Hyphen/ Cultural Events

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Fisherman's Wharf

Historical Events

12 Historical Events That Shaped San Francisco

San Francisco’s long and complicated history is as distinct and colorful as its citizens are. From tremendous earthquakes to devastating world wars, San Francisco has long remained one of the most important cities along the Pacific coast. In this short list you will travel through time and look at the twelve most important events that helped make San Francisco it is today.

—Paul Kantner American rock musician

1. Original Settlers

Although there isn’t an exact date to cite, it would be almost criminal to start this list without a mention of the Yelamu tribe of the larger Ohlone people, the original founders of the San Francisco bay. From archaeologi cal evidence you can see that the first settlers came to San Francisco around 3000-8000 B.C. and that the area was used as a major place of hunting and settlement. It is hard to give exact facts about these people because very little records have been preserved, but we do know these people were the rightful owners of the greater San Francisco area.

Fun Fact: The five Yelamu tribes recorded by the Spanish were Amuctac (near present day Visitacion Valley), Chutchui (near the site of the present day Mission Dolores in San Francisco), Petlenuc (near the Presidio of San Francisco), Sitlintac (in the valley of Mission Creek in San Francisco, and Tubsinta (near present day Visitacion Valley).

2. Founding of the Presidio and Mission San Francisco De Asis

The first verified Europeans to have visited the San Francisco Bay were the Spanish explorers Don Gaspar de Portolà (Portola neighborhood namesake) and Franciscan missionary Juan Crespi. These two men helped create the military stronghold Presidio and the Mission San Francisco de Asís. This settlement was one of the first ma jor settlements by Europeans on the western coast and signaled the demise of native rule in California. Although the Missions they founded were often centers of knowledge and education, they were sadly built upon the backs of the native California peoples.

Fun Fact: Don Gaspar de Portolà became the founder and first governor of Alta California, a Spanish state incorporating large sections of the western Americas.

“ San Francisco is 49 square miles surrounded by reality. ”

Historical Events

3. Treaty of Cuadalupe Hidalgo

The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848 marked the end of the Mexican American War and gave America ownership of large swathes of land that would eventually become California, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Wyoming and Colorado. This was a huge blow to the Mexican nation and signified the start of American rule in the West. This was also seen as a direct continuation of Manifest Destiny or the American belief that it was their natural right to expand across the continent. And in 1848 San Francisco officially became an American city (although it was still a relatively small settlement at the time).

Fun Fact: The full title of the treaty is: Treaty of Peace, Friendship, Limits and Settlement between the United States of America and the Mexican Republic.

4. 1848 Gold Rush

The Gold Rush of 1848 is often credited as the single largest event that brought millions of citizens to the western stretches of America. Before this, much of the west coast was still seen as barbaric lands unfit for civilized eastern citizens. But with the opportunity of so called “free wealth”, millions flocked from all over the world to get a piece of their own American dream. San Francisco was heavily affected by this mining craze and in 1849 its population boomed from 1,000 to 25,000. Also, as a result of this boom, there was an increased presence of Chinese workers who were often the ire of many ‘true’ Anglo Saxon Americans.

Fun Fact: Levi Strauss & Co. clothing, Ghirardelli chocolate, and Wells Fargo bank were all founded in the wake of the gold rush.

5. Chinese Exclusion Act

One of the lowest points in American history was the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act, which banned all immigration (excluding children of Chinese Ameri cans) from China. This act is often seen as a direct consequence of mislead anger from working class Americans who feared the Chinese were going to take over the western coast while the Irish would take over the eastern seaboard. This horrendous act essen tially froze all communication between Chinese Americans and their families in China. And even worse, this act wasn’t repealed until 1943.

Fun Fact: Because the San Francisco City Hall and Hall of Records was destroyed in the 1906 Earthquake, many Chinese immigrants (known as “paper sons“) who claimed that they had familial ties to resident Chinese-American citizens were denied entry to America. This forced many Chinese Americans to obtain illegal documents so they could immigrate here.

6. Building of the Golden Gate Park

From the 1860s until the 1890s, San Francisco was transformed into the so-called “Paris of the West.” The government of the city was dead set on changing the image of San Francisco into a respectable avant grade city like New York or Philadelphia. And one of the major events that marked this transformation was the building of the Golden Gate Park in 1887. Designed primarily by William Hammond Hall, the three mile long park attempted to beatify the city and be a western rival to Central Park.

Fun Fact: Golden Gate’s own Conserva tory of Flowers was founded in 1879 and is the oldest building in the entire park. It houses 1,700 species of tropical, rare and aquatic plants and was inspired by the Kew Gardens in London.

