Best Bay Area Events 8/19-9/8

Float On
by Vanessa Gil, Arts & Events Editor

Who else is in need of a vacation?? I’d settle for a beach day. Just a little time away from the same old day-in, day-out. A water cleansing. Soul recharge. That’s on this week’s to-do list, for sure! There’s also plenty of events going on to provide a reprieve from the tediousness of every day. Here’s what some things I’m looking forward to the week of 8/19 and beyond.

Our Merch

FOGust is finally here! So don’t get caught without your official SF Summer gear! We’ve got a number of different designs. Check them all out right here.

Our Giveaways

Win Tix to see BATS GPT: The Improvised AI Experiment!

Welcome to BATS GPT, a one-of-a-kind long form improv experience where LIVE creativity meets AI! Each performance begins with ChatGPT setting the opening scene inspired by audience suggestions. The cast then dives headfirst into a fully improvised world where the AI continues to add twists, characters, or revelations that challenge and inspire the improvisers in real time. Will the AI be fun to play with, a mysterious oracle, or a mischievous wildcard? Two full stories each night. One unpredictable machine. Infinite possibilities.

You can purchase tickets here or enter here for a chance to win a pair!

Our Partners’ Events

UNSTAGED. Third Thursdays Live on Mid-Market
8/21 | Mid-Market | Market St between 5th & 6th, SF | 4 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

On August 21st the Mid-Market Entertainment Zone will be going off with Filipinx artists, musicians, DJs, dancers, makers, and performers thanks to the collaboration with our friends at Kultivate Labs. Join us in celebrating Filipinx art, artists, and community creativity from 4-7 PM on Market Street between 5th and 6th. RSVP today!

This Week’s Events 8/19-8/25

Tuesday 8/19

Poetic Tuesday
8/19 | Great Lawn, Yerba Buena Gardens | Mission St. between 3rd & 4th St, SF | 12:30 p.m. | Free

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.

Blues Traveler and Gin Blossoms
8/19 | The Mountain Winery | 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga | 6:30 p.m. | $109.18+

Over an illustrious career Blues Traveler has played over 2,000 live shows in front of more than 30 million people, and, in “Run-Around,” had the longest-charting radio single in Billboard history, which earned them a Grammy® for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.

TAP IN TUESDAYS
8/19 | The Valencia Room | 647 Valencia St, SF | 10 p.m. | Free

TAP IN TUESDAYS featuring Hip Hop, R&B, Afro Beats, and Reggaeton.


Wednesday 8/20

Zla Vila + Cila Puccadella: Carpathian Indie Folk
8/20 | The Lost Church San Francisco | 988 Columbus Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. Doors | $22

Zla Vila (“Bad Fairy”) plays music that would feel at home in the vampire-infested Hoia-Baciu forests of Transylvania.  Lyrics about werewolves and undersea creatures mix with traditional Balkan and Carpathian fiddle music.  Heart-rending violin, carnivalesque accordion, brilliant trombone, and the superstar musicianship of Leo on the bass. Cila Puccadella draws links between southern Italian, Balkan, French, Greek, Arabic, and other styles of music to create a fun, inspiring, and beautiful show.

Sam Barber
8/20 | The Warfield | 982 Market St, SF | 8 p.m. | $52.40-$148

The 21-year-old singer-songwriter from Southeast Missouri has already seen his career begin on a meteoric rise, and his debut album, Restless Mind, is set to send him into orbit. The accompanying Restless Mind Tour will introduce tens of thousands of new fans to Barber’s energetic and emotional live show as well.

THIRST DRAFT: WRITE DRUNK, EDIT NEVER
8/20 | Madrone Art Bar | 500 Divisadero St, SF | 6 p.m. | No Cover

An event for writers — and for writing. Everyone gets the same prompt when they walk in the door. What ends up on the page is up to you. Here’s how it works: Write whatever you want — poem, song, short story, joke… anything works! Interpret the prompt however you like but try to incorporate it in some way Work alone or collaborate with friends/strangers — no word count or time limit.

Summer Happy Hour
8/20 | Two Embarcadero Center | Urban Patio entrance on Sacramento St, SF | 4 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Celebrate the final Happy Hour of the season at Embarcadero Center. Wrap up summer with a night of great flavors, good company, and classic San Francisco energy.

Thursday 8/21

“I Saw but I Did Not See” – A Solo Exhibition by Winston Smith
8/21 | 111 Minna Gallery | 111 Minna St, SF | 5 p.m. | Free

From new works born of our chaotic times to rarely-seen classics, expect a journey from the nightmare of oppression to the surreal dreamscape of imagination. Don’t miss this chance to see—and collect—original art by one of punk’s most iconic voices.

