Free Events in San Francisco: The Best Annual Festivals, Fairs, Parades, & More!

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. 

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December 2025 Free Events in SF

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

2025 Date: 12/13

>> Get more details about this quirky tradition

Let's Glow SF

If you love holiday light displays, then you're really in for a treat with these free animated light shows displaying 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

2025 Dates: 12/5 - 12/14

Lighted Boat Parade

Sit back and relax on our northern shoreline as you take in a festive show of lights that honors 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

2025 Date: Friday, December 12

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 Free Events in December 2025

• 12/3: Tree Lighting with Santa at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Nob Hill
• 12/3: Civic Center Tree Lighting from 4 pm to 7 pm
• 12/4: Pier 39 Tree Lighting from 5 pm to 9 pm
• 12/5: Let's Glow Countdown Party outside the Ferry Building, 6 pm to 10 pm
• 12/6 - 12/14: Let's Glow Holiday Projection Festival in downtown SF from 5:30 pm to 10 pm 
• 12/8: Rainbow World Tree of Hope Lighting at Grace Cathedral in Nob Hill
• 12/13: Parol Lantern Festival & Parade at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in SOMA
• 12/14 - 12/21: Bill Graham Menorah Lighting in Union Square

>> Check out my complete list of December events in SF

January 2026 Free Events in San Francisco

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

2026 Date: 1/19

>> Get more details, including a full schedule of events

More Free SF Events in January 2026

• TBD

>> Visit the January calendar for more information

February 2026 Free Events in San Francisco

Chinese New Year Festivities

The Chinese New Year Festival and Parade is based on the lunar calendar, so the date changes every year, but most of the time it's 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 hundred thousand people.

Location: Chinatown

2026 Dates: 2/7 - 3/7

NOTE: In 2026, festivities begin in February, but the much-anticipated parade is not until March this year.

>> Details for this year's festival and parade

SF Giants FanFest

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

Note: Depending on the year, FanFest may take place in February or March.

>> Visit my SF Giants page for more details

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: 2/14

>> Visit my Valentine's page for more details

More Free SF Events in February 2026

• TBD

>> Visit the February events calendar for even more fun activities in SF

March 2026 Free Events in San Francisco

Chinese New Year Festivities & Parade

The Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco is one of the largest and most spectacular Lunar New Year celebrations outside of Asia.

Come watch vibrant lion and dragon dances, glowing lanterns, elaborate floats, firecrackers, acrobats, marching bands, and more.

But come early, as this popular free event gets very crowded!

Location: Chinatown

2026 Date: 2/7 - 3/7 (Parade on 3/7) 

St. Patrick's Day Festival and Parade

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

2026 Date: 3/14

>> Details about St. Patrick's Day in SF

Tulipmania

Enjoy thousands of colorful tulips at the annual Tulipmania event. Every year, Pier 39 decorates the area with tulips of yellow, orange, red, and other brilliant colors, which are on display for about two weeks.

In addition to the lovely flowers, they also offer free walking tours each morning at 10 am, in which your guide will teach you all about these colorful gems.

Location: Pier 39 in Fisherman's Wharf

2026 Date: TBD

>> Visit the Pier 39 page for more info

More Free SF Events in March 2026

• TBD

>> Discover my full list of March events in San Francisco

April 2026 Free Events in San Francisco

Easter Sunrise Service at Mt. Davidson

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)

2026 Date: 4/5

>> Visit my Easter page for more details

Easter Egg Hunt + Hunky Jesus Contest

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

2026 Date: 4/5

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

2026 Dates: April 11-12, 18-19

>> See pictures and find more details about the Cherry Blossom Festival

More Free SF Events in April 2026

• 4/5: Easter Egg Hunt at Fort Mason
• 4/24 - 5/3: Bay Area Dance Week all over the SF Bay Area
• Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays: Live Concerts at the Golden Gate Bandshell in Golden Gate Park
• TBD: Cesar Chavez Holiday and Parade in the Mission District
• Date TBD: Opening Day on the Bay Boat Parade along the Fisherman's Wharf waterfront

>> Visit the April calendar for additional events this month

May 2026 Free Events in San Francisco

Carnaval Festival and Parade

Every year, SF kicks off summer with a celebration of the arts and traditions of Latin American and Caribbean cultures.

Carnaval is a two-day event with live music, dancing, and tasty food. The large parade is on the Sunday morning of Memorial Day Weekend.

Location: Mission District

2026 Dates: 5/23 - 5/24

>> Discover more details about this popular festival

Bay to Breakers

While it does cost to enter the race, watching from the sidelines is free. This isn't your typical road race, but rather a unique and colorful San Francisco experience you cannot miss!

It's a crazy and energetic 12K course that runs across SF from the Embarcadero to Ocean Beach. The participants run in costume, some on their own and some in teams. 

Location: Popular viewing spots are at the Start (Embarcadero), the Hayes Street Hill in Alamo Square, the Panhandle near Golden Gate Park, and the Finish near Ocean Beach

2026 Date: 5/17

>> More details about this wacky annual race

Memorial Day Ceremony at the National Cemetery

This annual ceremony honors those who have died fighting for our country. It includes a small parade, speeches from local politicians, and a 21-gun salute.

It starts at 10:30 am at the gates to the National Cemetery.