Historical Events

7. The Graft Trials

The infamous Graft Trials were a series of attempts from 1905 to 1908 to prosecute and convict members of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors for bribery. The so-called ‘big four’ prosecutors of the cases were Frances J. Heney, William J. Burns, Fremont Older and Rudolph Spreckels. These four men attempted to clean up the open corruption that plagued San Francisco government at time but of the two major targets, San Francisco Mayor Eugene Schmitz and attorney Abe Ruef, only Ruef served four years in jail.

Fun Fact: A rejected juror shot Heney in the face (although he survived) and was found dead in his jail cell the next morning. Many commonly believe that Ruef had the juror killed after pushing him to shoot Heney.

8. 1906 Earthquake and Fire

The event that had the most drastic effect on San Francisco’s physical landscape was the 1906 Earthquake and resulting fire, which killed over 3,000 people and destroyed nearly 80% of the city. The 7.6 magnitude earthquake stuck early in the morning at 5:12 AM before most people were out of bed. As powerful as the earth quake was, it was believed that the ensuing blaze destroyed far more than the earthquake. This single event completely changed San Francisco’s history and drastically altered the appearance of the city.

Fun Fact: The death toll from the two combined events is still the greatest loss of life from natural events in California’s history.

9. Pearl Harbor and Executive Order 9066

Pearl Harbor changed everything.

The first major attack on American soil since the Mexican-American war, Pearl Harbor was a dark day for most Americans as their national security was now threatened on both sea boards. This event forced San Francisco into overdrive and made it into one of the largest ports used by the American military service. As well as bringing in new workers (mostly black Americans from the South), it also heralded the rise of xenophobic sentiment. On February 19th, 1942, president Franklin Delano Roosevelt signed Order 9066 which detained people of Japanese descent, regardless if they were naturalized citizens or born in America.

Fun Fact: At Hunters Point in 1945, major parts of the first atomic bomb were transported onto the USS Indianapolis for shipment to Tinian.

10. Summer of Love

After one of the largest conflicts in recorded history, war seemed like the last thing on most American minds. But with the escalation of the Vietnam War, a large group of American society rejected that decision and came together in the storied 1967 ‘Summer of Love’. Over 100,000 people were reported to have traveled to San Francisco’s own Haight-Ashbury district to celebrate free love and peace in the world. This artistic, musical, and cultural movement spurred sister movements across the globe and spawned an era of political resistance that dared to defy jingoistic American politics and ideas.

Fun Fact: Ken Kesey, author of ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ and major figurehead of the hippie movement, was partially inspired to write his book while working in a mental hospital and participating in the illegal CIA-funded LSD/Mind control experiment called Program MKUltra.

11. Election of Harvey Milk

Harvey Milk shocked the world when he was elected to public office as the first openly gay man in 1978. Although he is oftentimes remembered for his violent death, Milk strived to break grounds for LGBT people and helped to destigmatize LGBT citizens to the average American. His life was tragically cut short but he heralded in a new area of queer positive associations. And to this day, the Castro district can still see the positive influences that Milk brought.

Fun Fact: Milk served in the United States Navy during the Korean War on the USS Kittiwake (ASR-13).

12. Election of Edwin Lee

Edwin Lee is often seen as a symbolic figure that shows how drastically a city can change. Elected as the first Asian American mayor in a city where Asian Americans have constantly fought persecution and racism, Edwin Lee is a shining example of progress and forward thinking. Although there is much to do, Lee’s appointment show cases how things slowly are progressing in the right direction. Whether or not you agree with Lee’s politics, his tenure of office has showed the world the kind of city that San Francisco so desperately wants to be.

Fun Fact: Edwin Lee is the 43rd mayor of San Francisco.

Architectural Styles

12 Popular Architectural Styles in San Francisco

When you think of San Francisco, beautiful and uniquely designed buildings undoubtedly come to mind. You can walk down a street and see several examples of interesting architecture on the same block! From the famous Painted Ladies to the streamlined Art Deco modern structures, San Francisco’s architectural styles are some of the most distinctive in the country.

“ San Francisco is poetry. Even the hills rhyme. ” —Pat Montandon American humanitarian

1. Gothic Revival (1830-1890)

First popularized in England during the mid-1700s, the Gothic Revival style took the United States by storm roughly a century later. This style is known for its masonry construction, with patterned brick and dramatic stone carvings of everything from birds to gargoyles. Gothic Revival also draws a lot of inspiration from authentic medieval styles. Of course, not all residential buildings are that dramatic; an offshoot called Carpenter Gothic incorporates many of the same elements, but with wood rather than stone. San Francisco’s Grace Cathedral Close, built in 1928, was one of the last Gothic Revival structures ever built, and today it stands as a stunning example of the dramatic style. You can also visit the beautiful Saint Francis of Assisi Church, located in the historic Italian downtown and originally built in 1860.

