Best Bay Area Events 7/15-8/4

Unstaged! Live Music, Live Art Making, Live Community.

The Unstaged outdoor art party is back every 3rd Thursday in 2025!  UNSTAGED is a FREE, interactive arts, music, and community experience for absolutely everyone. On July 17th, tap into creativity and explore visual arts with Market Street Arts in Mid-Market’s Entertainment Zone. Performing & Painting artists: Ariel Rivera, Erik Barrios-Recendez, Evie Harra, Shrey Purohit, Wally Corona, Bea Byrne,  NehaXStitch, Ambika Jain, OBSIDIENNE OBSURD, Shovelman, Suki Berry, & The Genie. RSVP here.

Magic Dance
 by Vanessa Gil, Arts & Events Editor

Thank you to the Violent Femmes for such an amazing concert and getting me to dance like no one’s watching. That was some of the most fun I’ve had at a show in ages. I’m glad I got to experience it with one of my childhood besties. Next week, I get to take his wife (my other childhood bestie) to see the Pod Meets World podcast live! I’m so grateful for the opportunities to share these nostalgic reprises with my lifelongs. Here’s some great ways to make more memories with loved ones for the week of 7/15 and beyond!

Our Merch

25% off the SF Beer Passport!

Get 25% off the SF Beer Passport when you use the code “BAS25”! This Beer Passport is amazing; you get28 two-for-one beer coupons at 28 awesome bars. It honestly doesn’t get much better than that. Get your passport right here.

Our Partners’ Events

Father John Misty & Lucinda Williams at the Greek!
7/26 | Greek Theatre | 2001 Gayley Rd, Berkeley | 5:30 p.m. Doors | $78.15

Father John Misty is coming to Berkeley at the Greek Theatre on Saturday, July 26 with special guests Lucinda Williams and Hamilton Leithauser. Last chance for tickets!

Celebrating The Roots of Pasifika
7/24 | The Commons at KQED | 2601 Mariposa St, SF | 7 p.m. | $18.67 

Join us for an unforgettable celebration of Pacific Islander culture, as KQED teams up with Pacific Islands Together to spotlight the vibrant influence of Pacific Islanders in the Bay Area! Dive into an evening of lively dance, enriching conversations and incredible stories that celebrate the heart and soul of these communities. Don’t miss out — come be part of this dynamic event and experience the power of Pacific Islander culture like never before. Get your tickets here.

Hubba Hubba Revue: Wild West Burlesque!
7/20 | DNA Lounge | 375 11th St, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $25-$35

Saddle-Up, desperados! San Francisco’s world-famous burlesque & variety show presents a rootin’ tootin’, high-falutin”, sharp-shootin’ congregation of trick-ridin’ cowboys & cowgirls, featuring the spectacular skills of our beautiful, bendy friends from DAM Circus! Get your tickets today!

Pod Meets World Live: The Kids (Still) Wanna Jump! Tour
7/25 | Palace of Fine Arts | 3301 Lyon St, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $48-$219.42

We’re sending you to 1993 when TGIF reigned supreme and “Boy Meets World” first premiered. Danielle, Will and Rider are going back to school as they rewatch every episode of the iconic series, sharing memories, behind the scenes moments, and all the “Boy Meets World” stories a fan could ever want. Relive your first crush, first kiss, favorite moments and all the life lessons with Topanga, Eric, and Shawn. Get your tickets here!

This Week’s Events 7/15-7/21

Tuesday 7/15

Waiting for Britney Spears Book Reading & Discussion
7/15 | Book Passage San Francisco | 1 Ferry Building, SF | 5:30 p.m. | Free

Come hear Jeff Weiss talk about his new book Waiting for Britney Spears in which is a gonzo, nostalgic, and “allegedly true” recounting of his years as a tabloid spy in the lurid underbelly of Los Angeles. He’ll be in conversation with Zack Ruskin & Emma Silvers. 

Healing Through Self Expression: Networking Mixer & Panel Discussion
7/15 | Arcana | 2512 Mission St, SF | 6 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Join us for the second installment of Healing Through Self-Expression – a free, in-person networking event and digital art show celebrating BIPOC and Queer creativity, hosted by Realest Exposure in partnership with COVEN.art and Arts.Co.Lab. This evening invites artists, creatives, and visionaries to connect through artist talks, panel discussions, projected digital art, and meaningful conversations centered on community, care, and self-expression. Enjoy free wine, light refreshments, a plant propagation station, and opportunities to build lasting collaborations.

Rakim
7/15-7/16 | Yoshi’s Oakland | 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland | 7 p.m. Doors | $69-$125

In the history of the Hip-Hop, few artists have had as great an impact on the development and progression of the art forms lyrical style as Rakim Allah. Universally referenced as one of the Masters of the Microphone and an influence and inspiration to his peers and followers alike, Rakim first exploded onto the scene with the release of iconic Eric B. is President in 1986 with longtime collaborator Eric B. The single marked a turning point in the Rap world – raising the bar for future emcees and revolutionizing the way rhymes are delivered to this day. No serious discussion of the music’s greatest performers is held without a deferential accounting of his achievements, and no serious rap artist grips a microphone without channeling some of his legend. Rakim’s intricately intellectual lyrics draw their force from his worldly experience, inner faith and progressive contemplation; his liquid and seemingly effortless delivery – often imitated but still unrivaled – from a fire fueled by a deep understanding of not just Hip-Hop, but also the Jazz and R&B influences that have surrounded his family since his youth. 

The 4411
7/15 | Bottom of the Hill | 1233 17th St, SF | 8 p.m. | $16-$20, All ages

The 4411, an Austin TX based indie folk band comprised of two lifelong best friends Tomas Gerlach (Drummer) Cogan McBride (Singer). Shortly after moving in together while in college the duo wrote and released “As You Please” which quickly inspired the rest of their debut EP We Killed the Sun that came out on June 28th. 

The Coronas
7/15 | Cornerstone | 2367 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley | 8 p.m. | $33.43-$40.12, All ages

Today The Coronas celebrate the rare feat of four number ones in a row, with their eighth studio album, Thoughts & Observations, soaring to the top of the Irish album charts one week after its release. Although technically a three-piece, with Danny O’Reilly on vocals, piano and guitar, Graham Knox on bass and Conor Egan on drums, the band embraced the talents of their touring supergroup on this album with Lar Kaye (All Tvvins) on guitar, Cian MacSweeney (True Tides) on saxophone and Roisin O on backing vocals. Produced by Grammy award-winning, long-time collaborator, George Murphy (Mumford and Sons, The Specials, Ellie Goulding) Thoughts & Observations is at times anthemic, at times delicate, but always authentic and full of emotion.

Wednesday 7/16

Movie Music of Hans Zimmer
7/16-7/18 | Davies Symphony Hall & Frost Amphitheater | 201 Van Ness Ave, SF & 351 Lasuen Mall, Stanford | 7:30 p.m. | $30-$199

Sarah Hicks conducts an evening of unforgettable movie music from legendary film composer Hans Zimmer, featuring selections from the scores to The Lion King, The Pirates of the Caribbean, Batman: The Dark Knight, Gladiator, and more. (Please note: this concert does not contain film clips.)