Mae Powell
8/21 | The Independent | 628 Divisadero St, SF | 8 p.m. | $29.89, All ages

Mae Powell is a Bay Area based songstress and rainbow entity. Her debut album was released in 2021 and is an homage to love and friendship. Her sophomore album, “Making Room For the Light”, is set to come out on August 15th. Until then, you can find her singing jazz, spinning vinyl, or playing her original music with her 5-piece band made up of her very best friends.

LaRussell and Good Compenny Present: A Bay Area Music Showcase
8/21 | Suite Treatments | 3729 Sonoma Blvd, Vallejo | 7 p.m. | $52.94-$115.76

KQED and artist collective Good Compenny come together in Vallejo for a night that’s more than a show — it’s a moment to showcase musical talent from the Bay Area. Five local artists will hit the stage for a live music showdown, judged by Vallejo star LaRussell and other local heavy hitters, including artist manager Tietta, videographer Splash, violinist Michael Prince, pianist and producer Hokage Simon, and videographer and photographer BGIGGZ.

This Paranormal Life
8/21 | Cornerstone | 2367 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley | 8 p.m. | $40.12

This Paranormal Life is a multi-award-winning comedy podcast! Every Tuesday, comedians Kit Grier Mulvenna and Rory Powers investigate a different paranormal case to try and find the truth inside the mystery. From investigating the Roswell UFO incident to more obscure topics like Bigfoot’s cousin the Skunk Ape, and Evil Furbies, listeners delight as hosts Kit & Rory dissect each case and come to the ultimate conclusion of whether it is truly paranormal or not.

Friday 8/22

17th Annual GLIDE Summer Gala: Love. Unite. Inspire. Dance.
8/22 | Phoenix Hotel | 601 Eddy St, SF | 8 p.m. | $85+

A benefit for GLIDE’s programs featuring music, celebration, and recognition of community champions. Hosted by and for the next generation of Bay Area philanthropists, changemakers, and creatives, the Summer Gala fuses party energy with progressive action, supporting GLIDE’s mission to break cycles of poverty and advance equity through unconditional love, radical inclusion, and social justice.

RUPTURE: DIASPORADICA
8/22-8/30 | Festival Pavilion | 2 Marina Blvd, SF | 7 p.m. | $24.87-$111.18

Bay Area Experimental Performance Collective RUPTURE, in collaboration with Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture, present the world premiere of DIASPORADICA, a mesmerizing 3-hour immersive experience, running August 22-30, 2025 at the Pier 3 Festival Pavilion. This theatrical takeover reshapes Fort Mason’s massive waterfront venue into a barrage of all-consuming rhythms and explosive movement, and dares audiences to reckon with their place in its interactive odyssey of mutiny and belonging.

My Morning Jacket
8/22 | Greek Theatre |  2001 Gayley Rd, Berkeley | 6 p.m. Doors | $68.75+

MY MORNING JACKET is ON TOUR! Berkeley – see you at the Greek Theatre on Friday, August 22 to celebrate the release of our new album.

Lady Camden: The Peach Pit Cabaret
8/22 | Bimbo’s 365 Club | 1025 Columbus Ave, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $48.93-$116.40, 21+

Lady Camden’s brand new, recurring cabaret show at Bimbo’s 365 Club brings together the worlds of drag, burlesque, performance art, live music, and beyond- with a vintage twist straight out of Moulin Rouge.

A. Deeplove
8/22 | Monarch | 101 6th St | 9 p.m. | $33.63, 21+

MGMT frontman Andrew VanWyngarden, AKA A. Deeplove, takes dancers on a genre-defying trip at his Standard Time debut.

itchy-O
8/22 | Great American Music Hall | 859 O’Farrell St, SF | 8 p.m. Doors | $44.33

Itchy-O is a fifty-plus-strong experiential performance ensemble. Weaving a synergistic spell, itchy-O dismantles assumptions of traditional performance models to break down the barriers between audience and performer, administering a bombast of ceremonial chaos; baptizing the audience—body, mind, and collective spirit—in an elaborate, pan-sensorial ocean of music, mystery, and transcendental spectacle.

Wreckless Stangers at San Francisco Zoo Sunset Fridays
8/22 | San Francisco Zoo | Sloat Blvd @ The Great Hwy, SF | 5 p.m. | $14

Wreckless Strangers is a collective of friends and musicians carrying the torch for San Francisco’s grand rock ‘n’ roll tradition. With soaring vocal harmonies and burning instrumental improvisation, framed in concise and poignant original songwriting, Wreckless Strangers seek to honor and carry forth the brand of free-spirited musical fun and adventure that defines the Bay Area.