2. Victorian Stick (1860-1890)

San Francisco is known for having the highest concentration of stick style homes in the world! This style was relatively unpopular at the time of its inception, and many dismissed it as being too strange. However, today it’s considered an innovative pre-Civil War architectural movement. Stick style is a charming blend of Gothic and Victorian architecture. These homes feature long, thin pieces of wood— hence the name “stick” style—applied to the corners. Initially, the wooden pieces were considered decorative, and designers expanded upon this look in the coming decades, adding more and more elaborate touches like gables, porches, and projecting bays, typically with ornate roofs. Stick style homes are multi-level and tend to be slender; the Westerfield House, built in 1889, is a perfect example of a San Francisco stick style home.

Architectural Styles

3. Queen Anne (1880-1910)

One of the most popular subsets of the Victorian style, Queen Anne architecture is known for its bright and flamboyant colors, detailed gingerbread trim, bay windows, and turrets. San Francisco’s popular Painted Ladies are built in this style— they feature multiple balconies and porches and typically stand two to three stories tall. In general, Victorian architecture is quite popular in San Francisco, and many buildings were constructed as an homage to London row houses. After the style grew in popularity during Queen Victoria’s reign, the famous South Park district of San Francisco was developed in 1852, and the architectural design became a citywide hallmark.

4. Shingle Style (1880-1910)

This post-Victorian style has one prominent feature: shingles that cover the plain facade of the home. Shingle style originated in New England and inspired San Francisco architects like Ernest Coxhead and Willis Polk to bring the style back west. The homes appear far more rustic and informal than many prior styles, and those found in San Francisco are often uniquely Californian due to their redwood shingles. Many shingle style homes still exist in San Francisco today, designed by architects like Bernard Maybeck and Julia Morgan. One example is located on the city’s Broderick Street and features a beautifully updated interior.

5. Tudor Revival (1890-1940)

At the end of the 19th century, San Francisco’s Tudor Revival-style homes dramatically grew in popularity. Originally used solely for grand mansions, the Tudor Revival style also began to be used in smaller, more modest homes. Features of this style include steep roofs with one or more intersecting gables, long rows of windows, and decorative timbering. The structures are asymmetrical and built using various materials. Tudor Revival’s popularity tapered off around World War II due to rising patriotism, which inspired homebuilders to favor quintessentially American styles like Colonial. Plus, more homes were being mass-produced during this time, and the intricate Tudor style didn’t exactly fit in. However, plenty of examples of this architectural style can still be found today in the San Francisco area. Some stunning examples include a Bernard Maybeck-designed mansion and the Ernest Coxhead House in San Mateo.

6. Edwardian (1900-1930)

This Neo-Baroque architectural style became popular in early 1900s England (inspired by the reign of King Edward VII) before spreading across the pond. The Edwardian style blends elements of Art Nouveau, Victorian, and Georgian architecture. It includes hallmarks like domed rooftop pavilions, light colors, and more simplistic details—overall, it’s a less ornate and more relaxed version of the Victorian architectural style. In particular, San Francisco’s Edwardian-era homes are less flamboyant. Since many San Francisco Victorian homes were destroyed in the devastating 1906 earthquake, the city today is full of many more Edwardian-style homes.

Architectural Styles

7. Mission Revival (1890-1920)

Inspired by iconic Spanish missions, this style grew in popularity during the Edwardian period. Most of San Francisco’s remaining Mission Revival homes were built after 1901, and historians consider the style’s popularity to be a reaction to industrial ization during this time. Many people felt nostalgic for different periods in history, and the romantic and unique Spanish mission style is truly a callback to a different time. The main elements of Mission Revival are stucco facades and decorative adobes. Today, you can find Mission Revival homes in the San Francisco neighborhoods of Glen Park, the Richmond, the Sunset, Outer Mission, and Noe Valley. Many buildings also incorporate this style—check out the historic Presidio military base, which features the iconic red tile roofs, stucco walls, and rounded bell gables.

8. Craftsman (1910-1920)

The Craftsman style is also considered a response to the rapid industrializa tion of the early 20th century. Since machines could produce more prod ucts than ever before, many worried that there would be no more origi nality in homebuilding. The solution? Handmade homes designed and built by skilled craftsmen far from the city center. Typically, Craftsman homes feature round-columned porches with stone supports, gable roofs, wide eaves, exposed rafters, and handcrafted stone or woodworking. As the name implies, houses built in this style are intended to shine a spotlight on workmanship.

