activities, jumpy house, performances, and costume contest
>> More fun family Halloween events
Italian Heritage Parade
Date: 10/11
This tradition began over 150 years ago as a Columbus Day celebration. It's the city's oldest civic event and continues to celebrate Italian heritage today.
Location: Starts in Fisherman's Wharf and winds its way around to the heart of North Beach
Leap's Sandcastle Contest
Date: 10/25
If you loved to build sandcastles as a kid, you will love this annual themed sandcastle-building contest on SF's Ocean Beach.
While it does cost to enter the competition, it's free to attend and see all of the amazing creations.
Location: Ocean Beach and Balboa Street
Litquake
Dates: October 8 - 24
Litquake is SF's longest running literary festival. Each year, you will find dozens of free workshops, talks, and other events focused on literature.
It's a great way to meet up-and-coming authors and get to know other literary lovers.
Locations: Several around town
More Free SF Events in October 2026
- Free Museum Days around San Francisco, find full calendar
- 10/1: Downtown First Thursdays, 5 pm to 10 pm, 90 Natoma Street
- 10/1: SF First Thursdays Art Walk at the Hotel Emblem, 5 pm to 9 pm
- 10/2: North Beach First Friday Artwalk, 5 pm to 9 pm
- 10/2: R-Evolution, One Last Day to Gather, Artists Panels and Farewell Party, Embarcadero Plaza from 2 pm to 8 pm
- 10/3: African Arts Festival at the Yerba Buena Gardens from 11 am to 4 pm
- 10/3: Middle Eastern Food Festival, 12 pm to 9 pm
- 10/3 & 10/4, 10/10 & 10/11, 10/17 & 10/18, + 10/24 & 10/25: Open Studios around SF
- 10/4: Castro Art Mart, Market & Noe Streets 2 pm to 8 pm
- 10/8: Valencia Live! in the Mission between 18th and 21st
- 10/9: Chinatown Night Market, Grant Avenue from California to Pacific, 5 pm to 9 pm
- 10/10: Mass at Mission Dolores to Celebrate 250 years, 11 am to 1 pm
- 10/10: Bollywood Garba at Union Square, 11 am to 2 pm
- 10/11: Buchertown Jazz Festival, Gratta Wines, 11 am to 5 pm
- 10/15: Haunted Halloween Hoopla at Fifty Vara in the Sunset District, Night Market from 3 pm to 8 pm
- 10/16: Beetlejuice, Sundown Cinema at Crane Cove Park
- 10/17: Potrero Hill Festival on 20th Street between Missouri and Wisconsin
- 10/17: Bearrison Street Fair at 11th and Harrison in SOMA
- 10/17: Old Car Picnic at Golden Gate Park's Historic Speedway Meadow
- 10/17 & 10/18: Filipino American International Book Festival at the San Francisco Main Library
- 10/18: Sunday Streets in the Excelsior
- 10/25: World of Dumplings, Ferry Building from 11 am to 5 pm
- 10/31: Fillmore After Dark, Thriller Night Market and Halloween Special
- 10/31: SECC Indoor Family Movie Club Presents A Minecraft Movie from 12 pm to 4 pm at the Southeast Community Center
- Several: Cultural Performances at the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival in SOMA
- Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays: Live Concerts at the Golden Gate Bandshell in Golden Gate Park
>> Discover additional events in SF this October
November 2026 Free San Francisco Events
Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos)
Date: 11/2
The Day of the Dead is a traditional Mesoamerican holiday honoring the cycle of life and those who have died.
Their Festival of Altars starts at 12 pm with a High Noon ceremony. You can visit the altars all afternoon.
Entertainment begins at 5 pm and runs until 9 pm.
Location: Potrero Del Sol Park
Tree Lighting Celebrations
It's that time of year when the night sky lights up with holiday decor and festive Christmas trees. You can attend several free tree-lighting ceremonies to take part in the cheer. Here are some of the most popular.
- Ghirardelli Square: tree lighting with music and other entertainment, usually the Friday after Thanksgiving
- Pier 39: light and music show beginning the week of Thanksgiving
- Embarcadero Center: holiday market and building lighting with specialty cocktails for purchase
>> Full calendar of tree lighting celebrations
Westin St. Francis Sugar Castle
If you're around the weekend of Thanksgiving, don't miss the unveiling of the Westin St. Francis's famous Sugar Castle.