Old Oakland Summer Stroll
8/22 | Old Oakland | Around 9th & Washington St, Oakland | 4 p.m. | Free

Old Oakland comes alive as restaurants ands shops step out onto the sidewalk joined by artists, musicians, and more!


Saturday 8/23

Electrify Expo 2025: San Francisco
8/23-8/24 | Alameda Point | 2151 Ferry Point, Alameda | 10 a.m. | $22.84-$65.29

Electrify Expo is the ultimate outdoor festival jammed with amazing experiences, thrill zones, multiple demo courses, kids demo tracks, live entertainment, the tastiest food trucks and endless fun for all ages. With multiple demo courses scattered around the show, you’ll be driving, riding, ripping and rocking out like never before.

Sorry Papi – The All Girl Rave
8/23 | August Hall | 420 Mason St, SF | 10 p.m. | $14.06-$39.75, 21+

The Sorry Papi EDM Tour is a groundbreaking event, celebrated as the first ALL-GIRL RAVE, it’s more than just a party—it’s a vibrant space designed specifically for women to connect, celebrate, and thrive.

RECLAMATION Opening Reception
8/23 | Heron Arts | 7 Heron St, SF | 6 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Heron Arts is pleased to present RECLAMATION, a duo exhibition featuring about forty artworks by Augustine Kofie and Erik Otto.

Cultura Fest 2025: A Celebration of Salvadoran and Latin American Heritage, Creativity, and Community
8/23 | Downtown South San Francisco | 400 Grand Ave, SF | 11 a.m. | Free

Step into a world where vibrant Salvadoran and Latin American cultures come alive through music, art, food, and community spirit.

The Show at Oracle Park: Bay FC vs. Washington Spirit
8/23 | Oracle Park | 24 Willie Mays Plaza, SF | 1 p.m. | $20+

Bay FC will take their talent to the City’s waterfront venue, home to Major League Baseball’s San Francisco Giants and known for hosting iconic moments in Bay Area sports. The match, presented by Visa, will be a statement, a celebration, and another epic moment in Bay Area history. Experience a day of world-class soccer in the heart of San Francisco, where breathtaking views of the Bay meet the city skyline.

Summer Backyard Bash
8/23 | The Crossing at East Cut | 250 Main St, SF | 12 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Sports and movies on jumbo screens, pickleball courts, soccer fields, cornhole and lawn games, a full bar and food court—The Crossing is Downtown’s Backyard, and what better way is there to celebrate summer than with an epic backyard party? Invite your friends and neighbors, and get ready for some family-friendly fun under the sun and among the palm trees.

Mt. Joy
8/23 | Greek Theatre | 2001 Gayley Rd, Berkeley | 6:30 p.m. Doors | $78.15

Mt. Joy’s undeniable musical prowess, live musicianship, and stage presence are steadily catapulting them to become household names, as they fast become one of America’s most beloved live bands.

Sunday 8/24

Mad Caddies
8/24 | Ivy Room | 860 San Pablo Ave, Albany | 8 p.m. | $30.18, 21+

Formed in Santa Barbara, California, in 1995, the Mad Caddies continue to be celebrated in the ska and punk music circles, known for their unique sound and exhilarating shows.

4th Annual Green Party
8/24 | The Midway | 900 Marin St, SF | 3 p.m. | $30.90-$43.26, 21+

Join us for the 4th annual Green Party and DJ Shellheart’s birthday at Midway SF! A high energy day party with DJs, green inspired vibes, and nonstop celebration. Dress in all green and pull up ready to party!

Monday 8/25

Radiohead: In Rainbows
8/25 | The Midway | 900 Marin St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $27.13

This is a listening party to experience one of Radiohead’s most beloved albums in immersive hi-fi sound. Experience In Rainbows like never before as you are fully enveloped in pristine sound. Each detail comes alive as you feel the energy of Thom Yorke’s haunting vocals, the intricate guitar riffs of Jonny Greenwood, and the powerful rhythm section of Colin Greenwood and Phil Selway all around you.

Toto, Christopher Cross + Men At Work
8/25 | Toyota Pavilion at Concord | 2000 Kirker Pass Rd, Concord | 6:45 p.m. | $44.50+

Get ready for the best rockin’ summer nights as TOTO, CHRISTOPHER CROSS, and MEN AT WORK join forces on tour. As these old friends come together for a night of the best rock music, fans old and new will surely enjoy their career-spanning setlists.

Japanese Breakfast
8/25 | The Lagunitas Brewing Company | 1280 North McDowell, Petaluma | 4:20 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

After a decade making the most of improvised recording spaces set in warehouses, trailers and lofts, Japanese Breakfast’s fourth album, For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women), marks the band’s first proper studio release. The record sees frontwoman and songwriter Michelle Zauner pull back from the bright extroversion that defined its predecessor, Jubilee, to examine the darker waves that roil within, the moody, fecund field of melancholy, long held to be the psychic state of poets on the verge of inspiration. The result is an artistic statement of purpose: a mature, intricate, contemplative work that conjures the romantic thrill of a gothic novel.