10. Streamline Modern (1930s)

9. Art Deco (1920s)

Art Deco architecture typically reflects the flamboyance and excitement of the Roaring Twenties, with decorative geometric patterns and modern materials like chrome, glass, or steel. While this style was not often used for homebuilding, various Art Deco buildings can be found throughout San Francisco. Some examples include the New Mission Theater, which was renovated by Timothy Pflueger in 1932 to highlight the Art Deco style, and the Eng-Skell building, originally home to a laboratory and manufacturing plant.

Considered an offshoot of the Art Deco style, Streamline Modern grew dramatically in popularity during the Great Depression, when Americans were dreaming of bigger and better things. This sleek, luxurious style draws inspiration from aerodynamic details on trains, cars, planes, and ships and incorporates long silhouettes, horizontal details, and rounded corners. This more modern style is typically found in more recently developed areas of San Francisco, like Excelsior, outer Mission, and Noe Valley. Some prominent examples include the Malloch Building, an apartment complex designed by Irvine Goldstine and built in 1936, and the Aquatic Park Bathhouse Building’s Maritime Museum, built in 1939. This museum took tremendous inspiration from ocean liners and even features porthole windows! Overall, the Streamline Modern style was commonly used for public buildings from train stations to airports, but residential examples can be found in the Sunset District.

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SF MOMA)

11. Mid-Century Modern (1950s–1960s)

Turning their eyes to the future, many architects and designers pivoted to building even more modern homes during the 1950s. Thus the Mid-Century Modern style was born! These homes typically feature open-concept floor plans and lots of glass, offering a seam less transition from outside to inside. Carports are an important fixture of these homes as well. Land was scarce in San Francisco during this period since much of the city had already been developed. However, thanks to new technologies that protected buildings from harsh weather conditions, areas previously considered too difficult to build on became accessible. Many Mid-Century Modern homes were built in areas like Diamond Heights, Twin Peaks, and Golden Gate Heights during this decade.

12. Postmodern (1960s–1970s)

Where were the newest San Francisco homes built? As San Francisco catapulted toward radical change in the 1960s and gained a reputation as the epicenter for counterculture, free-spirited and unique houses were constructed in areas like the Sunset, Golden Gate Heights, Diamond Heights, and Bernal Heights. Interior design also took a postmodern turn, with earthy tones, high-tech futurism, and hippie-chic natural elements.

Culture Shock

Culture Shock Moving to San Francisco

With courage of adventure, you can overcome the culture shock in a visit to a new country. ”

—Lailah Gifty Akita

Ghanaian and founder of Smart Youth Volunteers Foundation

“

The Weather Changes

Most regions in the United States offer varying types of weather throughout the seasons. San Francisco manages to offer varying types of weather based on what street you’re standing on. Start on one street and the weather may be cool, dry, and sunny. Go over a few streets and you might get caught in a rain storm that somehow lowers the temperature by ten degrees. Try to escape the rain by crossing over to another street? Sorry, that’s near Ocean Beach and the gusts might remind you of Arctic winds.

But if you truly want to understand just how strange the weather can be in San Francisco, look no further than the Golden Gate Bridge. And we really do mean “look no further,” because some days you won’t be able to see it because of the fog. That’s right; the fog in this city can be so thick it can obscure a giant, bright orange landmark that’s usually visible from miles away.

It’s Expensive Really expensive. But it’s pretty. And look on the bright side, you probably saved some money with your DIY moving trip.

At Least the Monsters Aren’t Real

If you’ve been to the movies in the last decade, you may have noticed that San Francisco has become the preferred location for the numerous fictional Ground Zeros of many a disaster and monster movies. It seems like every big-budget action movie features scenes of San Francisco being destroyed by something, be it earth quakes, giant monsters, super intelligent apes, or just Mother Nature having a bad day. Truth be told, earthquakes can present a potential danger for living in San Francisco, but it’s the kind of danger that comes from living in the area, sort of like Floridians facing poten tial hurricanes, or Midwesterners dealing with heavy winter snows. Earthquakes notwithstanding, you can take comfort with the knowledge that Godzilla will most likely not rise up from the Pacific.

Culture Shock

Nude Ain’t Rude

This may sound familiar: You’re dream ing, and in the dream you’re walking down a public street only to realize that you’re stark naked. For you, that was (hopefully) just a dream. But in San Fran cisco, it can be a reality.

The city of San Francisco has had a very public back-and-forth on the legality of nudity, and while current rules state public nudity requires a parade permit, a number of clothing-optional events occur on a regular basis, including the World Naked Bike Ride and several nude beaches. We bring this up not to scare anyone, but merely to advise that given the right circumstances, you could turn the corner and encounter someone in their birthday suit. There ARE rules about lewd acts, of course, but they may not apply to someone walking down the street and minding their own business in the buff. They could even be standing on a street corner and spinning those signs while being nekkid.