Frankie and the Witch Fingers
7/16 | The Chapel | 777 Valencia St, SF | 8 p.m. | $33.14, All ages

Los Angeles psych-punk shapeshifters Frankie and the Witch Fingers have spent the last decade mutating their sound into bold, electrifying new forms. Their latest release, Trash Classic (via Greenway Records and The Reverberation Appreciation Society), plunges into a sewer-slick fusion of proto-punk venom, fractured new wave, and industrial grime. Brimming with wiry synths, angular melodies, and grooves that squirm and bite, it’s all delivered with a sly, playful wink. Fueled by relentless global touring and a fierce DIY ethos, the band has shared stages with OFF!, Ty Segall, Oh Sees, Cheap Trick, and ZZ Top, cementing their place as one of the most unforgettable live acts around. Frankie and the Witch Fingers continue to morph, dragging listeners into whatever warped direction their experimental journey takes next.

Free Art Workshop: Sculpting Memories
7/16 | Yerba Buena Center for the Arts | 701 Mission St, SF | 2 p.m. | Free w/ Registration

Create art inspired by programs at YBCA in this series of drop-in art workshops for participants of all ages. Each workshop will explore different practices and art-making methods. Materials will be provided, and participants will be able to take their artwork home as a souvenir. Memorialize someone you love who passed by creating a special sculpture in their honor–a vessel for treasured memories. This workshop is inspired by Malaya Tuyay’s public art What is Legacy Without Liberation, located at YBCA’s Wavy Wall on Third Street. The mural acts as an altar where people in the community are invited to share about their loved ones who have passed and their relationship to their grief.

Thursday 7/17

Blue Note Summer Sessions: Kehlani
7/17 | Meritage Resort & Spa | 850 Bordeaux Way, Napa | 5:30 p.m. Doors | $97.45+

Kehlani will open your eyes, open your mind, and open your heart. For as blunt as they may be about life, longing, lust, and love, their music occupies an elevated state above even the best high — yet accessible by simply listening. The Bay Area-born two-time GRAMMY Award-nominated multi-platinum songstress unlocks this place anytime they pick up a pen or grab a microphone.

Pete Escovedo: The California Art Tour Reception
7/17 | The Grand Gallery Oakland | 560 2nd St, Oakland | 4 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

His 90th Birthday, Kicks Off “Pete Escovedo: The California Art Tour” Unveiling His Paintings in Oakland, CA – Pete Escovedo, a globally celebrated musician and Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, is preparing to unveil a lesser-known side of his artistry through his California Art Tour, a remarkable traveling exhibition showcasing his vibrant and personal collection of paintings.

Spontaneous Hitchcock: An Improvised Thriller in the Style of the Master of Suspense!
7/17-7/20 & 7/24-7/27 | Lesher Center for the Arts | 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek | 8:15 p.m. | $27

Murder, madness, and mystery combine to weave a chilling tapestry of terror in Synergy Theater’s Spontaneous Hitchcock! Stuffed like a corpse with innocence accused, loyalty betrayed, sanity tested, and more twists and turns than a high-speed car chase in the dead of night on a mountain pass, this hysterical homage to Sir Alfred Hitchcock – completely improvised and all based on your suggestions – will keep you in stitches from the first creaking floorboard to the final shovel of dirt. So, fix Mother’s make up and bring her along to Spontaneous Hitchcock: An Improvised Thriller in the Style of the Master of Suspense!

Dark Satellite + Lady Starbeast + The Troubs
7/17 | Ivy Room | 860 San Pablo Ave, Albany | 8 p.m. | $15, 21+

Dark Satellite’s three members grew up playing different styles, coming together to form a one-of-a-kind band with a coalescence of riffs and song structures. Mixing various types of rock genres, blues, jazz and experimental indie progressions results in their own unique aesthetic and wall of sound. Come celebrate Ilana (Lady Starbeast’s) birthday!! Defying traditional genre and embodying idiosyncrasy, Oakland-based dark pop artists Ilana Magill, Marc Martell, and MJ Gurule join forces to form the project Lady Starbeast. Ilana is the songwriter and vocalist; Marc creates the instrumentation; and together they record and produce. Ilana combines sultry, powerful vocals with operatic background harmonies, dark, eerie and intricate melodies and a wild, irreverent spirit. Her lyrical content explores the introspective particularities of mental health, while using a broad lens to remark on the human condition. Marc’s dramatic electro-pop instrumentation gives the listener a glimpse into the inner workings of their minds and hearts, making for a raucous and haunting experience.

The Heat Will Kill Everything
7/17-7/19 | Brava Theater | 2781 24th St, SF | 7 p.m. | Pay what you can

The Heat Will Kill Everything is a powerful new one-person play that stands at the intersection of theater and fiction, weaving a deeply human story within a landscape scarred by climate change. At its heart is Leeden, a middle-aged Black professor of Black Studies whose life is shattered when his daughter, Asha, vanishes during a catastrophic climate event. As the police officially search for Asha, Leeden embarks on a solitary harrowing journey, navigating a world where the environment’s relentless fury mirrors his own internal tumult. Through visceral storytelling and poignant reflection, the play grapples with the intersections of race, masculinity, and the brutal reality of a world pushed to the brink. The Heat Will Kill Everything challenges audiences to examine the ways in which personal and environmental crises intertwine, leaving no one untouched.

Rooftop Radio: KEXP
7/17 | SFMOMA | 151 3rd St, SF | 6 p.m. | $30-$40, 21+

KEXP, the beloved listener-powered independent radio station born in Seattle and now also broadcasting from the Bay Area, has good vibes and music in store for you at this episode of Rooftop Radio. Take in a B2B (back-to-back) DJ set by Kelley Stoltz and Gabriel Lopez, hosts of Vinelands, KEXP’s San Francisco–based radio show highlighting Bay Area music. Then, enjoy a live performance by SPELLLING, the Oakland-based rising star of experimental pop who just released her new album, Portrait of My Heart, earlier this year.

Climate Book Club at KQED
7/17 | KQED Headquarters | 2601 Mariposa St, SF | 6:30 p.m. | $12.96

Climate action starts with talking about it, and the KQED Climate Book Club, led by journalist Danielle Venton, gives us something to talk about. You can read the book and join the conversation online in advance. This summer, we’ll be reading Adina Merenlender and Brendan Buhler’s Climate Stewardship: Taking Collective Action to Protect California. Bring some books you’re ready to give away at our book exchange, and grab one or two new ones to keep the conversation going! Refreshments included.