Every year, the creative chefs here create a sweet edible masterpiece with 1,000 pieces of candy. It's amazing to see. The castle is open for public viewing every day through the first few days in January.
Location: Westin St. Francis Hotel in Union Square
More Free SF Events in November 2026
- Free Museum Days around San Francisco, find full calendar
- 11/1: Castro Art Mart, Market & Noe Streets 2 pm to 8 pm
- 11/5: Downtown First Thursdays, 5 pm to 10 pm, Natoma Cabana
- 11/5: SF First Thursdays Art Walk at the Hotel Emblem, 5 pm to 9 pm
- 11/6: North Beach First Friday Artwalk, 5 pm to 9 pm
- 11/8: Diwali Festival at the Yerba Buena Gardens from 1 pm to 5 pm
- 11/8: Blankets & Blockbusters, The Lion King at Thrive City from 12 pm to 3 pm
- 11/13: Bhangra & Beats Night Market at Yerba Buena Gardens, 4 pm to 9 pm
- 11/14 & 11/15: Renegade Craft Fair at Fort Mason
- 11/15: Workshop: How to Write a Memoir, Short Story, and Essay at the SF Public Library on Larkin, 2 pm to 3:30 pm
- 11/21 & 11/22: West Coast Craft Fair at Fort Mason
- 11/21: SECC Indoor Family Movie Club Presents Raya and the Last Dragon from 12 pm to 4 pm at the Southeast Community Center
>> Discover a full list of November happenings in San Francisco
December 2026 Free Events in SF
I love taking pictures of the lights on the Fisherman's Wharf sign. They usually light it up in late November and it keeps its colorful lights through the end of the year.SantaCon
Nothing brings holiday cheer like roaming through the streets of SF in your best Santa costume with thousands of others dressed just like you!
This now global annual event started in San Francisco as a non-political, non-violent, non-controversial day of fun.
Location: Union Square
2026 Date: 12/12
>> Get more details about this quirky tradition
Let's Glow Projection Festival
If you love holiday light displays, you're in for a treat with these free animated light shows featuring colorful, larger-than-life art projections mapped onto various iconic buildings around town.
Some of the shows offer music and free hot chocolate while supplies last.
Locations: 8 buildings, including the Ferry Building and the Transamerica Pyramid
2026 Dates: TBD
Lighted Boat Parade
Sit back and relax on our northern shoreline as you take in a festive light show honoring SF's maritime tradition.
You will see more than 60 vessels glide by, glowing with colorful holiday lights as they cruise around the SF Bay.
Location: Visible from the Fisherman’s Wharf waterfront between Pier 39 and the Marina Green
2026 Date: TBD
New Year's Eve Fireworks
At 11:59 pm every New Year’s Eve, the city of San Francisco celebrates with a large fireworks display.
The show lasts for about 30 minutes as folks welcome in the new year and start making their way to NYE parties around town.
Location: Visible from the Embarcadero, between the Bay Bridge and the Ferry Building
Date: 12/31
>> Check out the top NYE cruises that take you to see the fireworks from the water
More December 2026 Free Events
- Free Museum Days around San Francisco, find full calendar
- 12/3: Downtown First Thursdays, 5 pm to 10 pm, Natoma Cabana
- 12/3: SF First Thursdays Art Walk at the Hotel Emblem, 5 pm to 9 pm
- 12/5: Fern Alley Music Series, Lower Polk Holiday Market at Cathedral Hill at 12 pm
- 12/5: 2026 Holiday Boutique and Artisan Craft Fair, Parkside at the United Irish Cultural Center from 12 pm to 5 pm
- 12/6: Castro Art Mart, Market & Noe Streets 2 pm to 8 pm
- 12/11: Fillmore After Dark
- 12/12: SECC Indoor Family Movie Club Presents The Polar Express from 12 pm to 4 pm at the Southeast Community Center
- 12/12 & 12/13: Vibe Artisan Markets at Pier 27
- TBD: Tree Lighting with Santa at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Nob Hill
- TBD: Civic Center Tree Lighting from 4 pm to 7 pm
- TBD: Pier 39 Tree Lighting from 5 pm to 9 pm
- TBD: Let's Glow Countdown Party outside the Ferry Building, 6 pm to 10 pm
- TBD: Let's Glow Holiday Projection Festival in downtown SF from 5:30 pm to 10 pm
- TBD: Rainbow World Tree of Hope Lighting at Grace Cathedral in Nob Hill
- TBD: Parol Lantern Festival & Parade at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in SOMA
- TBD: Bill Graham Menorah Lighting in Union Square
- TBD: Winter Walk in Union Square
>> Check out my complete list of December events in SF
January 2027 Free Events in San Francisco
The sea lions near Pier 39, where the city celebrates the anniversary of their 1989 arrival each January.Polar Plunge at Ocean Beach
This fun, local tradition takes place each January 1 to start off the new year with a freezing plunge into the Pacific Ocean.