San Fran and Frisco (Shudder)

Every American city has at least one nickname, some of them so well known you don’t even have to ask what city they’re referring to: The Big Apple, the Second City, the City of Angels. San Francisco has two acceptable nicknames: “SF,” or “The City.” God help you if you say “San Fran” or “Frisco.”

As a new San Francisco resident, you may be tempted to have some fun with this information by going into a crowded place, saying the Forbidden Nicknames loud enough for people to hear, and then sitting back to watch and see if their heads explode.

Don’t Ask for Tex Mex Here

Mexican food is extremely popular in The City, but if you’re used to Tex Mex-style Mexican, you’ll be in for a shock. That means no queso for the chips and you’d better get used to burritos over tacos and fajitas.

Local Culture

The Top Non-Touristy Things to Do in San Francisco

Grab a Bite to Eat at the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market

San Francisco hosts dozens of farmers’ markets that support local businesses and organic, sustainable farming. The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market has a rep utation for the quality and diversity of its farm-fresh products and tasty food. On Saturday mornings, this place is lively with over 100 vendors, guest chefs and farmers popping up to feed and water you with views over The Bay. We recommend lavender shortbread from the Miette Patisserie, followed by coffee from Blue Bottle.

Pedal an E-bike over the Golden Gate Bridge

Forget taking snaps of this iconic landmark from inside a stuffy tour coach. Make like a local and take an electric bike tour right across the 1.7mi (2.7km) Golden Gate Bridge and bypass SF’s best parks, neighborhoods and Victorian architecture along the way. The tour includes a picnic in Golden Gate National Park with epic panoramic views.

Visit the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco

San Francisco boasts what might just be the finest American museum entirely devoted to Asian art. Housed in a beaux-arts building, the museum features thousands of artifacts from countries as diverse as India and Tibet to Japan and China. Take a peek at the Chinese bronze sculptures, the best collection outside of Asia, as well as the centuries-old Hindu deity statues. Short on time? Join the Great Works tour which runs for 45-minutes and zips through the main highlights. Admission is free on the first Sunday of every month and the gift shop is well worth browsing afterward.

Sing karaoke at Festa in Japantown

This intimate karaoke bar is tucked away in the Kinokuniya Mall in Japantown. There are more than 150,000 songs in multiple languages to choose from at $2 each. For over a decade, this bar has been serving up delicious cocktails (try the Saketini) to oil an authentic Tokyo experience in this welcoming but largely under-the-radar neighbor hood. You’re more likely to see a rowdy work night out here than hordes of fellow tourists.

Admire the View from Twin Peaks

Hiking up Twin Peaks (not to be con fused with the David Lynch crime drama) is not only great exercise but a good way to see pre-industrial San Francisco. At 922ft (281m) above sea level, it is one of the largest hills in the city, offering incredible views of the Bay Area. Start the 3km (2mi) circular hike from Clarendon Avenue, just south of Col Valley. It’s quite the leg burner, so make sure you’re wearing comfy shoes and bring a layer in case it’s gusty up top.

“ San Francisco itself is art, above all literary art. Every block is a short story, every hill a novel. Every home a poem, every dweller within immortal. That is the whole truth. ”

—William Saroyan Armenian-American novelist

Local Culture

Snap photos of the 16th Avenue Tiled Step Project

Located on Moraga Street in Golden Gate Heights, the 16th Avenue Tiled Step Project is a beautiful work of urban art. For two years, from 20032005, the steel steps were mosaicked with the pure intention of making them more beautiful; this is certainly the most photogenic staircase you are going to find in the city. Climb the 163 step stairway as it flows through themes, from an oceanic aesthetic to a night sky-inspired design.

Tuck

into street

food at District Six SF

District Six SF, formerly known as Soma StrEat Food Park, is a lifestyle space with outdoor gyms and a barbershop alongside food trucks and pop-ups serving global cuisine. Highlights include The Steamin Burger, where patties are stuffed with jalapeños and steamed so they are less greasy, as well as Moonraker, a seafood-loving outfit that serves outrageously tasty lobster rolls and coconut shrimp.

Hike to Lands End

This 4mi (3km) hike is an absolute must whilst visiting San Francisco. It takes you along the craggy coastal path past Sutro Baths—keep your eyes peeled for the Mile Rock Lighthouse out to sea. At Lands End itself, you can see the Golden Gate Bridge and East Bay, all from one incredible vantage point. Hikers, bikers, exercise groups and dog-walkers frequent this path, which begins right off the Great Highway at Point Lobos Avenue.