Friday 7/18

Mating Ritual
7/18 | Cafe du Nord | 2174 Market St, SF | 9 p.m. | $27.27, 21+

You’ve probably heard a song the Mating Ritual brothers have written, even if you don’t know it. After amassing more than 150 million streams between their various bands and solo projects, prolific siblings Ryan Ritual and Suede James are back together after a 4 year break with Shangri-blah, their sixth and decidedly most “rock” record to date. Trading in synths and drum machines for acoustics and pedal steel, Shangri-blah is an epic album that touches on all the band’s established sounds while adding a few more to the canon.

San Francisco Cocktail History Tour
7/18 | Transamerica Pyramid | 600 Montgomery St, SF | 2:30 p.m. | $55 

Learn about San Francisco’s cocktail history as we share stories, a short walk, and a sip. We’ll meet near the original city shoreline where gold miners and the liquor to supply them were unloaded from ships. We’ll talk about bars inside of boats, cocktail muddlers made of gold, and the opulent saloons of the late 1800s. We’ll walk to the site of SF’s first famous drink, the Pisco Punch, and learn about its suspected secret ingredient. In the original red light district, we’ll discuss the great earthquake and fire of 1906 that destroyed almost all of the city and copies of its most famous bartender’s cocktail book. We’ll discuss how Prohibition did and did not impact the quantity of alcohol consumed, though the quality may have suffered. We’ll walk the strip where the post-war boom brought sailors seeking sin, and talk about the birth of tiki and Trader Vic’s Mai Tai. We’ll end our tour in a stunning 1907 saloon that still serves some of the best drinks in town and share a small cocktail in celebration of our journey.

Culture RenAIssance: A Hip-Hop x A.I. Symposium
7/18 | The Midway | 900 Marin St, SF | 6 p.m. | $61.80, 18+

Step into the future of Hip-Hop at Culture RenAIssance, a first-of-its-kind symposium exploring the intersection of Hip-Hop and Artificial Intelligence. Presented by SF Hip-Hop, this thought-provoking evening will feature keynote speaker Rakim, one of the most influential voices in music history, as he shares insights on culture, creativity, and the future of music in the age of AI.

Fort Mason Night Market
7/18 | Fort Mason | 2 Marina Blvd, SF | 4 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP, All ages

This outdoor market transforms the historic FMCAC campus into a dynamic showcase of local artisans, cuisine, and entertainment. Running from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., this free public event combines the San Francisco Bay Area’s premier craft vendors with outstanding food offerings against a backdrop of stunning waterfront views.

Marmot King’s Game Night
7/18 | Manny’s | 3092 16th St, SF | 6 p.m. | $10.30, 21+

Join us for our monthly-ish board game night at Manny’s – Party games, Social games and Group games. Bring a game to teach and share! Hosted by board game enthusiast the Marmot King, Games Night is a fun analog way to spend your Friday night. The ticket includes one drink.


Saturday 7/19

Mosswood Meltdown 2025
7/19-7/20 | Mosswood Park | 3612 Webster St, Oakland | 12 p.m. | $65-$219

Oakland’s beloved festival Mosswood Meltdown is returning July 19th and 20th, 2025 to Mosswood Park. Acts include DEVO, Osees, Kreayshawn, and more, and of course, the festival would not be complete without the inimitable and esteemed John Waters, who celebrates his 11th year as host in 2025. This is a weekend not to be missed!

My Chemical Romance: Long Live The Black Parade
7/19 | Oracle Park | 24 Willie Mays Plaza, SF | 6 p.m. | $134+

My Chemical Romance will be performing their seminal 2006 album The Black Parade in its entirety, celebrating its 20th anniversary.

Toad The Wet Sprocket
7/19 | The UC Theatre | 2036 University Ave, Berkeley | 7 p.m. Doors | $70.50+

Toad the Wet Sprocket, the beloved alternative rock band from Santa Barbara, California, first captured audiences in the late 1980s with their heartfelt lyrics and melodic sound. Rising to prominence with albums like Fear (1991) and Dulcinea (1994), they became known for hits such as “Walk on the Ocean,” “All I Want,” and “Good Intentions.” Their ability to blend introspective songwriting with catchy, folk-influenced rock has cemented them as a lasting presence in the music world.

Trumer Brewery Summerfest 2025
7/19 | Trumer Taproom | 1404 Fourth St, Berkeley | 11 a.m. | $10.38+, 21+

Get ready for an unforgettable Summerfest at Trumer Brewery! Saturday, July 19th, we’re going all out with live sets by DJ D Sharp (Golden State Warriors’ official DJ) and Grand-O aka the Bay Area’s Snack Sensei, exclusive Trumer beers, mouthwatering bites, and custom swag screen-printed by our friends San Franpsycho. You don’t want to miss this!

Parks4All: Brewfest 2025
7/19 | Civil War Parade Ground, Presidio | Graham St, SF | 12 p.m. | $55.20+

Sip your way through a curated lineup of local breweries offering unlimited tastings—including gluten-free and non-alcoholic options. If you’re looking for a beer tasting San Francisco experience, this is it. It’s the perfect place for beer lovers to explore new flavors while soaking in the scenery. Bring a blanket, your favorite snacks, and your crew—furry friends welcome (on leashes, please!). Or treat yourself to bites from delicious Presidio food trucks and vendors at the Presidio Pop Up nearby. Unwind with performances by Combo Tezeta, The SoulShake and Sam Johnson Live, and enjoy outdoor activities that capture the laid-back energy of a perfect San Francisco summer day. Browse goods from local artisans and merchants offering handmade, eco-conscious products that reflect the community of the Bay Area. With nature walks, hands-on activities, and interactive experiences, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re 5 or 95. This is a family friendly beer event San Francisco.

SF Hip-Hop Festival 2025
7/19 | The Midway | 900 Marin St, SF | 1 p.m. | $43.26+

Join us for the first-ever SF Hip-Hop Festival, an all-day celebration of Hip-Hop culture, community, and creativity. Held across three stages at The Midway, the event features a powerful lineup of legendary and rising artists, live DJs, cultural conversations, art activations, food vendors, and streetwear. With performances by Tha Dogg Pound (30th Anniversary of Dogg Food), Digable Planets, Souls of Mischief, Mix Master Mike, and many more. Plus, local food and retail vendors, community organizations, and interactive programming throughout the day. Celebrate the legacy and future of Hip-Hop in the Bay Area and beyond. This is more than a concert—this is a cultural movement.

Caamp
7/19 | Greek Theatre | 2001 Gayley Rd, Berkeley | 6 p.m. Doors | $78.15

Acclaimed folk-rock band Caamp hits the road in 2025! The band recently released their brand new EP, Somewhere, their first collection of new music since 2022. The EP captures the band’s signature warmth and introspective storytelling while exploring themes of love, change, nostalgia, and letting go.