You'll find a lively crowd of friends and neighbors of the Sunset District whooping and hollering as they dash into the cold waves. Just make sure to bring some warm clothes!
Location: Ocean Beach at Taraval Street (Outer Sunset District)
Date: 1/1
Martin Luther King Jr. Festival and Parade
Every year on the MLK holiday, you will find a large festival and parade that celebrates the life and message of civil rights activist Martin Luther King, Jr.
The festival includes everything from film screenings to health and wellness booths.
The large parade starts just south of Oracle Park and commemorates the famous Selma-to-Montgomery, Alabama march.
Location: Through SOMA to Yerba Buena Gardens
2027 Date: TBD
>> Get more details, including a full schedule of events
More Free Events in San Francisco January 2027
February 2027 Free Events in San Francisco
Chinese New Year Festivities & Parade
The Chinese New Year Festival and Parade is based on the lunar calendar, so the date changes each year, but it's usually celebrated in February.
You will find a full month of activities. The highlight each year is the parade, which draws a crowd of a couple of hundred thousand people.
Location: Chinatown
2027 Dates: TBD
>> Details for this year's festival and parade
Valentine's Day Pillow Fight
Every Valentine's Day, you will find a huge pillow fight at the Embarcadero Plaza.
Everyone is invited. Bring your own pillow. It starts when the clock strikes 6 pm!
Location: Embarcadero Plaza near the Ferry Building
Date: TBD
>> Visit my Valentine's page for more details
More Free SF Events in February 2027
- 2/21: Folsom Street's Miracle Mile Walking Tour, 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm, reserve a spot
- Chinatown Lunar New Year Block Party, 5 pm to 9 pm, TBD
- Downtown First Thursdays, on 2nd Between Minna and Natoma, 5 pm to 10 pm, TBD
- Ferry Building Projection Show, Super Bowl History Projection Show, 6 pm to 11 pm, TBD
- Hearts in San Francisco, on display at the Ferry Building, TBD
- F1 Red Bull Race Car Street Show, along the Marina Waterfront, TBD
- Free Museum Admission Days, various days, find a full schedule here
- Second Saturday in Union Square, celebrate cultural traditions that represent San Francisco, 11 am to 2 pm, TBD
>> Visit the February events calendar for even more fun activities in SF
March 2027
One of SF's cable cars decked out in green to celebrate Saint Patrick's Day at the annual parade and festival.Giants Fan Fest
In February, the SF Giants host a large, free event for their loyal fans.
At FanFest, you get the chance to see their World Championship trophies, get autographs from the players, and pick up single-game tickets for the upcoming year.
Location: Oracle Park in SOMA
2027 Date: TBD
Saint Patrick's Day Parade & Festival
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day at the annual festival and parade. The parade starts around 2nd and Market and ends just north of City Hall.
The event features live music and other fun activities. Don't forget to wear green!
Location: Downtown SF
2027 Date: TBD
>> Details about St. Patrick's Day in SF
Easter Sunrise Service
One of the biggest outdoor services is held on Easter morning on top of Mt. Davidson at the 103-foot-tall cross.
This celebration draws thousands of worshipers. The service begins at 6:30 am.
Location: Mt. Davidson near Forest Hill (south of Twin Peaks)
2027 Date: TBD
>> Visit my Easter page for more details
Easter Egg Hunt and Hunky Jesus
Join the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence (SF's favorite drag nuns) for their annual Easter celebration.