Explore Alcatraz Island at night, if you dare

Most tourists flock to Alcatraz Island during daylight hours for good reason. Operating as a high-security federal prison between 1934 and 1963, it housed some of America’s most notorious criminals including Al Capone. Go at night, you say? Well, if you’re brave enough, you will get special treatment with tours and activities not offered during the day, plus the atmospheric impact of the dark night sky and moonlit cells.

Watch the San Francisco Giants play at Oracle Park

Watching the Giants play at Oracle Park in South Beach, one of the most picturesque baseball parks in the country, offers sumptuous views over the Bay. Grab a famous crab sandwich, probably the best snack in baseball, before sinking into the carnival-like ambiance of the game. Tickets aren’t overly expensive if you’re not too picky about your seats, whilst the park itself is accessible by public transport.

Cultural Life

Top 5 Educational and Cultural Activities in San Francisco

San Francisco’s dynamic arts, food and culture scene, distinctive neighborhoods, iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park are reflections of and molded by a diverse multi-ethnic and gender population, colorful history and varying topography.

“ San Francisco has only one drawback—It is hard to leave. ”

—Paul Kantner English journalist

Asian Art Museum

Show your children the brilliant diversity of Asian culture with a trip to San Francisco’s Asian Art Museum. This unique museum is home to antiquities, modern art, calligraphy, sculpture, books, and impressive exhibitions, including an upcoming show about Asian immigration to the Bay Area.

The de Young Museum

Also known as the Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco, this Bay Area gem has one of the best art collections anywhere in the United States. From antiquities to American art from masters from Mary Cassatt to Mark Rothko to costume and textile art from designers like Balenciaga, Chanel, and Yves Saint Laurent, the de Young’s diverse array of art is sure to have something to suit every interest.

Kimball Natural History Museum

While New York may have the most famous natural history museum in the United States, Kimball Natural History Museum is a close second. This massive museum, part of the California Academy of Sciences , is one of the world’s largest natural history museums, and is home to a staggering 26 million specimens.

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

If you want to journey back in time and learn about San Francisco’s rich nautical history, book some time to check out the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. From ships that first set sail over a century ago to exhibits that show just how tough seafaring life can be.

San Francisco Symphony

This 2,700-plus-seat concert hall is the place to see classical music in the Bay Area. Under the helm of conductor Michael Tilson Thomas, this talented group of musicians routinely puts on the most impressive performances you’ll see anywhere in the world. San Francisco is a haven for cultural experiences unlike those you’ll find anywhere else. If you find yourself searching for a new home this year, make sure you check out some options for Bay Area real estate. With plenty of high-tech jobs and enriching cultural activities, your life in the City by the Bay could be more than golden.

The Palace Of Fine Arts

Cultural Events

Cultural Festivals and Events in San Francisco you must Experience

Today, we celebrate these communities with an eclectic lineup of festivals and celebrations, some of which date back more than 100 years. These expressions of pride, diversity and individuality are the perfect way to experience the city. Add these one-of-a-kind cultural events to your next trip itinerary.

“ San Francisco always has had a warm welcome for human beings from all over the world. ”

—Duke Ellington American composer

The Lunar Calendar (February)

The lunar calendar year begins with a bang during the annual Chinese New Year celebration, one of the largest Chinese cultural events outside of Asia. In Chinatown and all around the city, the sounds of firecrackers, beating drums and crashing cymbals can be heard driving away evil spirits (as legend has it). The month-long festivities begin in early February and conclude with the Southwest Airlines Chinese New Year Parade, complete with Chinese acrobats, lion dancers, stilt walkers and a 268-foot Golden Dragon. Beyond the parade, other Chinese New Year events include a Flower Market Fair, a Chinese Community Street Fair (held on parade weekend) and the Miss Chinatown USA Pageant. Be sure to pick up one of the many oranges or tangerines you’ll see piled up in Chinatown produce bins. These fruits symbolize abundance and good luck in the Chinese culture. The Chinese New Year parade is one of San Francisco’s oldest cultural events, dating back to the 1860s, not long after Chinese immigrants began arriving during the California Gold Rush.

Carnaval (May)

Carnaval isn’t just a festival; it’s a season. Kicking off in February and culminating in a massive parade and party on the last weekend in May, Carnaval draws crowds of more than 400,000 to celebrate San Francisco’s vibrant Latin-American and Caribbean communities, making it the largest annual multicultural event in California San Francisco’s Latino roots are as old as the city itself. The Mission District, now the center of Latino life in San Francisco, was first settled by Spanish missionaries in 1776. Chileans, Peruvi ans, Cubans and other Latin-American and Caribbean arrivals later added to the cultural mix. Today, that ethnic diversity can be experienced through out the Mission, from the vivid Mission Murals to the eclectic culinary scene to Mission Dolores, San Francisco’s oldest building. Read more about San Francisco’s Latino history here. Numerous events happen throughout the Carnaval season, but the Grand Parade puts all of these cultures on dazzling display at once.