Blooms & Bubbles Bar Crawl
7/19 | The Poppy Lobby Bar at Hilton San Francisco Union Square | 333 O’Farrell St, SF | 6 p.m. | $19.01+, 21+

Union Square comes alive in full color as the neighborhood is transformed into a floral dreamscape for this annual celebration of beauty and nightlife. Streets, storefronts, and patios burst with vibrant flower installations, hanging blossoms, and garden-inspired décor that create an unforgettable, picture-perfect atmosphere. From glowing pink petals to lush greenery winding up light posts and entryways, the entire district becomes a walking bouquet. As you make your way through 5+ of Union Square’s most stylish bars, lounges, and restaurants, you’ll be treated to exclusive drink and food specials, bubbly cocktails, and floral-themed delights at every stop. Whether it’s sipping rosé under a canopy of blossoms or toasting with friends beside a flower-wall photo op, every moment is infused with charm and celebration.

Rhythms & Rhymes
7/19 | Telegraph Hill Books | 1501 Grant Ave, SF | 8 p.m. | $17.85+

Come join us for a night of music and good vibes at Telegraph Hill Books. Get ready to be immersed in a blend of rhythms that will soothe your soul and rhymes that will ignite your imagination. This event is perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of words and melodies. Don’t miss out on this unique experience!

Sunday 7/20

Puzzle Challenge
7/20 | 81st Avenue Library | 1021 81st Ave, Oakland | 2 p.m. | Free

Join us for the Summer Puzzle Challenge, a jigsaw puzzle series open to all ages and abilities! Whether you’re a seasoned puzzler or trying it for the first time, you are all welcome here. We’re excited to offer a variety of puzzles: for kids, people with dementia, and for those who like numerous pieces. Form teams or work solo as you listen to relaxing music and engage your mind. 

Maoli
7/20 | The Warfield | 982 Market St, SF | 8 p.m. | $61.38+

Maoli, referred to as Hawaii and Polynesia’s No. 1 independent commercial recording artist, has transcended borders with their extraordinary talent, capturing the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide. The band, which is fronted by Glenn Awong, formed in 2007 and has since performed across the U.S., New Zealand, Australia, and the South Pacific.

Mustard Service
7/20 | Rickshaw Stop | 155 Fell St, SF | 8 p.m. | $20-$25, All ages

Mustard Service is an indie rock band based in Miami, Florida. Self-described as “zest pop”, the band’s music draws influences from rock, surf, jazz, funk, and bossa nova, while also infusing Cuban, Uruguayan, Argentinian and Mexican flavors into their unique sound. The three-piece lineup features Marco Rivero Ochoa on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Leo Cattani on keyboard, and Adam Perez on drums. Their Latin heritage is deeply embedded in their sound, with many of their songs featuring Spanish lyrics and vibrant Latin rhythms. Produced and engineered by Chad Copelin, “Big Time” boasts a feel-good, sun-soaked vibe, with jangly guitars and vocals that channel the infectious energy of The Strokes. Its catchy, carefree melody is perfectly complemented by a prominent, bouncy bassline that gives the track an effortlessly cool, groove-driven charm.

Monday 7/21

M. Ward & The Undertakers Summer Tour 2025
7/21 | Bimbo’s 365 Club | 1025 Columbus Ave, SF | 8 p.m. | $46.36, 21+

M. Ward is an American singer-songwriter, Grammy nominated producer and guitarist whose solo work is a mixture of folk and blues-inspired Americana analog recordings. 

Trivia Night
7/21 | Saluhall SF | 945 Market St, SF | 6 p.m. | Free

Trivia masters, first-timers, and everyone in between – join us for Monday Night Trivia with Geeks Who Drink! Test your knowledge on every topic under the sun, whether you’re a pop culture specialist, a history buff, or an expert in something else entirely, you’ll have your time to shine.

Ben Kweller
7/21 | The Independent | 628 Divisadero St, SF | 8 p.m. | $32.42, 21+

BK is back and he’s not the same. Who could be after the heartbreak he’s endured since the sudden passing of his 16-year-old son. Instead of hiding away, the beloved indie-rocker is walking through the fire of grief with intention and purpose. This unimaginable journey has led him to his seventh album, Cover The Mirrors, and his current tour. Kweller has been an open book throughout his illustrious career. His songs hold a nostalgic quality that takes you to a time and a place, happy or sad. He’s also one of the rare few who can translate his recordings into captivating concerts that keep his fans coming back again and again. If you’ve never seen BK live before, the Cover The Mirrors Tour is sure to be his most heartfelt and joyous live show yet. This is a chance for old and new fans to come together and witness one of the great songwriters at his creative peak.

The Week of 7/22-7/28

Tuesday 7/22

Bruce Vilanch Book Signing + Interview
7/22 | OASIS | 298 11th St, SF | 7 p.m. | $29.68-$72.95

Bruce will be signing his latest book, “It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time: The Worst TV Shows in History and Other Things I Wrote.” In addition to writing many entertainment award shows, Bruce wrote many musical variety shows and specials some of which were the biggest bombs in television history. In this book, Bruce tells all. This event will benefit The Richmond/Ermet Aid Foundation.

Lady Gaga: The MAYHEM Ball
7/22, 7/24, & 7/26 | Chase Center | 1 Warriors Way, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $207.06+

MAYHEM marks a return to Gaga’s pop roots, reaffirming that she is a master of reinvention, crafting an album that is as bold and eclectic as it is deeply personal. A declaration of artistic freedom, it embraces the fractured pieces of oneself and how they come together to form something unexpected and beautiful. The album mirrors this concept with its diverse sonic palette and thematic layers, combining elements of chaos, defiance, and vulnerability into a cohesive artistic statement. Gaga describes this process as assembling a shattered mirror: “Even if you can’t put the pieces back together perfectly, you can create something memorable and whole in its own way.”

Charlotte Lawrence
7/22 | Cafe du Nord | 2174 Market St, SF | 8 p.m. | $29.33-$142.63

Regina Spektor is a Russian-born American singer, songwriter, pianist, and guitarist. Spektor performs using a broad vocal range, with a falsetto extension, but without any apparent break. She explores a variety of different and somewhat unorthodox vocal techniques, such as verses composed entirely of buzzing noises made with the lips and beatbox-style flourishes in the middle of ballads, and also makes use of such unusual musical techniques as using a drum stick to tap rhythms on the body of a chair. 

Tammytealove Who’s That?
7/22 | Yoshi’s Oakland | 510 Embarcadero W, Oakland | 7:30 p.m. Doors | $20-$30

Tammy E. Clarke (TammyTeaLove) is a comedian who was “Born in Brooklyn, raised in Los Angeles and Got her Game from The Bay”, now resides in Oakland. Her first break was on the spot with “Academy Award winning Actress” Mo’Nique at the San Jose Improv. She first stepped on stage in 2007 when her comedian friends pushed her on stage and said she should be a comedian. TammyTeaLove has been Awarded the NW Black comedy fest. “Funniest Comedian Award”  TammyTeaLove has performed at clubs such as Cobbs Comedy Club, Punchline SF & SAC, Comedy Château, The Comedy Store Hollywood, Sketchfest Sf 2019 & 2023 The Black Women In Comedy festival 2021-22 and many others, also Tammy is A two time Comedy Oakland “Champion.” on most nights and weekends Tammy is found on stage, Telling real life stories that everyone can relate too! Laughter is healing of the soul.