It starts with a tame, kid-friendly Easter egg hunt. It then turns into an adult-themed event with fun activities all afternoon long.
Location: Dolores Park in the Mission District
2027 Date: TBD
More Free SF Events in March 2027
- Downtown First Thursdays, TBD, free with RSVP
- 3/21: Folsom Street's Miracle Mile Walking Tour, 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm, reserve a spot
- Second Saturday in Union Square, celebrate cultural traditions that represent San Francisco, 11 am to 2 pm, TBD
- Golden Gate Park Bandshell Concerts start March 1 and run several times a week, every week through the fall
- Castro Night Market, Friday, March 20, from 5 pm to 9 pm
- Free Museum Admission Days, various days throughout the month, find a full calendar here
April 2027: Free San Francisco Events
Cherry Blossom Festival
This colorful Japanese cultural event is always held over two weekends in April to mark the beginning of spring as the beautiful pink cherry blossoms come alive.
You can watch live performances, learn more about the Japanese traditions, and enjoy the parade on the final day.
Location: Japantown
2027 Dates: TBD
>> See pictures and find more details about the Cherry Blossom Festival
More SF Free Events in April 2027
- Free Museum Days around San Francisco, find full calendar
- TBD: Downtown First Thursdays, 5 pm to 10 pm, 90 Natoma Street
- TBD: Town Square Fair at Crane Cover Park, 10 am to 7 pm
- TBD: Easter Egg Hunt at Fort Mason, 11 am to 11:30 am
- TBD: Sana G Easter Egg Hunt and Post-Hunt Celebration at Thrive City, 9 am, register in advance
- TBD: History Talk with Author Chris Pollock, Remnants of San Francisco, Eureka Valley/Harvey Milk Branch Library, 6 pm to 7 pm
- TBD: Film: "A Quiet Passion" at the SF Public Library, 12 pm to 2:30 pm
- TBD: San Francisco Unity Vendor Fair, Golden Gate Park, 9 am to 7 pm
- TBD: Stanford Football, Spring Practice at Kezar Stadium from 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm, reserve your spot
- TBD: Open Studios at 1890 Bryant Street, 12 pm to 6 pm
- TBD: Free Film - The Man Who Cheated Himself at Live Worms Gallery at 1345 Grant Avenue, 7 pm
- TBD: Speaker Series at the Clift, Making History Fun Again with John Martini, 6 pm
- TBD: Fort Mason Night Market, outdoor market from 5 pm to 10 pm
- TBD: Earth Day Festival & Green Business Expo at the Yerba Buena Gardens, 12 pm to 3 pm
- TBD: BAYCS Earth Day Festival, Mission Dolores Park, 12 pm to 3 pm
- TBD: Bernal Heights Earth Day, Bernal Heights Branch Library, 11 am to 3 pm
- TBD: Bay Area Dance Week all over the SF Bay Area
- TBD: Shipyard Open Studios, Spring 2026, 11 am to 6 pm, Hunters Point Shipyard
- TBD: EcoCenter's 16th Anniversary, 32 Jennings, 10 am to 1 pm, free games, workshops, and other activities
- TBD: Pickin' on the Polk, bluegrass games and good vibes at 2100 Polk, 12 pm to 6 pm
- Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays: Live Concerts at the Golden Gate Bandshell in Golden Gate Park
- TBD: Opening Day on the Bay Boat Parade from Crissy Field to Fort Mason, starts at Noon with the blessing of the fleet at 10:30 am
>> Visit the April calendar for additional events this month
May 2027 Free Events in San Francisco
- TBD: TLGBQ+ Spring Career Fair at the SF LGBT Center, 11 am to 3 pm
- TBD: Kodomo No Hi (Children's Day) in Japantown from 11 am to 4 pm
- TBD: Peru-USA Bicentennial Festival, Presidio Tunnel Tops East Meadow, 11 am to 4 pm
- TBD: Mission Architectural Tour & "Pretty City" Walkthrough, Creativity Explored, 11 am to 12:30 pm
- TBD: Castro Art Mart, Market & Noe Streets 2 pm to 8 pm
June 2027
Juneteenth Celebration
Date: TBD
Each summer, California's largest Juneteenth celebration is held in SF's historic Fillmore District. It's a celebration of the abolition of slavery.