SF Pride (June)

San Francisco has a long-standing reputation as the LGBTQ capital of the world, and at no time does that legacy shine brighter than during SF Pride, the largest celebration of its kind in the country. Equal parts party and political movement, Pride celebrates the remark able spirit of the LGBTQ community and the trailblazers who’ve fought for equal rights in San Francisco and beyond. Fifty years ago, today's over-the-top costumes and proud displays of love were only a glimmer in the eyes of early LGBTQ activists. It all began in 1970 with a 30-person march down Polk Street, followed by a “gay-in” at Golden Gate Park. Pride went by many names early on, including Gay Freedom Day and Christopher Street West (an homage to the location of New York’s Stonewall Inn, a pivotal site in gay liberation history). But just as the center of gay life in San Francisco shifted to the Castro neighborhood, Pride caught on big and never looked back. Take a closer look at Pride through the years.

San Francisco Festivals For Every Season

WINTER

SF Sketchfest (January)

Is there such a thing as laughing too much? You’ll find out at SF Sketchfest, a nearly month-long showcase of comedy from the Bay Area and be yond. Rising out of San Francisco’s influential comedy history and vibrant contemporary comedy scene, SF Sketchfest has grown to become one of the premier comedy festivals in the country. Previous years’ lineups read like a who’s who of humor: legends like Billy Crystal, underground favorites like Amy Sedaris and Patton Oswalt, and the casts of shows like Saturday Night Live and Arrested Development. Events include stand-up sets, improve shows, tributes, panel discussions, special screenings and more. Still need persuading? Check out our 6 reasons to laugh ’til it hurts at SF Sketchfest.

SPRING

St.

Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival (March)

The West Coast’s largest Irish event celebrating Irish history and culture, the annual San Francisco St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival, attracts some 100,000 revelers every year and is one of the city’s most popular events. The colorful festivities surrounding the pa rade will showcase Irish culture through live performances and entertainment, arts and crafts exhibitors, food and beverage concessions, children’s rides and inflatables, and non-profits booths representing the Irish community.

San Francisco International Film Festival (SFFILM) (April)

San Francisco’s picturesque streets have been the backdrop for numerous films, from Bullitt to Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo. There are plenty of ways to feed your inner movie buff, but attending the San Francisco International Film Festival (SFFILM) tops the list. The longest-running film festival in the Americas, SFFILM screens acclaimed movies from around the globe, including world premieres, arthouse discoveries, documentaries, classic films and more. SFFILM is just one of many festivals geared toward cinephiles.

Cultural Events

Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival (April)

San Francisco’s Japantown neighbor hood is the oldest of the three remaining Japantowns in the U.S. There’s no better time to visit than in April, when the candy-pink cherry blossoms—and the neighborhood’s rich culture—are in full bloom. Held over two weekends, the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival features a parade, traditional Japanese music and dance performances, bazaars and more. While you’re here, spend some time exploring the top attractions in Japantown, from fragrant food markets to the iconic Peace Pagoda. Follow our guide to the Cherry Blossom Festival and learn everything you need to know about the Cherry Blossom Festival before your visit.

SUMMER

Union Street Festival (June)

Between Pacific Heights and the Marina lies Cow Hollow, a neighborhood that was once used to feed cattle and now feeds plenty of visitors and locals alike. There’s no bad time to take a stroll down Union St. (It is one of your best bets for dining and bar-hopping), but early June might be the best. You’ll get to experience all the food, music, and family-friendly activities that the neighborhood has to offer.

Haight-Ashbury Street Fair (June)

How Weird Street Fair (May)

Oddballs unite and freak flags fly at How Weird, a celebration of art and creativity put on by the World Peace Through Technology Organization. It’s been described as the urban cousin of Burning Man, but this freewheeling fair defies definition. You’ll find everything from an open-air Art Alley to multiple music stages to local food vendors, all centered around a new theme.

The Summer of Love never quite ended in San Francisco’s Haight Ashbury neighborhood, and the spirit of that summer lives on at this community-oriented street fair. Browse through 200 local vendors selling art, clothing, crafts and foods, plus live music and non-profits promoting their causes. Take some time to explore the Haight’s Victorian architecture and eclectic independent shops, many of which will make you feel like you’ve stepped right back into 1967.