The Week of 8/26-9/1

Tuesday 8/26

Yuno
8/26 | Popscene @ Brick & Mortar Music Hall | 1710 Mission St, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $29.59

Imbued with elements of dream-pop, rock, trap, and psychedelia, Yuno’s eclectic songs serve as bids for love and connection, which especially in the fractured era of social media, have resonated with many listeners who find solace in his vulnerability.

Cyndi Lauper
8/26 | Toyota Pavilion at Concord | 2000 Kirker Pass Rd, Concord | 7:30 p.m. | $40.50-$180.50

She bops; she has shown the world her true colours; and she enlightened the world to the fact that girls just wanna have fun. She’s so unusual, she has a hat full of stars, and she’s about to bring a night to remember to audiences all across North America!

Janeane Garofalo
8/26 & 8/27 | Cobb’s Comedy Club | 915 Columbus Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $38.20+ , 18+

Alternative comedy pioneer, actor, political activist, and influential voice in 90s alt comedy scene.

Wednesday 8/27

Kyle Dion
8/27 | The Independent | 628 Divisadero St, SF | 7:30 p.m. Doors | $32.47, 18+

Kyle Dion is a boisterous rising star with a bright falsetto and golden pen. The proudly independent artist possesses a soul from another era and creates a sound refreshing to any generation. Dion’s new album, SASSY,s a bold and bright sonic landscape that promises an unfiltered sound while flaunting a no rules mission statement. It’s a joyous and exclamatory soundtrack to better times.

Tribal Seeds & The Movement
8/27 | The Mountain Winery | 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga | 7 p.m. | $47.18+

Based in San Diego, rock-reggae band TRIBAL SEEDS come at their music from a different angle, more influenced by bands like Steel Pulse and Aswad than the common touchstone of Sublime.

Chess Lecture at the Bernal Library
8/27 | Bernal Heights Branch Library | 500 Cortland Ave, SF | 6 p.m. | Free

Join us for a short chess presentation about a beautiful game from chess history, followed by time for casual combat for those who want to play. All levels and ages are welcome. Bring a chess set if you have one.

“Dear Aunt Antagony…” – A Comedy Show for Terrible Advice
8/27 | The Function | 1414 Market St, SF | 8:30 p.m. | $0-$7.18

Do you have a problem in life you can’t solve? Need some inspiration to get out of your rut? We are here to help. Bring your grievances and our panel of Aunt* Antagony, led by Elisha Tan, is here to give you terrible advice with motivational-speaker-level confidence.

Thursday 8/28

French 79
8/28 | Bimbo’s 365 Club | 1025 Columbus Ave, SF | 8 p.m. | $38.12, 21+

While the exploitation and touring of the TEENAGERS album came to an end in December 2024, and the artist began production of his fourth album, he felt the need to return for a few club dates in 2025.  A call to return to the roots of an unadorned live set, in order to prioritize proximity with audiences, return to places he particularly loves, glean a few ever-precious encounters and feed his inspiration for this next album.

SF Black Pride presents Ball Out
8/28 | 1015 Folsom | 1015 Folsom St, SF | 9 p.m. | $12.89+, 21+

SF Black Pride presents Ball Out, a high-energy dance party celebrating Black queer excellence through music, fashion, and liberation. Featuring top DJs, bold performances, and immersive visuals, this night will be a joyful, unapologetic takeover of one of SF’s most iconic venues. Come dressed to impress and ready to sweat—this is the official SF Black Pride dance floor moment.

The Worst Film Festival
8/28 | Mama Dog Studios | 700 26th St, Oakland | 6 p.m. | $17.85

TWFF is the usual film festival turned upside down – We showcase filmmakers’ self-submitted “worst work” and use the event to celebrate creative risk-taking to learn from each other’s experiences. Trying and failing is how we get better – let’s make it fun!

Profs & Pints San Francisco: Thinking in Comics
8/28 | Bartlett Hall | 242 O’ Farrell St, SF | 6 p.m. | $14.75+

Profs and Pints San Francisco presents: “Thinking in Comics,” a revolutionary discussion of the importance of visual thinking and the limitations of the written word, with Nick Sousanis, award-winning comics author, associate professor of interdisciplinary studies, and founder of the Comic Studies program at San Francisco State University.