Poetic Tuesday
7/22 | Jessie Square, Yerba Buena Gardens | 760 Mission St, SF | 12:30 p.m. | Free

Sharing works that delight, provoke, inspire and rouse, the Poetic Tuesdays series turns lunchtime into an oasis of creative expression. Lighting up Jessie Square with a fabulously curated line-up of poets and musicians, Poetic Tuesdays offer a vivifying midday breather for neighborhood groups, students, office workers on break and out-of-towners looking for respite from The City’s hustle and bustle.

Wednesday 7/23

Kate Berlant Live
7/23 | Palace of Fine Arts | 3301 Lyon St, SF | 6 p.m. Doors | $56.25+

Kate Berlant is an Emmy nominated comedian, actress and writer. She recently concluded her fourth sold-out run of KATE, her one-woman off-Broadway play directed by Bo Burnham, to a rapturous response. Her comedy special Cinnamon in the Wind (directed by Bo Burnham) is now streaming on Hulu. In addition, her A24/Peacock sketch comedy special Would It Kill You to Laugh?, created with her collaborator John Early, was nominated for both a Critic’s Choice and Primetime Emmy award. 

Art Battle San Francisco
7/23 | Public Works | 161 Erie St, SF | 7 p.m. | $21-$26.26, 21+

Be a part of the electrifying energy as skilled artists engage in a high-speed showdown, flinging paint with every stroke. Cast your vote and crown the champion in three pulse-pounding rounds. And as the night unfolds, snag a one-of-a-kind masterpiece as every piece created goes up for auction. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of live art!

Raanan Hershberg
7/23-7/26 | Punch Line San Francisco | 444 Battery St, SF | 8 p.m. | $27.65-$42.50

Raanan Hershberg is a loud, neurotic Jew from Louisville, KY. He has performed his high-energy, joke-packed comedy on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, The Late, Late Show with James Corden, and Comedy Central. His latest special ‘Jokes from the Underground’ was just included in the New York Times ‘Best Comedy of 2022’, where critic Jason Zinoman called it the funniest YouTube Special of the year, and said  ‘his punchy and deliriously funny club comedy made me laugh after second and third viewings.’ His first special ‘Downhill Ever Since’ is almost at 200K views on YouTube. Raanan performs all over the world and is a regular at The Comedy Cellar.

Los Bitchos
7/23 | Great American Music Hall | 859 O’Farrell St, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $25-$30

Los Bitchos are made up of lead guitarist Serra, who carries both Australian and Turkish heritage, Uruguayan synth and keytar player Agustina Ruiz, Swedish bassist Josefine Jonsson, and British drummer Nic Crawshaw. Their live show has a contagious energy they’ve had no problem transmitting to the world: since the band officially arrived in 2019 with two sell-out 7″ singles, they marked themselves as one of London’s brightest bands to watch. 

Thursday 7/24

The Pancakes & Booze Art Show
7/24 | Public Works | 161 Erie St, SF | 7 p.m. | $20.24, 21+

Where else can you get free pancakes, live music, and some of the freshest art in the city? NOWHERE! The Pancakes & Booze Art Show brings together over 75 local artists and 500+ original works for a night that’s part gallery, part party, all vibe.

Dani Offline
7/24 | Great Lawn, Yerba Buena Gardens | Mission St. between 3rd & 4th St, SF | 12:30 p.m. | Free

Dani Offline is an alluring artist plugged directly into her bountiful muse. The Oakland-based singer, songwriter, and producer has honed a sensuous aesthetic, blending dreamy melodies, gently hypnotic grooves, and understated vocals. A music besotted child who absorbed sounds while bouncing between Europe and the U.S. with her family, Offline was steeped in jazz and hip hop from an early age, with a particular affinity for  Sarah Vaughan and Betty Carter. Fresh off of sold-out shows in SFJAZZ’s Joe Henderson Lab as part of Noise Pop, she’s carved out a singular niche in the Bay Area ecosystem with songs that sound like both murmured revelations and communal observations.

15th Anniversary of Mission Community Market
7/24 | Ferry Plaza | 1 Ferry Building, SF | 3 p.m. | Free

Celebrate 15 years of the Mission Community Market on Thursday, July 24! Stock up on summer produce and join us in thanking the local farmers, food makers, and neighbors (you!) who have made this market so special for the last 15 years. Pick up a free Mission Community Market anniversary tote bag and enter a raffle to win Foodwise market coins. Stop by the orange Foodwise Seasonal Spotlight Tent for free samples, recipes, and cooking tips, featuring peak-season tomatoes. Enjoy live music with Mark y los Tiburones (4-6pm) at the Little Mission Studio stage.

Friday 7/25

Streetlight Manifesto
7/25 | The Regency Ballroom | 1300 Van Ness Ave, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $51.30-$76.80

Seven guys, seven different musical backgrounds, seven different personalities, one band, one unique and unmistakable voice. Formed in New Jersey as an ad hoc group intended to put out one album and disappear, one thing led to another, and within a few months of their debut release, Everything Goes Numb, Streetlight Manifesto was officially a full-time touring band, traveling the world, spreading their infectious and energetic tunes to all who would listen. A high energy rock band with more horn players than traditional rock instruments, with influences from Latin, klezmer, folk, world, funk, jazz, and classical music all blending into one cohesive sound, the band has somehow come a long way from where they started while staying true to their DIY roots. Twenty years later, the guys are still at it, still performing live to sold-out shows filled with sweat-drenched fans, all dancing and singing along at the top of their lungs.

Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience
7/25 | Davies Symphony Hall | 201 Van Ness Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $79-$325

Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience takes audiences on a journey through the soul-stirring history of the Delta Blues, merging the raw emotion of blues music with the expressive depth of an orchestra. Featuring a live appearance and multimedia narration by Hollywood icon and Mississippi son, Morgan Freeman, and featuring performances by respected Delta Blues musicians from Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi, Symphonic Blues is an unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and storytelling.

Pete Escovedo & Family “90th Birthday Celebration”
7/25-7/27 | Yoshi’s Oakland | 510 Embarcadero W, Oakland | 7:30 p.m. | $49-$89

Legendary Bay Area percussionist Pete Escovedo will be celebrating his 90th birthday this year with his entire family at the place they call their “Musical Home”…Yoshi’s. The Escovedo family are the longest running artists that Yoshi’s has had the pleasure of booking since its conception. We at Yoshi’s are honored to have been chosen to host this monumental event, and we hope you will join us in celebrating this living legend for his 90th birthday concert.

Saturday 7/26

US Air Guitar National Finals
7/26 | The Independent | 628 Divisadero St, SF | 9 p.m. | $32.47, All ages

San Francisco will host the National Finals for the first time since 2008. Regional Air Guitar Champions from twenty cities across the United States will converge to battle it out in the Bay. The winner will be crowned the 2025 US Air Guitar Champion and will proceed to represent the United States at the Air Guitar World Championships in Finland. This is the Super Bowl of Air Guitar.

