Downtown SF Buzz: Must-See Events and Experiences

A guide to upcoming downtown cultural events, street festivals, and other experiences that showcase the diverse cultural fabric of the city, perfect for exploring the cultural mosaic of San Francisco.

KALW Bay Area Votes 2024: Tuesdays at 6 PM

KALW is hosting a series of live events related to the 2024 Election every Tuesday at 6 PM from August to October at 220 Montgomery Street.

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Bricks at Embarcadero: Wednesdays - Saturdays

Come experience The Bricks at Embarcadero Plaza for a dynamic, interactive program hosted by Into The Streets with support from SF New Deal, SF Office of Economic & Workforce Development, The Mayor’s Office, and SF Rec & Park.

Enjoy a range of FREE public events from happy hours and dance parties to trivia nights and panel discussions, Wednesday to Saturday, offering something for everyone this summer and fall.

RSVP and check in on-site to access giveaways and discover specials from local businesses.

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Hey Girl! Bingo! with Shelix: Wednesday, August 28, 2024

It’s the much anticipated return of Hey Girl Bingo! with the incomparable Shelix. Ginger's is happy to announce the return of this iconic San Francisco Queer event with Bingo beginning at 7 PM.

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Glitter Box with MGM Grande and Landa Lakes: Thursday, August 29, 2024

Ginger’s is proud to announce the triumphant return of Glitter Box! Starring drag icons MGM Grande, Landa Lakes, Bobby Friday, Pollo Del Mar, and DJ Pup Kudo, this drag show is sure to be packed with sparkle, laughs, music and love.

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Haus of Cream Takeover: Friday, August 30, 2024

Welcome Haus of Cream to Ginger’s! Get ready for some edgy, sexy Drag Performances by Mother herself, Cream, and the family.

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SHIN IN HO DESTINY Soft Opening at 836M: Thursday, September 5, 2024

Yaloo's residency at 836M will culminate in a multimedia installation featuring experimental animated shorts about Shin In Ho, an 86-year-old Korean KPOP idol and pirate. As a recent transplant from Seoul, Yaloo explores the intersection of technology, culture, and nature in San Francisco, using the gallery as a dynamic project space. Her work reimagines historical narratives and cultural influences, addressing generational trauma and modern Korean history through the fictional character of Shin In Ho. The project highlights Korean immigration culture and Asian history in San Francisco, with Shin In Ho's journey unfolding on the city's shores.

RSVP for FREE Event

Downtown First Thursdays: Thursday, September 5, 2024

Downtown First Thursdays (DFT) is a FREE, all-ages monthly street party hosted in Downtown San Francisco taking place on every first Thursday of the month from 5-10 PM. Get ready for disco in the streets, DJs, live music, drag, fashion, street performances, and more!

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SIZZLE: Friday, September 6, 2024

Fridays are for the girls! First Fridays of the month this fall, come experience One Market Restaurant’s new Dinner Theater Series. SIZZLE brings the magic of live performance right to your table. Whether you’re into drama, comedy, or musical entertainment, One Market Restaurant's intimate setting is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable experience.

SIZZLE, San Francisco’s Only Dinner Drag Show, will be hosted by the renowned Bobby Friday.

The upcoming SIZZLE show on Friday, September 6th will benefit Castro Country Club.

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Bhangra & Beats Night Market: Friday, September 13, 2024

Experience the vibrant energy of the Bhangra and Beats Night Market in Downtown SF! Enjoy a night filled with live music, dancing, delicious street food, and unique local vendors, all celebrating the rich cultural diversity of San Francisco.

Come join the fun and feel the beat of the city!

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Oktoberfest on Front: Friday, September 20, 2024

Break out your lederhosen and dirndl! Celebrate Oktoberfest with the oldest Bavarian Beer Hall in SF at Oktoberfest on Front, hosted by the Downtown SF Partnership. Mouthwatering bratwurst, ice-cold beer, live music, and traditional Oktoberfest games await on Front Street in downtown San Francisco. 

Join Schroeder's, Harrington's Bar & Grill, and Royal Exchange for Oktoberfest on Front! Schroeder's will be a full Hofbrau, serving liter beers. There will be plenty of food and drinks, beer hall games, live music & DJs, axe throwing, and "pretzel" toss! Beer hall games, which include Stein Holding and Beer Chugging (NA beer), will be held indoors and outdoors.

RSVP for Oktoberfest

Check out our Events Calendar for more festive and fun things to do in downtown San Francisco this season.

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