JURASSIQ PARQ – A Musiqal Parody
8/28-8/30 | OASIS | 298 11th St, SF | 6:30 p.m. | $57.33-$82.95

Join Dr. Laura Dern, Jeff Ian Malcolm Goldblum and the rest of the gang as they venture to a mysterious island where dinosaurs are alive… and singing chart-topping hits of the 90s, 2000s and today. Featuring outrageous drag, fierce dance, over-the-top puppets, dino divas, and soaring pop vocals, Jurassiq Parq is the immersive campy queer sci-fi nostalgia of a millennial’s wet dreams. Audiences are encouraged to dress up and sing along in this original take on the 1993 film that shaped a generation.


Friday 8/29

Discovery Meadow w/ DJ Snake, RL Grime, Troyboi, Dr. Fresch + more
8/29-8/30 | Downtown San Jose | 180 Woz Way, San Jose | 3 p.m. | $86.72+

Join us for your end of Summer celebration at Discovery Meadow! Two days of music, food, vendors and more take over downtown San Jose for the inaugural year of the festival.

Friday Nights at OMCA with NOODLES
8/29 | Oakland Museum of California | 1000 Oak St, Oakland | 5 p.m. | Free

Choose your vibe with two live DJ sets that bring intention and serious rhythm to the night. On the Garden Stage, NOODLES delivers a DJ set featuring a genre-bending mix of hip-hop, R&B, electronic, and global sounds.In the Amphitheater, DJ Sucia lights up the space with a high-energy fusion of Latin beats, house, EDM, and today’s hip-hop hits.

Jerry Garcia In The Lower Mission: A Dead Origin Story
8/29 & 8/30 | Fort Mason Center | 2 Marina Blvd, SF | 8 p.m. | $50

Magic Theatre presents the first performances of Jerry Garcia In The Lower Mission by Richard Montoya. Join author and performer Montoya with live music by J. Raoul Brody and David Gans, and performances by Dena Martinez, Aidaa Peerzada, and Brian Rivera for this tribute play and origin story of the legendary San Francisco band, the Grateful Dead.

SF Industrial Ball ’25
8/29 | Cat Club | 1190 Folsom St, SF | 9 p.m. | $10, 21+

Come walk The Black Carpet for a wonderful night of dancing to the world of Industrial music.

Riff Rumble!
8/29 | 1769 15th St, SF | 6:45 p.m. | $10.38-$28.52

Riff Rumble is a hilarious combination of the Bay Area’s best comedians riffing and ranting about their (and your) fun ideas. There are 4 more comedians onstage and they each have their own microphone. Throughout the whole show they’re going to be tagging jokes, roasting the comic onstage and talking to the audience. With five comics onstage at the same time this is one of the most fast paced and hilarious shows in the Bay Area.


Saturday 8/30

Non Stop Bhangra: Crash An Indian Wedding Party
8/30 | Great American Music Hall | 859 O’Farrell St, SF | 8 p.m. Doors | $31.96

Step into a vibrant world of swirling colors, joyful music, beautiful dancing, and contagious energy—reminiscent of the magic and mayhem of an Indian wedding celebration. From the moment doors open, you’re part of the family. Enjoy a mix of all the colorful festivities that make Indian wedding parties so unforgettable—from sangeet-style moments with live singing and instruments to delicious Indian snacks and sweets, henna art, vibrant visuals, photo booths, and more.

HUSSY: A Queer Day Party
8/30 | El Rio | 3158 Mission St, SF | 3 p.m. | $14.64, 21+

Meet us outside. HUSSY is taking over El Rio’s patio for a shamelessly sexy daytime dance party, serving house, techno, and filthy beats for you and the fam.

159th Scottish Highland Gathering & Games
8/30-8/31 | Alameda County Fairgrounds & Event Center | 2005 Valley Avenue, Gate 8 or 12, Pleasanton | $44.80

Witness world-class competitions, from the awe-inspiring feats of Scottish heavy athletes to the electrifying energy of Scottish dancing, piping, and musical performances. Immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich culture with traditional music, delicious food, and breathtaking performances that bring the spirit of the Scottish Highlands to life!

REGGAETON RAVE
8/30 | Phoenix Hotel | 601 Eddy St, SF | 1 p.m. | $21.99+, 21+

Reggaeton Rave is an electrifying fusion of pulsating rhythms, vibrant energy, and an immersive sensory journey where Latinx and Electronic music collide in an unforgettable dance celebration.

Free Creatures
8/30 | Brick & Mortar Music Hall | 1710 Mission St, SF | 8 p.m. Doors | $23.10

The Pacific Northwest brings us yet another new musical flavor in the alt hip hop power fusion trio, Free Creatures. The trio was born from emcee & producer Marv Ellis remixing original beats on an MPC live while rapping and freestyling in his beloved and charismatic style. This foundation provides the perfect pedestal for featuring the smooth, sweet swagger of upright bassist and singer Emily Turner, and the expansive effects of electric guitar layers and solos from upside-down leftie shredder Skyler Squglio.