Alameda Rock & Roll Flea Market
7/26 | Faction Brewing | 2501 Monarch St, Alameda | 10 a.m. | $6.79, All ages

Little Steven’s Underground Garage, DJ Sid Presley, Faction Brewing, and Satay By The Bay SF invite you and the family to step into a vibrant and eclectic world where local food, craft beer, live music, and vintage collectors converge for a full day of entertainment.

BONG-O BINGO Gets Kinky
7/26 | Mission Cannabis Club | 2441 Mission St, SF | 6 p.m. | $15 plus purchase, 21+

We are celebrating the Up You Alley/Dore Alley street fair which is on Sunday, so arrive in leather or fetish gear and get an extra bingo board! Join your Mistress Thee Pristine Condition and Hot Leather Daddy Bear DJ Dank for a kinky night of drag cannabis bingo with special guest Andalay Andaley! Miss Veronica Guevara the Dominatrix will make sure you follow her orders at the door when you check in. Take those bingo cards and raffle tickets and like it! Manzanita Naturals will be serving mocktails so amazing they will make you slap and tickle yourself. Win cannabis prizes with every round! BONG-O BINGO is our favorite fetish, so come out and be part of the kinky fun in the glorious smoking lounge of the Mission Cannabis Club.

Dayshift Party
7/26 | Temple | 540 Howard St, SF | 5 p.m. | $25.30

Experience the Dayshift—a party designed for the 30+ crowd who crave the electric energy of a nightclub without the late-night exhaustion. Dance under disco balls, lose yourself in confetti showers and relive the best of the 80s, 90s, and 00s with top DJs spinning nonstop anthems. It’s the ultimate clubbing experience, but in the daylight—because great nights out don’t have to happen at night. Get your tickets today for the Dayshift Party in San Francisco!

Bingo Loco
7/26 | The Midway | 900 Marin St, SF | 4 p.m. | $35

We’ve flipped the traditional game of bingo on its head and turned it into a 3-hour long interactive stage show complete with dance-offs, rave rounds, lip sync battles, throwback anthems, confetti showers, and prizes ranging from international holidays, cars, air fryers, lawnmowers and so much more. Crazy prizes, rave rounds, dance offs, lip-sync battle, 90’s & 00’s tunes.

Sunday 7/27

Up Your Alley 2025
7/27 | Folsom St | 1286 Folsom St, SF | 11 a.m. | Free, 18+

Up Your Alley returns to the infamous streets of SOMA! Come get twisted with Steamworks, dance to our hot DJs and with our hotter gogos, watch kink and bondage demos that will blow your mind, cruise the artisan goods at our vendors, and get dirty at San Francisco’s notorious leather and kink block party.

PENTHOUSE SUNSET ROOFTOP PARTY
7/27 | Torch Rooftop Lounge | 1630 San Pablo Ave, Oakland | 5 p.m. | $0-$106.49

Exclusive rooftop lounge in beautiful downtown Oakland. Located on the sixth floor of a modern design, all-glass building, with automatic retractable roof and sunshades, fire torches and heaters, and modern furniture. Featuring Music By DJs Lexx Jonez & Slowpoke spinning Hip-Hop, R&B, Afrobeats and Club Classics! Hosted by Lloyd Lewis.

Monday 7/28

Haight Laughsbury Comedy Show
7/28 | O’Reilly’s Pub | 1840 Haight St, SF | 7:15 p.m. | Free

Welcome to Haight Laughsbury, the weekly comedy show that keeps the spirit of Haight-Ashbury weird, funny, and very much alive. Expect bold stand-up, fresh storytelling, and that unfiltered creative energy the neighborhood’s always been known for. Whether you’re bringing a date, your friends, or just your slightly hungover self, Haight Laughsbury is the perfect way to shake off the start-of-week and actually look forward to Monday.

The Atomic Bomb Audition
7/28 | Ivy Room | 860 San Pablo Ave, Albany | 7:30 p.m. Doors | $14.73, 21+

Born out of four friends’ individual experiments with art rock, chamber music, metal, free improvisation and film soundtracks, The Atomic Bomb Audition filters traces of these impulses through doom metal heft and pop-hook sensitivity. The result: apocalyptic love songs for an ever-ending world perpetually reborn. Referencing artists as far flung as The Melvins, The Cure, and Angelo Badalamenti, the band reveals something altogether unique—loud in feeling, heartbreaking in reach, yet always hopeful in spirit. This is the sound of our inevitable loss of innocence confronting an equally inevitable regeneration of life.

The Week of 7/29-8/4

Tuesday 7/29

Dropkick Murphys + Bad Religion
7/29 | Fox Theater | 1807 Telegraph Ave, Oakland | 6 p.m. Doors | $78.15

Dropkick Murphys proudly remain Boston’s rock ‘n’ roll underdogs turned champions. Since 1996, the boys have created the kind of music that’s meant to be chanted at last call, in packed arenas, and during the fourth quarter, third period, or ninth inning of a comeback rally. Aside from essentially defining the California half-pipe punk blueprint, Bad Religion has defied the usual trend-shifts or values-ditched ubiquities of the usual punk band storyline and morphed along with challenging album after challenging album amid astoundingly consistent touring, retaining their core audience while roping in subsequent generations of anxiously energetic kids.

Ramirez
7/29 | August Hall | 420 Mason St, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $34.61, 5+

San Francisco-born rapper RAMIREZ, co-founder of the influential underground label G*59 Records, is bringing his explosive energy and raw lyricism to the stage. Known for his gritty flows, phonk-heavy beats, and hauntingly introspective bars, RAMIREZ has become a defining voice in modern underground hip-hop. Blending West Coast swagger with Southern rap nostalgia, RAMIREZ delivers high-intensity live performances that tap into fan-favorite tracks from across his acclaimed catalog—including Son of Serpentine, The Grey Gorilla, THA PLAYA$ MANUAL, and The Tragedy of a Clown. His sound fuses the dark, lo-fi grit of Memphis legends like Three 6 Mafia with Bay Area bounce, crafting a vibe that’s both nostalgic and undeniably original.

Wednesday 7/30

Fumi Abe
7/30-8/2 | Punch Line San Francisco | 444 Battery St, SF | 8 p.m. | $29+, 18+

Fumi Abe is a Japanese-American stand-up comedian/writer based in Los Angeles who was named Vulture’s Comedians You Should and Will Know in 2023 and was part of the 2023 Just For Laughs New Faces. He has appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Dropout’s Smarty Pants, and has written for The Late Late Show with James Corden, NPR’s “Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me!”, the ESPYs, and was most recently a Story Editor on Seth MacFarlane’s animated TV series “Ted”. Fumi has opened for national headliners such as Ronny Chieng, Ilana Glazer, Iliza Shlesinger, Tom Papa, and Hannah Berner.