You'll find 8 blocks of live performances, a kids zone, fashion shows, carnival rides and games, great food, and more.
Location: Fillmore Street between Fulton and Geary
North Beach Festival
Dates: TBD
Head over to our beloved, historic Italian neighborhood to enjoy live music, entertainment, and other fun activities at this free, annual North Beach Festival.
This two-day-long event is usually held the second weekend in June.
Location: Grant and Columbus Avenue in the heart of North Beach
Pride Parade and Festival
Dates: TBD
The last weekend in June, you will find one of the most colorful and lively events all year long, celebrating our diverse LGBTQ community.
It's a two-day event with the large parade held on Sunday morning.
Location: Market Street to Civic Center
More Free Events in June 2027
- TBD: Downtown First Thursdays, 5 pm to 10 pm, 90 Natoma Street
- TBD: Union Street Fair in the Marina District
- TBD: Festa Italiana in North Beach at Stockton and Filbert Streets
- TBD: San Francisco Bluegrass & Old Time Festival at Salesforce Park from 11:15 am to 6 pm
- TBD: Play on the Bay in Fisherman's Wharf from 12 pm to 4 pm
- TBD: Castro Art Mart, Market & Noe Streets 2 pm to 8 pm
- TBD: Juneteenth on the Waterfront at the Ferry Plaza from 11 am to 4 pm
- TBD: Valencia Live! in the Mission between 16th and 19th
- TBD: Chinatown Night Market, Grant Avenue from California to Pacific, 5 pm to 9 pm
- TBD: The Princess Bride, Sundown Cinema at Dolores Park
- TBD: Northern California Soy and Tofu Festival in Japantown
- TBD: West Coast Craft Fair at Fort Mason
- TBD: Live on Larkin: Pride Celebration on Larkin & Eddy Streets from 12 pm to 5 pm
- TBD: Donut Day by the Bay, free live music with donuts and coffee for sale from select vendors at Maritime National Historic Park
- TBD: Sunday Streets in the Tenderloin
- TBD: Stern Grove Free Concerts every Sunday at 2 pm, find details
- TBD: Speaker Series at the Clift, Shawn Sprockett - Unthinkable Vice, 6 pm
- TBD: Native Contemporary Arts Festival at YBGFestival from 12 pm to 3:30 pm
- TBD: Dragon Boat Festival - Races on the Water at Lake Merced
- TBD: Juneteenth Bayview Father's Day Festival at 903 Gilman Avenue from 12 pm to 6 pm
- TBD: Family Carnival at 100 Whitney Young Circle from 12 pm to 3 pm
- Free Museum Days around San Francisco, find full calendar
- Several Performances a Week: Cultural Performances at the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival in SOMA
- Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays: Live Concerts at the Golden Gate Bandshell in Golden Gate Park
July 2027 Free Events in San Francisco
The Fillmore Street Jazz Festival is a popular live music event in the Pacific Heights District every July.Fillmore Jazz Festival
Dates: TBD
This is one of the largest free jazz festivals on the West Coast.
Every year, it's the first weekend in July and features live performances on various stages for two straight days.
Location: Several venues along Fillmore from Jackson to Eddy
>> Find out more about the Fillmore Jazz Festival
Fourth of July Fireworks
Date: 7/4
Every July, one of the largest free events in San Francisco is the Independence Day fireworks display over the bay.
The fireworks usually start around 9:30 pm and last for around 30 minutes.
Location: Along the Fisherman's Wharf waterfront near Pier 39 and off the Golden Gate Bridge (2026 only!)
>> Discover my insider's tips about viewing fireworks on 4th of July
Fourth of July Activities at Pier 39
Date: 7/4
For the hours leading up to the 4th of July fireworks, you will find live bands performing at the Pier 39 entrance.
It's a fun way to spend your time as you wait for the after-dark show to start.
Location: Pier 39 in Fisherman's Wharf
Folk Festival
Date: TBD
This one-day free event offers live performances and workshops in Golden Gate Park for people who love folk music.
At the end of the day, you will also find a dance party where you can mingle with hundreds of other folk music lovers.