Free Shakespeare in the Park Presents: The Two Gentlemen of Verona
8/30 | McLaren Park – Jerry Garcia Amphitheater | 40 John F Shelley Dr, SF | 2 p.m. | Free

Our 43rd season of Free Shakespeare in the Park brings you The Two Gentlemen of Verona, directed by Ely Sonny Orquiza.  Since 1983, as part of SF Shakes’ mission to make Shakespeare accessible to all, we’ve brought our Free Shakes production to audiences around the SF Bay Area; no tickets or Shakespeare experience required.

Sunday 8/31

R&B and Ribs Block Party
8/31 | The Midway | 900 Marin St, SF | 2 p.m. | $80.34, 21+

A day party with good food & dope djs. We’re bringing an extra special Block Party Labor Day Sunday to the Midway! With performances by Ashanti & Trey Songz plus all your favorite RIBS resident DJs.

Sunday Night Soul Roll
8/31 | Church of 8 Wheels | 554 Fillmore St, SF | 8 p.m. | $23.08

This is how you we spread rolligion!!! Come spend a Sunday night skating to some sweet soul music!!!

Crucial Reggae Sundays
8/31 | Golden Gate Bandshell | 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, SF | 4:20 p.m. | Free

Crucial Reggae Sundays: free, family-friendly reggae music in Golden Gate Parkhosted by Irie Dole, Guidance, and DJ Sep and featuring special guest Irie Rockerz.

Monday 9/1

Labor Day Kick Back
9/1 | Oeste – Bar | 722 Clay St, Oakland | 2 p.m. | $0-$65.87

Oakland Essence x Tropic Soul Summer is here. We’re bringing amazing vibes to great Venues in the SF/Bay Area.

Monday Night Trivia
9/1 | Magnolia SF – Haight | 1398 Haight St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | Free

Ready for a night of challenge and connection? Come ready to conquer with your team OR if you are on your own, opt for “Trivia Team Up” where we invite solo players to come and be matched with teammates for an unforgettable experience of meeting new people.

Hiero Day 2025 Street Festival
9/1 | Downtown Oakland | 1900 Telegraph Ave, Oakland | 12 p.m. | $16.93+

A dope celebration of music, art, and community in the heart of the TOWN! Featuring Hieroglyphics!

The Week of 9/2-9/8

Tuesday 9/2

Fall 2025 Creative Karaoke League
9/2 | Parliament Event Venue | 811 Washington St, Oakland | 7 p.m. | $40

Join the karaoke league where folks go hardcore and there’s glitter on the floor. If you want to go big, this is your league.

“SABOR” Taco Tuesdays | Latin Music Night
9/2 | ZOË Cocktail Bar & Bites | 579 Howard St, SF | 7 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Join us Every Tuesday Night at ZOË Cocktail Bar for a sizzling evening of Latin beats, mouthwatering tacos, and nonstop vibes. We’re turning up the volume with live DJ sets spinning the best in Top Latin Hits, Salsa, Bachata, Reggaeton, Hip Hop y mas! Paired with authentic tacos and killer cocktails, this is your midweek or weekend escape into Latin flavor and rhythm.

Wednesday 9/3

Mid-Week Mercado
9/3 | Salesforce Plaza | 100 Fremont St, SF | 11 a.m. | Free

Join us every Wednesday through September 24, for a vibrant, large-scale lunch market featuring 14 rotating pop-up food creators. This cultural marketplace offers downtown professionals, residents, and Salesforce Tower guests a chance to discover new flavors and build community connections.

Fat Dog
9/3 | Popscene @ Rickshaw Stop | 155 Fell St, SF | 7 p.m. | $27

Fat Dog are one of London’s most exciting new bands, conjuring the sort of frenzied and wild live shows not seen in the capital for years. Their debut album WOOF. is a brilliant and mind-bending blend of electro-punk, rock’n’roll snarling, techno soundscapes, industrial-pop and rave euphoria, music for letting go to or, in the words of frontman Joe Love, “screaming-into-a-pillow music”.

Tommy Guerrero
9/3 | The Chapel | 777 Valencia St, SF | 8 p.m. | $34.64

Born in San Francisco, Guerrero joined the skate company Powell Peralta in 1984 and became one of the original members of the legendary “Bones Brigade” team. TG has been playing music since the late ’70s with his brother Tony, both raised on a steady diet of DIY punk music/ethos and skateboarding-which informed and shaped the person he is today. Since then, Guerrero has become an accomplished bassist and guitarist with influences as diverse as John Coltrane, Bad Brains, Joy Division, Gabor Szabo and on and on… 

Thursday 9/4

Marvel Studios’ Infinity Saga Concert Experience
9/4-9/6 | Davies Symphony Hall | 201 Van Ness Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $75+

Marvel Studios’ The Infinity Saga Concert Experience is a new film concert that takes fans on an epic onscreen cinematic journey covering 23 films in one momentous concert event.