BYO BOOKS – The Books Not Bans Happy Hour!
7/30 | ANINA | 482 Hayes St, SF | 7 p.m. | Free

Join a whole lot of queer-friendly lit people who support BNB sending LGBTQIA+ books to community groups in conservative areas throughout the U.S. for free. Books can be life affirming, and reading them, acts of power. Be with people who love books and celebrate their impact! Socialize with others or read by yourself—come with books you love and adore, or books you have yet to indulge in. We love to share the love! Last Wednesday of every month, 7:00-9:00 PM

Wake Naked, Kinda Good Band, Riff Mama
7/30 | Brick & Mortar Music Hall | 1710 Mission St, SF | 8 p.m. Doors | $21.86, All ages

My buddy’s band, Wake Naked, is playing Brick & Mortar! Wake Naked is a genre-bending alternative rock band from Berkeley, CA. With raw vocals, tight rhythms, and sweeping, emotional dynamics, their sound blends grunge-era tones with modern psychedelia. Known for their electrifying live energy and honest songwriting, Wake Naked brings both edge and heart to every performance.

Gogol Bordello
7/30 | Mountain Winery | 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga | 7:30 p.m. | $54.01+

Gogol Bordello has spent over a decade electrifying audiences the world over with its internationally acclaimed gypsy-punk sound. As innovators and leaders of the Gypsy Punk genre, the group’s supercharged music is based on a gypsy two-step rhythm, and is augmented by styles picked up along the way including metal, rap, flamenco, roots reggae, Italian spaghetti, Western twang and dub. Their music and legendary concert performances have earned the band a global following and critical praise, including from former Village Voice Chief Music Critic, Robert Christgau, who called Gogol Bordello “the world’s most visionary band.”

Thursday 7/31

Jane Wickline & Liva Pierce Present: DUKES
7/31 | The Independent | 628 Divisadero St, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $38.13, 21+

Following a sold-out DUKES mini-tour and Jane’s SNL debut, comedians Liva Pierce and Jane Wickline are returning to the stage together. Original sketches, songs, and special guests…. it’s something completely new. Jane Wickline & Liva Pierce (DUKES) are a sketch comedy duo based in Brooklyn, NY. Jane got her start on TikTok, amassing over a million followers and starring in Stapleview’s original sketch series. Jane joined the cast of SNL for the 50th season and has had many of her Weekend Update bits go viral already. Liva has performed stand-up, improv, and sketch all over the country and recently made their off-Broadway debut as a part of Ars Nova’s ANT Fest. After training at The Second City in Chicago, Liva moved to New York and the pair founded DUKES!

Keyshia Cole
7/31 | Oakland Arena | 7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland | 7 p.m. | $42.42+

Born and raised in Oakland, California, Keyshia Cole began her career as a backing vocalist for MC Hammer before ultimately signing with A&M Records, under whom she released her debut studio album, The Way It Is, in 2005. Dubbed by critics as the “Princess of Hip-Hop Soul”, Cole is best known for her soulful voice. Her work has earned her several awards and accolades, including an ASCAP Award and a Billboard Music Award. From 2019 to 2020, she hosted the Fox Soul syndicated television talk show One on One with Keyshia Cole.

State of Play
7/31-8/3 | ODC Theater | 3153 17th St, SF | 6 p.m. | $80-$300

State of Play invites you to join the creative process, presenting premieres and works in progress by dance artists from the Bay Area and across the US who push the limits of experimentation, risk, and curiosity. Bringing audiences and artists closer together, State of Play centers the art of art-making and its constant: play.

Pompeii
7/31-8/17 | Storek – A NPU Venue | 155 9th St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $44.52+, 18+

Step into Detour’s latest immersive production, Pompeii, where multiple floors pulse with Fosse-inspired choreography, drag, and theater. In here, life is beautiful—but catastrophe is ever near.

Friday 8/1

GD60 After-Party: Jerry Garcia Birthday Bash w/ Playing The Dead + special guests
8/1 | O’Reilly’s Pub | 1840 Haight St, SF | 11 p.m. | $27.37, 21+

Join us on Friday, August 1st… Jerry Garcia’s birthday, for a psychedelic after-party blowoutright in the heart of Haight-Ashbury — where it all began. Featuring a full two live sets from the beloved San Francisco tribute band Playing The Dead + Special Guests, keeping the spirit alive with all your favorite Jerry and Dead classics, deep cuts, and cosmic jams.

Alonzo Bodden
8/1 & 8/2 | Cobb’s Comedy Club | 915 Columbus Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $32.05+, 18+

Towering over the crowd at 6-foot-4, comedian Alonzo Bodden is big guy — and he’s got a huge sense of humor to match. Ticket buyers don’t stand a chance of keeping a straight face as the former Last Comic Standing champion whips out smart jokes with sharp wit, quick comedic timing, and infectious enthusiasm. Bodden is an astoundingly keen comic who incorporates current events, politics, pop culture, and social issues into his routine with a perfect blend of insight and humor. As one of the business’s busiest and most in-demand comedic personalities, Boden never fails to disappoint with his hilarious shows on tour.

DARK LEATHER: Circus Variety Show + Party
8/1-8/2 | Fluid510 | 1544 Broadway, Oakland | 8 p.m. Doors | $33.85-$289.95

DARK Events is bringing back the hottest event of the season! This summer, we honor & celebrate the various subcultures joined by leather in a single event. Blending aesthetic elements of goth, rock, punk, metal & k!nk, we invite you to step into our world where the cultures fuse. Please come dressed to impress in your fiercest leather looks. Taking place inside of the fabulous venue Fluid510, the evening will be as enchanting as it is inspiring. We welcome you to the world of Dark Leather with opening ambient entertainment, themed vendors, and visual art. The main show features aerial acrobatic performances by our in-house troupe, The Dragonettes, as well as performers from Ruckus + Rumpus Revival, Flux Vertical Theater, DAM Circus, Hubba Hubba Revue & Fou Fou HA! Stay after the show to enjoy the night market of local artisan crafts, dance music and opportunities to interact with your companions. The night features dancy beats by Dark Veteranø.

An Evening with Francis Ford Coppola and Megalopolis Screening
8/1 | Palace of Fine Arts | 3601 Lyon St, SF | 6 p.m. Doors | $146.05+

Legendary director, Francis Ford Coppola (The Godfather, Apocalypse Now, The Outsiders) is bringing his monumental 2024 film, MEGALOPOLIS, to select cities across the country. This exclusive event offers a rare chance to experience the film as it was meant to be seen—on the big screen, surrounded by a live audience. Following the screening, Coppola will lead an interactive conversation about the future of humanity, along with a live audience Q&A. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to see MEGALOPOLIS —not currently available on streaming—and engage with the iconic director live.

Saturday 8/2

Less Than Jake
8/2 | The Regency Ballroom | 1300 Van Ness Ave, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $49.75-$71.65

From sweaty club shows to uproarious festival dates, LESS THAN JAKE’S deeds are best measured in the smiles they’ve generated for life-long fans and new listeners alike. “Uncharted”, the ska-punkers’ brand new 7 song EP released by longtime label Pure Noise Records, should help keep those smiles tattooed on the faces of their fans. The new material is stacked with loud guitars, booming bass, thunderous drums, those distinct vocal harmonies, and the one-two punch of the trombone and sax. These seven tracks see the band conquering new musical territory, while holding true to the classic LESS THAN JAKE sound.

