San Francisco’s Top Free Festivals You Can Enjoy Year-Round

San Francisco is a city that knows how to celebrate, and its festivals are proof of that. The best part? Many of these events are free, making them accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a long-time local or just passing through, these festivals offer a chance to connect with the city’s culture, music, and traditions. Here’s a guide to some of the most exciting free festivals in San Francisco, with all the details you’ll need to plan your visit.

Chinese New Year Festival and Parade

San Francisco’s Chinatown hosts one of the biggest Chinese New Year celebrations outside of Asia. This annual event marks the Lunar New Year with a parade full of floats, dragon dances, and cultural performances.

When: Late January or February, depending on the Lunar New Year
Where: Chinatown (Grant Avenue and surrounding streets)
Highlights: The 268-foot-long Golden Dragon and firecrackers that light up the streets
Website: chineseparade.com

Carnaval San Francisco

This celebration of Latin American and Caribbean cultures brings two days of music, dancing, and food to the Mission District. The Grand Parade is a colorful display of samba dancers, floats, and live bands.

When: Memorial Day Weekend (May)
Where: Mission District (24th Street and Bryant Street)
Highlights: Live salsa and reggaeton performances, as well as food vendors showcasing global flavors
Website: https://carnavalsanfrancisco.org

San Francisco Pride

SF Pride is one of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in the world. Featuring a parade, live music, and booths from community organizations, this weekend event is both a celebration and a call for equality.

When: Last weekend of June
Where: Civic Center Plaza and along Market Street
Highlights: The parade features elaborate floats, drag queens, and performances by notable artists
Website: sfpride.org

St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival

This annual event brings Irish culture to the streets of San Francisco, combining a traditional parade with live music and family-friendly activities.

When: Mid-March (Saturday closest to St. Patrick’s Day)
Where: Market Street for the parade and Civic Center Plaza for the festival
Highlights: Irish dancers, bagpipers, and food stalls serving Irish fare

Cherry Blossom Festival

Japantown comes alive each spring with this event dedicated to Japanese culture. From traditional performances to modern cosplay events, there’s plenty to see and do.

When: Two weekends in April
Where: Japantown (Post Street between Laguna and Fillmore Streets)
Highlights: The Grand Parade, taiko drumming performances, and food vendors selling Japanese dishes
Website: sfcherryblossom.org

Union Street Festival

This neighborhood street fair blends art, food, and music into a lively weekend event. Local artists, musicians, and vendors set up shop, creating a fun atmosphere for all ages.

When: First weekend of June
Where: Union Street (between Gough and Fillmore Streets)
Highlights: Eco-friendly initiatives, artisan booths, and wine tastings
Website: unionstreetsf.com/festivals

North Beach Festival

One of San Francisco’s oldest street fairs, the North Beach Festival celebrates the Italian-American heritage of the neighborhood. Expect live music, food, and unique activities.

When: June (specific dates vary)
Where: North Beach (Columbus and Grant Avenues)
Highlights: The Blessing of the Animals ceremony and the annual chalk art competition
Website: www.northbeachfestival.org

Fleet Week

This annual event honors the U.S. military with air shows, ship tours, and waterfront activities. The Blue Angels are the main draw, performing incredible stunts over the Bay.

When: Early October
Where: Marina Green, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the waterfront
Highlights: Blue Angels air show and the opportunity to tour active Navy ships
Website: fleetweeksf.org

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass

This free music festival in Golden Gate Park attracts top-tier talent from across genres. While bluegrass remains the focus, you’ll also hear folk, indie, and Americana artists.

When: First weekend of October
Where: Golden Gate Park (Hellman Hollow, Lindley Meadow, and Speedway Meadow)
Highlights: Past performers have included Emmylou Harris, Elvis Costello, and Wilco
Website: hardlystrictlybluegrass.com

Stern Grove Festival

Every summer, Stern Grove hosts free Sunday concerts featuring a mix of local and international musicians. The outdoor amphitheater is surrounded by towering trees, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

When: Every Sunday from June to August
Where: Stern Grove (19th Avenue and Sloat Boulevard)
Highlights: Past performers include The Isley Brothers, Janelle Monáe, and the San Francisco Symphony
Website: www.sterngrove.org

Autumn Moon Festival

Chinatown celebrates the Mid-Autumn Festival with cultural performances, lion dances, and mooncakes. The event is a blend of tradition and community spirit.

When: September (specific dates vary)
Where: Chinatown (Grant Avenue and surrounding streets)
Highlights: Night market vibes and performances showcasing Chinese music and dance
Website: www.moonfestival.org

San Francisco’s free festivals are more than just events, they’re a chance to connect with the city’s energy and its people. Whether it’s music in the park, cultural parades, or a street fair, these gatherings are woven into the city’s identity. Plan ahead, bring some comfortable walking shoes, and get ready to enjoy the best of what San Francisco has to offer without spending a dime.

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Daniel C

Hi, I’m Daniel. I’m a big coffee enthusiast who loves traveling and discovering new places. When I’m not on the road, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and planning our next adventure.

San Francisco’s Top Free Festivals You Can Enjoy Year-Round