Science is a Piece of Cake: Marine Biology
9/4 | The Commons at KQED | 2601 Mariposa St, SF | 7 p.m. | $24.38

Learn all about ocean creatures via … cake! KQED’s Check, Please! Bay Area producer Cecilia Phillips is hosting a cake bake-off where marine biology will serve as our visual prompt. Each cake will be inspired by the marine life featured in the California Academy of Sciences’ aquariums. Enter the competition as a beginner, intermediate or advanced baker or join the audience to learn about who is living in our beautiful waters — while eating delicious cake!

American Patchwork Quartet
9/4 | Botanical Garden at Berkeley | 200 Centennial Dr, Berkeley | 5 p.m. Doors | $60

American Patchwork Quartet is an American musical group that reinterprets traditional folk songs with multicultural influences.

Jackie Clementine + Quattro + My Evergreen Soul
9/4 | Ivy Room | 860 San Pablo Ave, Albany | 7:30 p.m. | $14.73, All ages

Jackie Clementine is an indie garage rock band from Concord, CA.

Goo Goo Dolls, Dashboard Confessional
9/4 | Greek Theatre | 2001 Gayley Rd, Berkeley | 5:30 p.m. Doors | $66.75+

Goo Goo Dolls have quietly broken records, contributed a string of staples to the American songbook, connected to millions of fans, and indelibly impacted popular music for three-plus decades. Initially founded as an acoustic solo project by singer-songwriter/guitarist Chris Carrabba, Dashboard Confessional stands tall at the vanguard of an entire musical scene, adored for its groundbreaking sound and respected for its unwavering candor.

Friday 9/5

Superman Movie Night
9/5 | Oracle Park | 24 Willie Mays Plaza | 6 p.m. Doors | $28-$85

This summer’s biggest super hero is headed to the largest screen in San Francisco for one night only. Join us at Oracle Park on Friday, September 5 for a special screening of the DC Studios and Warner Bros. film SUPERMAN (2025).

Lil Wayne
9/5 | Shoreline Amphitheatre | 1 Amphitheatre Pkwy, Mountain View | 7 p.m. | $40.50+

Five-time Grammy award-winning rap icon Lil Wayne brings his ‘Tha Carter VI’ tour to the Bay Area, celebrating over 20 years of his iconic Tha Carter album series.

The Day the Sky Turned Orange
9/5-10/5 | Z Space’s Steindler Stage | 450 Florida St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $25+

This R&B and hip-hop musical from Julius Ernesto Rea, Olivia Kuper Harris, and David Michael Ott is a testament to living through the trials of 2020 as well as a compassionate reminder of the importance of caring for our planet, our communities, and ourselves.

Fort Mason Night Market 2025
9/5 | Fort Mason | 2 Marina Blvd, SF | 4 p.m. | Free, All ages

This outdoor market transforms the historic Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture into a dynamic showcase of local artisans, cuisine, and entertainment. 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.

Good VBZ Presents: Oakland Pride Kickoff Party ft. Jus10
9/5 | Fluid510 | 1544 Broadway, Oakland | 10 p.m. | $23.18+

Oakland… y’all ready? Pride weekend is about to go OFF and we’re starting it with the official kickoff party you’ve been waiting for. We’re bringing the one and only JUS10 — fresh off a feature in Revolt, blending hip hop grit with ballroom magic to create a performance that’s bold, unapologetic, and unforgettable. Jus10 lives where the beat drops meet the ballroom floor, giving power to the people and energy to the night.

Saturday 9/6

Honey Dijon
9/6 | Gold Bar Distillery Treasure Island | 1 Avenue Of the Palms, SF | 2 p.m. | $44.94+

Buckle up… HONEY DIJON plays her biggest San Francisco headline ever on Saturday, September 6th at Gold Bar Treasure Island! Join us for an incredible sunset party with one of the most iconic artists on the globe.

X Ambassadors
9/6 | The Fillmore | 1805 Geary Blvd, SF | 8 p.m. | $52.50+

X Ambassadors is an American pop rock band from Ithaca, New York, that consists of lead vocalist Sam Harris, keyboardist Casey Harris, and drummer Adam Levin. Russ Flynn is a touring member who plays guitar and bass. Their most notable songs include “Jungle”, “Renegades”, and “Unsteady”.

