Best Things to Do in San Francisco This May 2025
The best things to do in San Francisco this May 2025 offer fresh ways to enjoy the city’s culture, outdoor views, and seasonal activities. From live music and food pop-ups to waterfront events and local art, there’s something new to look forward to around every corner.
Best Things to Do in San Francisco This May 2025
1. Bay Area Dance Week
Bay Area Dance Week, an inclusive celebration of movement and dance, returns in 2025! Experience over 400 free dance events, including performances, workshops, and classes across the Bay Area. A celebration of movement and community.
- Date: April 25 – May 4, 2025
- Location: Various venues
- Website: https://www.bopsidy.com/h/badw
2. Yerba Buena Gardens Festival Opening Day
Kick off the festival’s 25th anniversary with Grammy-winning La Santa Cecilia and local favorite La Doña. Enjoy free outdoor performances in the heart of the city.
- Date: May 10, 2025
- Location: Yerba Buena Gardens, 750 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94103
- Website: https://ybgfestival.org/
3. Carnaval San Francisco
Celebrate Latin American and Caribbean cultures with a vibrant parade, live music, and delicious food. A family-friendly event full of color and energy.
- Date: May 24–25, 2025
- Location: Mission District, SF
- Website: https://carnavalsanfrancisco.org/
4. Bay to Breakers
Join one of the world’s oldest footraces, known for its fun costumes and festive atmosphere. A unique San Francisco tradition.
- Date: May 18, 2025
- Location: Starts at Main St & Howard St, ends at Ocean Beach, San Francisco, CA
- Website: https://www.baytobreakers.com/
5. SF Giants Home Games
Catch the San Francisco Giants in action at Oracle Park. Enjoy America’s pastime with stunning bay views.
- Dates: Various dates in May 2025
- Location: Oracle Park, 24 Willie Mays Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94107
- Website: mlb.com/giants
6. Foodwise Summer Bash
Savor seasonal bites and drinks from top local chefs and bartenders at this culinary celebration. Support local food education programs.
- Date: May 19, 2025
- Location: Ferry Building, 1 Ferry Building
- Website: foodwise.org
7. Candlelight Concert: Tribute to Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
Experience a magical evening of music under candlelight, featuring renditions of popular hits in a unique setting. Candlelight Spring concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in SF.
- Date: May 2, 2025
- Location: Saint Ignatius Church, 650 Parker Ave.
- Website: https://feverup.com/m/305378
8. SF Symphony Performances
Enjoy world-class orchestral music at the Davies Symphony Hall, featuring various programs throughout May.
- Dates: Various dates in May 2025
- Location: Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave.
- Website: sfsymphony.org
9. Mamma Mia! at Orpheum Theatre
Sing along to ABBA’s greatest hits in this feel-good musical that’s fun for all ages.
- Dates: May 1–14, 2025
- Location: Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Website: broadwaysf.com
10. Berkeley Bluegrass Festival
Experience three days of foot-stomping tunes, workshops, and community jams at the Berkeley Bluegrass Festival. Curated by Grammy-winner Laurie Lewis, this event brings together top-tier bluegrass musicians and fans for an unforgettable musical celebration.
- Date: May 2–4, 2025
- Location: The Freight & Salvage, 2020 Addison St, Berkeley, CA 94704
- Website: thefreight.org/bluegrass
11. APA Heritage Awards & Gala Reception
Kick off Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month at the APA Heritage Awards & Gala Reception. Celebrate the rich cultural contributions of the AAPI community with performances, awards, and a vibrant gathering at the historic Herbst Theatre.
- Date: May 1, 2025
- Location: Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Website: apasf.org
12. Stern Grove Festival
Enjoy free concerts in a beautiful outdoor setting, featuring artists like Diana Ross and the Pointer Sisters. A beloved summer tradition.
- Date: Starting May 25, 2025
- Location: Stern Grove, 19th Ave & Sloat Blvd, SF, CA 94132
- Website: sterngrove.org
San Francisco in May 2025 is brimming with diverse events that cater to all interests—from music festivals and cultural celebrations to unique local experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, there’s no shortage of activities to make your month memorable.
Ready to explore? Plan your itinerary now and immerse yourself in the vibrant happenings of SF this May!
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