Location: Golden Gate Bandshell in Golden Gate Park
Hayes Valley Carnival
Date: TBD
This colorful annual event has been a neighborhood tradition for over 100 years.
The whole family will enjoy a Saturday afternoon full of fun circus performances, carnival games, face painting, and other kid-friendly activities.
Location: Hayes and Octavia Streets in Hayes Valley
Japan Day/Week
Dates: TBD
This annual event offers you the chance to see traditional Japanese performances and demonstrations, including taiko drumming, awa odori dance, karate, and more.
You can also participate in a workshop hosted by a master Japanese artist in origami or shodo calligraphy.
Location: Post Street in Japantown
More Free SF Events in July 2027
- TBD: Downtown First Thursdays, 5 pm to 10 pm, 90 Natoma Street
- TBD: SF Mime Troupe performance at Mission Dolores at 2 pm
- TBD: Stern Grove Free Concerts every Sunday at 2 pm, find details
- Free Museum Days around San Francisco, find full calendar
- TBD: Castro Art Mart, Market & Noe Streets 2 pm to 8 pm
- TBD: SF Mime Troupe performance at Yerba Buena Gardens at 2 pm
- TBD: Valencia Live! in the Mission between 17th and 20th
- TBD: Chinatown Night Market, Grant Avenue from California to Pacific, 5 pm to 9 pm
- TBD: SF Mime Troupe performance in the Panhandle at Fell and Lyon Streets at 2 pm
- TBD: Sunday Streets in the Mission
- TBD: Inside Out, Sundown Cinema at Presidio Civic War Parade Ground
- TBD: Bhangra & Beats Night Market at Yerba Buena Gardens, 4 pm to 9 pm
- TBD: SF Mime Troupe performance in the Precita Park at 3200 Folsom Street at 2 pm
- TBD: Up Your Alley in the SoMa district, 11 am to 6 pm
- All Month Long: Laborfest all around SF
- Several: Cultural Performances at the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival in SOMA
- Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays: Live Concerts at the Golden Gate Bandshell in Golden Gate Park
>> More fun events in San Francisco in July
August 2027: San Francisco Free Events
The Nihonmachi event is one of my favorites every August. It's in Japantown and has some great entertainment on its main stage all weekend long.Jerry Day
Date: TBD
Each August in honor of the late Jerry Garcia's birthday, people flock to the Jerry Garcia Amphitheater at McLaren Park for the annual "Jerry Day" celebration.
Whether you are a fan of the Grateful Dead or just want a little taste of San Francisco's free-loving passion for music, this is one of the top free events in August.
Location: McLaren Park in the Excelsior District
Nihonmachi Street Fair in Japantown
Dates: TBD
This annual event celebrates the diversity of the AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) cultures.
It offers two full days of food, entertainment, and fun.
Location: Japantown
More Free Events in August in San Francisco
- Free Museum Days around San Francisco, find full calendar
- TBD: Renegade Craft Fair at Fort Mason
- TBD: Stern Grove Free Concerts every Sunday at 2 pm, find details
- TBD: Castro Art Mart, Market & Noe Streets 2 pm to 8 pm
- TBD: Downtown First Thursdays, 5 pm to 10 pm, 90 Natoma Street
- TBD: Pistahan Parade and Festival at Yerba Buena Gardens
- TBD: Valencia Live! in the Mission between 17th and 20th
- TBD: Chinatown Night Market, Grant Avenue from California to Pacific, 5 pm to 9 pm
- TBD: Workshop: How to Write a Memoir, Short Story, and Essay at the SF Public Library on Larkin, 2 pm to 3:30 pm
- TBD: The Parent Trap, Sundown Cinema on the Marina Green
- TBD: Sunday Streets in the Bayview District
- TBD: Origami Palooza in Japantown
- Several: Cultural Performances at the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival in SOMA
- Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays: Live Concerts at the Golden Gate Bandshell in Golden Gate Park
>> Full list of San Francisco events in August
Hi, I’m Jill!
I’ve been sharing San Francisco travel advice since 2009 and have helped millions of people explore the city like a local. Whether you’re dreaming of sea lions, cable cars, or a great sourdough bread bowl, I’m here to help you plan an unforgettable trip with real tips from someone who actually lives here.
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