Plaza Palooza Festival
9/6 | Soft Park – Levi’s Plaza | 1200 Battery St, SF | 11 a.m. | Free

Step into the rhythm of Plaza Palooza, where music, culture, and community come together. This year’s lineup features the powerful sounds of Oakland’s own Fantastic Negrito, a three-time Grammy winner known for his soulful fusion of blues, rock, and social storytelling. Also performing are Shadow Work, delivering genre-blending soul that defies expectations, and ASTU, whose powerful R&B-jazz-soul sound brings both intimacy and impact.

Views of Democracy – Opening Reception
9/6-10/25 | Rhythmix Cultural Works | 2513 Blanding Ave, Alameda | 3 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Views of Democracy is the culmination of more than a year of work to identify and curate a visual art exhibition that celebrates democracy. In Views of Democracy, you will see a wide range of media and technique, from video to sculpture and from painting to photography, textile art and mixed media. Some of the works are representational, others are fantastical; some are abstract, others include narrative. Several pieces in the show reference traditional symbols of America, some honor public institutions and some focus specifically on joy. Joy and art can be acts of resistance.

La Misa Negra
9/6 | The Independent | 628 Divisadero St, SF | 9 p.m. | $32.47, 21+

La Misa Negra is a 7-piece band from Oakland, California, known for their unique blend of cumbia and high-energy, Afro-Latin music. On stage, they deliver an electrifying performance that explodes with infectious dance grooves and punk rock energy, powered by horn and accordion-driven riffs, a fierce rhythm section, and a vintage-inspired sound.

FairyProud Pride Night
9/6 | Children’s Fairyland | 699 Bellevue Ave, Oakland | 6 p.m. | $35-$40, 21+

What if your favorite gay bar turned into an amusement park? Poof! Fairy Proud!!Once a year, Fairyland is transformed into a live-out-loud PRIDE celebration bursting with queer joy and fierce fantasy. Ride the Jolly Trolly, dance under the Fairyland stars with three live DJs, savor local flavors in the Fairy food court, dive into delicious libations, and catch jaw-dropping, spectacular DRAG shows curated exclusively for Fairy Proud by the Bay Area’s premiere DRAG collectives. Three stages. Three DJs.

Sunday 9/7

Oakland Pride Parade & Festival
9/7 | Oakland | Broadway & Thomas L Berkley Way, Oakland | 11 a.m. | Free, All ages

WE are STRONGER ✊🏾✊🏿✊🏼✊🏻 together than divided. Let’s do what we know BEST and STAND TOGETHER because IN UNITY, WE THRIVE!

San Francisco Symphony Free Community Performance
9/7 | San Francisco Public Library, Eureka Valley Branch | 1 Jose Sarria Ct, SF | 3 p.m. | Free

We’re proud to bring small ensembles to community spaces across San Francisco. These free concerts are an opportunity to get to know SF Symphony musicians and see them perform in an intimate setting.

Poolside’s Daytime Disco
9/7 | Union Square | 333 Post St, SF | 2 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Poolside is the recording project of producer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jeffrey Paradise. The launch of the first ever Daytime Disco event in San Francisco’s Union Square is special by design. San Francisco is such an important part of Poolside’s history, a city Jeffrey Paradise had called home for years; first as a SFSU alumnus, and later as a DJ and Promoter of the famed Blow Up SF Parties.

The Flaming Lips + Modest Mouse
9/7 | Greek Theatre | 2001 Gayley Rd, Berkeley | 5 p.m. Doors | $83.75+

The Flaming Lips have since become one of the most iconic, influential, unpredictable, and vital forces in American alternative rock music, while Modest Mouse continues to prove themselves to be one of the most consistent live acts today.

Opera in the Park
9/7 | Robin Williams Meadow in Golden Gate Park | 320 Bowling Green Dr, SF | 1:30 p.m. | Free

Join us to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this beloved Bay Area tradition. Music Director Eun Sun Kim leads the San Francisco Opera Orchestra and stars from San Francisco Opera’s 2025–26 Season in an afternoon of glorious music.


Monday 9/8

Raphael Saadiq
9/8 | Davies Symphony Hall | 201 Van Ness Ave, SF | 8 p.m. | $66.75+

From D’Angelo’s iconic Voodoo to Solange’s A Seat at the Table, Saadiq has shaped some of the most influential albums of the 21st century. His own critically lauded Jimmy Lee (2019) further solidified his reputation as a boundary-pushing artist. His recent contributions to Beyoncé’s iconic albums, Renaissance and Cowboy Carter have earned him 8 more Grammy nominations. As he enters the fifth decade of his illustrious career, Raphael Saadiq remains an indispensable force, continuing to shape and redefine the sound of contemporary pop and soul.

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