North Beach Festival (June)

Considered one of the country’s original outdoor festivals, the North Beach Festival celebrates the historic North Beach, the historically Italian neighborhood and the home of the famed beat generation. The festival site includes numerous quaint streets in the heart of the district including Grant Avenue, Green Street, Vallejo Street and Columbus Avenue.

Fillmore Jazz Festival (July)

Visit the neighborhood that was considered “the Harlem of the West” for an annual celebration of its storied jazz history. The Fillmore’s many music venues hosted the legends of the time, including Duke Ellington and Billie Holliday.

Outside Lands (August)

The San Francisco Sound, born in Haight-Ashbury and Golden Gate Park, forever changed the sonic landscape. That legacy lives on with Outside Lands, one of the most diverse music festivals in the country. Hopping from stage to stage, you may catch a mellow Bon Iver set, an LCD Sound system dance party or a hard-rocking Metallica performance—all in one day!

Cultural Events

FALL

Folsom Street Fair (September)

Open minds are a must for the Folsom Street Fair, the world’s largest event celebrating leather and BDSM cultures. Historically a centerpiece of San Francisco’s LGBTQ community, Folsom Street is where gay biker bars flourished in the 1960s and ’70s. You’ll see attendees dressed in their shiniest leather and latex fetishwear, or in nothing at all— clothing is optional at this festival. If you’ve never been before, you should definitely start by reading our guide to the Folsom Street Fair and the history of the Folsom Street Fair.

Fleet Week (October)

You’ll know it’s Fleet Week by the sound of Blue Angels buzzing overhead. More than a million people gather to watch aviators from the United States Navy’s flight demonstration squad perform flips, rolls and other stunts across Bay Area skies. There’s also a parade of ships and community events paying tribute to veterans and active members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Read our recommendations for the best places to stay for Fleet Week and where to watch the Blue Angels around San Francisco.

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass (October)

This free festival (that’s right: no tickets needed!) in Golden Gate Park has drawn the nimblest fingers in bluegrass since 2001. But as the name suggests, it’s not just about bluegrass. Conor Oberst, Gillian Welch and Emmylou Harris have all been known to play HSB, which is beloved for its advertising-free.

Castro Street Fair (October)

Founded by the late Harvey Milk as a protest against the discriminatory practices of local merchants, Castro Street Fair is one of the most important (and colorful) LGBTQ events in San Francisco. Rainbow flags fly and thousands of revelers take to the Castro to dance, feast on street foods, shop local wares and rally around their community.

Italian Heritage Parade (October)

Often recognized as the City’s oldest civic event and the oldest continuing Italian-American parade and community organization, the celebration continues to be an icon on the San Francisco annual festival calendar. Originally named La Societa Italiana Mutua Beneficenza, the Italian Heritage Parade the festivities grew to include a formal Grand Ball, a representation of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, and a city-wide celebration of heritage and culture. You can expect to see handcrafted floats celebrating San Francisco Bay Area business, community groups and Italian organizations, and noted area Italian-Americans, with local high school Italian clubs and bands.

Litquake (October)

We San Franciscans are proud of our literary roots. Everyone from Mark Twain to Jack Kerouac to Maya Angelou has found inspiration here, and City Lights Bookstore helped proliferate the counterculture ideas of the 1950s and ’60s. Litquake keeps that literary flame lit, with ten days of poetry, panel discussions and author appearances across 160 venues. Read all about Litquake from the founders themselves and discover our five tips.

Illuminate SF Festival of Light (November–December)

Always a city of color and light, San Francisco cranks up the kilowatts during Illuminate SF Festival of Light. This city-wide event features nearly 40 installations in 17 neighborhoods, turning parks, bridges and buildings into bright, shining masterpieces. Feast your eyes on images from past festivals and read more about illuminated buildings.

Resources

www.missywinssf.com/blog/12-popu lar-architectural-styles-in-san-francisco

www.expat.com/en/guide/north-ameri ca/usa/san-francisco/20262-adjustingto-the-local-culture-in-san-francisco. html www.sfist.com/2016/09/27/the_best_ quotes_about_san_francisco/ www.wisefamousquotes.com/quotesabout-culture-shock/ www.localcultureconnections.com/ san-francisco-menu www.theculturetrip.com/north-america/ usa/california/articles/top-10-non-tour isty-things-to-do-in-san-francisco/

www.kidadl.com/articles/best-sanfrancisco-quotes-about-the-goldengate-city www.sftravel.com/article/san-francis co-cultural-festivals-and-events-guide

www.thepinnaclelist.com/articles/ golden-gate-city-life-top-5-education al-cultural-activities-san-francisco/