Jerry Day
8/2 | Jerry Garcia Amphitheatre | 40 John F Shelley Dr, SF | 11 a.m. | Free

Friends of Jerry Garcia Amphitheater present the 23rd Annual Jerry Day, San Francisco’s civic and cultural celebration of native son and one of the greatest rock guitarists of all time, founding member of The Grateful Dead, Jerry Garcia, on Saturday, August 2 at the Jerry Garcia Amphitheater in San Francisco’s Excelsior District. Marking several significant anniversaries – the 60th anniversary of the founding of The Grateful Dead, the 30th anniversary of Garcia’s death and the 20th anniversary of the naming of the Jerry Garcia Amphitheater – this free event draws new and long-time fans to celebrate the musician’s artistry and his indelible legacy. Featured performers include Melvin Seals and JGB, with fiddle player Mads Tolling, and Stu Allen & Mars Hotel.

The Princess Bride—Film with Live Orchestra
8/2 & 8/3 | Davies Symphony Hall | 201 Van Ness Ave, SF | 3 p.m. | $99+

Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles! Experience one of the most beloved films of all time as never before with the SF Symphony performing the entire musical score of this fairy tale adventure live-to-picture!

BBQ Without Borders: Toward a Greener Future
8/2 | Oakland Museum of California | 1000 Oak St, Oakland | 3 p.m. | $85+

BBQ Without Borders is a day to show unity, cultivating a space where immigrants can celebrate their culture’s positive additions to our society. Immigrants have long contributed valuable sustainable practices, from eco-friendly farming to a deep respect for nature, helping us “cook up” a more sustainable future. This year, three talented chefs will join us as we create safe spaces to talk about challenging topics in a more digestible manner.

Taste of Jack London 2025
8/2 | BLOC15 | 252 2nd St, Oakland | 12 p.m. | $35-$85

Join us for the Taste of Jack London beer & food festival, a vibrant celebration of Oakland’s craft beer and culinary scene, co-hosted by the Jack London Improvement District and the Jack London Brewing District. This revamped version of our beloved Jack London Brewing District Block Party—now in its fourth year—features a fresh new location and an exciting new twist: unlimited tastings from top local restaurants alongside incredible beer. Sip your way through unlimited samples from standout breweries like Cellarmaker Brewing, Original Pattern, Oakland United, Shapeshifters, and many more to be announced. Pair your pours with bites from neighborhood favorites like Xingones Cantina, Everett and Jones BBQ, Farmhouse Thai, and more. Choose a beer tasting ticket, a food tasting ticket—or go all in with both—and enjoy an unforgettable day in the heart of Jack London.

Melissa Etheridge + Indigo Girls
8/2 | Greek Theatre | 2001 Gayley Rd, Berkeley | 6 p.m. Doors | $64.75+

Known for her confessional lyrics and raspy, smoky vocals, Etheridge has remained one of America’s favorite female singers for more than two decades. Across four decades, 16 studio albums, and over 15 million records sold, Indigo Girls continue to blaze the trail for generations of Queer artists in the mainstream. The Grammy-winning duo of Emily Saliers and Amy Ray began their career in clubs and bars around their native Atlanta, GA amidst a blossoming alternative music scene before signing to Epic Records in 1988. 

Ben Schwartz & Friends
8/2 | Fox Theater | 1807 Telegraph Ave, Oakland | 6 p.m. Doors | $71.75-$92.65

Ben Schwartz brings some of his friends on stage to create a totally improvised show. Nothing is prepared beforehand, every word is made up on the spot, creating a unique comedy experience for every city.

Sunday 8/3

Beyond the Fence Playa Bound Trunk Show
8/3 | The Midway | 900 Marin St, SF | 11 a.m. | Free w/ RSVP

We’re back for our 17th annual celebration of creativity, community, and next-level fashion! Join us as we showcase the best independent designers bringing you the most playa-worthy styles—whether you’re prepping for the dust or just dressing to express.

Wiz Khalifa – Good Vibes Only Tour: Smokers Edition
8/3 | Toyota Pavilion at Concord | 2000 Kirker Pass Rd, Concord | 6:30 p.m. | $30+

Wiz Khalifa is on tour and brought some friends! Lineup: Wiz, Dom Kennedy, Earl Sweatshirt, Curren$y, Ab-Soul, Chevy Woods, Fedd the God, and DJ Bonics.

Dead Polish w/ The Polish Ambassador
8/3 | Public Works | 161 Erie St, SF | 10 p.m. | $31.67+, 21+

After three days of cosmic jams with Dead & Co in Golden Gate Park, the journey doesn’t end at sundown. On Sunday, August 3rd, The Polish Ambassador touches down at Public Works with a special “Dead Polish” set — a one-night-only fusion of Grateful Dead vibes and TPA’s signature funk-infused, bass-laced soundscapes.

Monday 8/4

Motown on Mondays
8/4 | Madrone Art Bar | 500 Divisadero St, SF | 7 p.m. | $12.51, 21+

It’s only Monday if you treat it like one! DJ Gordo Cabeza and weekly guests play originals, exclusive remixes and close relatives of your favorite Motown songs. The most talked about night in town!

Frente Cumbiero
8/4 | Rickshaw Stop | 155 Fell St, SF | 8 p.m. | $27.72, All ages

With a long and successful career, FRENTE CUMBIERO has become one of the biggest representatives in the exploration of cumbia’s sonic identity in Latin America. Headed by Colombian songwriter and producer Mario Galeano Toro (also founding member of Ondatrópica and Los Pirañas), Frente Cumbiero is recognized as a spearhead of Colombia’s new cumbia movement.

EATS & DRINKS!

Empanada Showdown
8/5 | The Commons at KQED | 2601 Mariposa St, SF | 7 p.m. | In-Person: $24.38 ($20 ticket + fees)

From Chile to Argentina to the Philippines, empanadas are a staple; but how did each region come up with their own version?

Discover the various forms of empanadas with three locally rooted Bay Area chefs and taste their comforting creations as you learn how different cultures make their own deliciously filled concoction of vegetables, spices, proteins and flour.

Fresh Glass Uncorked: Wine Tasting and Conversation
8/16 | The Commons KQED | 2601 Mariposa St, SF | 2 p.m. | In-Person: $91.77 ($79 ticket + fees)
Join us for a live edition of Fresh Glass, the Emmy Award–winning series that celebrates flavor, culture and entrepreneurship.

Host Cassandra Schaeg will maestro the conversation with special guests like Fern Stroud, founder of Black Vines, Robin McBride, co-founder of The McBride Sisters Wine Company, and co-owners of the hottest new San Francisco restaurant, Meski, top Chef Nelson German, and Guma Fassil.

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