Location: National Cemetery in the Presidio

2026 Date: 5/25

>> More about the Memorial Day holiday in San Francisco

More Free SF Events in May 2026

• TBD: Taiwanese American Cultural Festival in Union Square
• TBD: Kodomo No Hi (Children's Day) in Japantown
• 2nd Friday: BeChinatown Night Market on Grant
• 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

>> Check out even more SF events in May

Free June 2026 Events in San Francisco

Juneteenth Festival / Freedom Celebration

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

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

>> Get more details about the North Beach Festival

Pride Parade & Festival

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

>> Discover more about the annual Pride event

Folk Festival

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

Japan Day/Week

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 June 2026

• TBD: West Coast Craft Fair at Fort Mason 
  
• TBD: Northern California Soy and Tofu Festival in Japantown
• TBD: Union Street Fair in the Marina District
• TBD: Sunday Streets in TBD Neighborhood
• 2nd Friday: BeChinatown Night Market on Grant
• TBD: Stern Grove Concert Series in the Outer Sunset
• 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

>> Additional things to do in San Francisco in June

July 2026 Free Events in San Francisco

Fillmore Jazz Festival

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

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 Aquatic Park and Pier 39

>> Discover my insider's tips about viewing fireworks on 4th of July

Fourth of July Activities at Pier 39

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

>> More details here

Hayes Valley Carnival

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

More Free SF Events in July 2026

• All Month Long: Laborfest all around SF
• TBD: Renegade Craft Fair at Fort Mason
• TBD: SF Mime Troupe Performances at Dolores Park & Yerba Buena Gardens
• TBD: Sunday Streets in TBD Neighborhood
• 2nd Friday: BeChinatown Night Market on Grant
• TBD: Stern Grove Concert Series in the Outer Sunset
• 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 2026 Free Events in San Francisco

Hungry Ghost Festival

By Chinese tradition, the hungriest ghosts come to the realm of the living on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month each year, and the rituals performed seek to calm and distract these restless spirits.

That's when the Chinese Culture Center in SF Chinatown hosts their largest free, family-friendly annual event.

This one-day festival in August includes a parade, art, performances, food, and other offerings.

Location: Chinatown

Jerry Day

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 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

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

>> Get details on this year's event

Sea Music Festival

Head over to the Maritime National Historical Park for a Saturday dedicated to celebrating sea music traditions from around the world. The free event includes live music and dance performances on multiple stages.

Embrace the spirit of the sea as you watch on-the-water jousting, a boat parade, and races.

Locations: Several throughout Fisherman's Wharf, including Aquatic Park and Ghirardelli Square

More Free SF Events in August 2026

• TBD: Pistahan Parade and Festival at Yerba Buena Gardens
• TBD: SF Mime Troupe Performances at Dolores Park & Yerba Buena Gardens
• TBD: Sunday Streets in TBD Neighborhood
• 2nd Friday: BeChinatown Night Market on Grant
• TBD: Stern Grove Concert Series in the Outer Sunset
• 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

September 2026 Free Events in San Francisco

African Arts Festival

Spend a Saturday afternoon at this free family-friendly celebration of live music and dance.

Attend drum lessons, face painting for kids, and performances by Bay Area groups representing the diverse regions of Africa and the African Diaspora.

There is also African food and goods for sale, including clothing, including handmade beads and accessories.

Location: Yerba Buena Gardens in SOMA

Chinatown Autumn Moon Festival

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

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

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

German Day

Come out to enjoy live German music on the historic Bandshell stage, the Biergarten serving beer and wine, German food (including sausages, pastries, and pretzels), a children’s activities area, and more.

Location: Music Concourse in Golden Gate Park

Haight Street Fair

Head over to the famed Haight-Ashbury District for their 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

>> More details on the free annual Haight Street Fair

Opera in the Park

Each year, the SF Opera kicks off their 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

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

• TBD: Cambodia Day in Union Square
• TBD: Origami Palooza in Japantown
• TBD: Chuseok Festival in the Presidio
• TBD: Harvest Festival in the Outer Sunset District
• TBD: Excelsior Arts & Music Festival at McLaren Park
• TBD: Cole Valley Fair at Cole Street and Parnassus Ave
• TBD: SF Mime Troupe Performances at Dolores Park & Yerba Buena Gardens
• TBD: Sunday Streets in TBD Neighborhood
• 2nd Friday: BeChinatown Night Market on Grant
• 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

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival

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

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

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

>> More information on the Castro Street Fair

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

Italian Heritage Parade

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

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

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

• TBD: Potrero Hill Festival on 20th Street between Missouri and Wisconsin
• TBD: Fiesta on the Hill in Bernal Heights
• TBD: Open Studios around SF
• TBD: Noe Valley Art Festival on 24th Street between Sanchez and Vicksburg
• TBD: Old Car Picnic at Golden Gate Park's Historic Speedway Meadow
• TBD: Bearrison Street Fair at 11th and Harrison in SOMA
• TBD: Sunday Streets in TBD Neighborhood
• 2nd Friday: BeChinatown Night Market on Grant
• 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)

The Day of the Dead is a traditional Mesoamerican holiday honoring the cycle of life and those who have died.

This event in SF includes a Festival of Alters from the late afternoon until late in the evening. It also includes a procession that circles around the SF Mission District until around midnight. 

Location: Garfield Park in the Mission District

Discovery Day

Discovery Day is a free, one-day, family-friendly event that is part of the larger Bay Area Science Festival. 

It includes more than 150 interactive displays and demonstrations, from robots to geeky games and science experiments.

Location: UCSF Mission Bay campus

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 partake 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

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

• TBD: Renegade Craft Fair at Fort Mason
• TBD: West Coast Craft Fair at Fort Mason

>> Discover a full list of November happenings in San Francisco

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