Festivals, carnivals, parades and holidays
San Francisco is not only a city of majestic bridges, hills, and unique architecture but also a cultural hub with a rich program of festivals and events. Throughout the year, diverse festivals take place here, attracting thousands of tourists and locals alike. Festivals in San Francisco offer unforgettable experiences and allow you to immerse yourself in the city's atmosphere, enjoy its culture, art, and gastronomy.
What to do in San Francisco? Well, at least take a stroll through the festivals — they are incredibly diverse here. We'll show you the best ways and places to do just that. Here are a few festivals where you can go, have fun, and make lots of pleasant memories.
You can read more about each festival in our detailed articles.
Top 9 Must-Visit Festivals in San Francisco
San Francisco International Film Festival (SFIFF)
If you think that American cinema revolves solely around the Oscars, here's a newsflash: the oldest and most prestigious annual film festival in the U.S. takes place in San Francisco. It’s also the most democratic festival: it happens in April (when airfares are not so high), and anyone can attend the screenings — just buy tickets on the SFIFF website.
Outside Lands Music & Arts Festival
A multicultural festival that gathers huge crowds. And for a good reason: it features music stages, ethical food, handmade crafts, artists, and even eco-friendly initiatives. If you want to spend the day strolling from wine tastings to music stages and art exhibitions, meeting lots of new people along the way, this is the place for you.
Carnaval San Francisco
Carnaval San Francisco is a vibrant and colorful festival held in May that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Latin America and the Caribbean. The central event of the festival is a parade that winds through the streets of the Mission District, featuring a spectacular display of dances, music, and bright costumes.
The festival includes a multitude of events such as concerts, dance shows, food fairs, and exhibitions. Carnaval San Francisco is a celebration of life that attracts thousands of people and creates an unforgettable atmosphere of joy and festivity.
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival
This music festival brings together a diverse crowd in Golden Gate Park. It features seven stages where over a hundred musicians and bands perform. Often referred to as the new Woodstock, the festival showcases not only legendary artists but also new bands that are rapidly gaining popularity.
San Francisco Pride
You don't have to be a part of the LGBTQ+ community or even support it to have a great time at San Francisco Pride. Seriously — despite all prejudices, the parade is incredibly bright, colorful, and positive. San Francisco is home to one of the most active LGBTQ+ communities, so events like these are held regularly. But they don't sow any disgust — only pleasant surprises.
And this is just the beginning — a big city means many events. To learn about the most interesting ones and choose the best options for your leisure, contact us at American Butler! We love and know how to create the best travel routes across the USA.
Folsom Street Fair
Folsom Street Fair is the world's largest festival dedicated to leather and BDSM culture. It takes place on the last weekend of September and attracts tens of thousands of participants. The festival features fashion shows, performances, dances, and other events.
Folsom Street Fair is a unique event that offers visitors the chance to freely express their individuality and enjoy various forms of art and culture. The festival also has a charitable focus, raising funds to support LGBTQ+ organizations and communities.
North Beach Festival
North Beach Festival is one of the oldest street festivals in San Francisco, held in June. The festival takes place in the North Beach area and includes numerous events such as concerts, exhibitions, food fairs, and art installations.
North Beach Festival is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the culture and history of the area, which is considered San Francisco's "Little Italy." Here you can try Italian cuisine, enjoy live music, and participate in various family-friendly activities.
San Francisco Street Food Festival
San Francisco Street Food Festival is a gastronomic celebration held in August. The festival gathers the best street food vendors in the city, offering visitors the chance to try a variety of dishes from around the world.
The festival features well-known restaurants as well as up-and-coming chefs presenting their unique culinary masterpieces. It's a great opportunity to explore new flavors, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and spend time with friends and family.
San Francisco Jazz Festival
San Francisco Jazz Festival is an annual event held in June that brings together the best jazz performers from around the world. The festival includes numerous concerts, masterclasses, and jam sessions, offering jazz enthusiasts the chance to enjoy live music and discover new artists.
The festival takes place in various venues around the city, including the famous SFJAZZ Center, allowing visitors to experience a wide range of musical styles and genres.
Festival Life Rules
Like any big city, San Francisco has a few rules that are best followed. Not mandatory, but they will make life more comfortable and safe. This is especially true for festivals and other mass events, where you are just one of thousands of guests.
- 01.Don’t carry too many things.
This attracts the attention of street thieves. Of course, no one will touch you in a crowd, but they might follow you. Don’t fall into paranoia and see a criminal in every passerby, but it’s better to blend in with the locals and not carry a backpack full of expensive photography equipment. - 02.Don’t leave anything in cars.
Especially if you park far away. This rule works all the time — any left bags or valuables are stolen mercilessly. But when everyone is busy with a bright spectacle, thieves see great opportunities. - 03.Don’t believe stereotypes.
Forget prejudices when it comes to festivals! Below, you’ll understand what we mean. But the fact remains — don’t dismiss an entertainment option just because of biases; it will turn out to be fun and cool in the end.
San Francisco’s festivals are true celebrations that reflect the spirit and culture of the city. No matter when you plan to visit San Francisco, there will always be a festival that makes your stay even more interesting and unforgettable. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, meet new people, and discover all the facets of this amazing city.
Interested in the Most Exciting Events in San Francisco? Let American Butler organize your visit to the best festivals in the city. Contact us to learn more!
