Fall in San Francisco is the sweet spot — tourists are dwindling, the weather is just right, and the parks are throwing their own parties. And I’m not just talking about a lazy afternoon with a book and a blanket (although, honestly, that’s never a bad idea).
From impromptu piano concerts to full-blown galas, September and October are packed with events that’ll make you wonder why you ever considered leaving the city this fall.
Flower Piano
When: September 13–22, 2024
Where: San Francisco Botanical Garden, Golden Gate Park
More details
At Flower Piano, you can’t take a wrong turn without stumbling upon a piano tucked into the greenery, begging to be played. Whether you’re a concert pianist or someone who thinks “Chopsticks” counts as a song, this event makes everyone feel like a star.
Highlights this year include the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra, while Vanessa the Robot — an animatronic puppet belting out pop songs — keeps things quirky. The special Opening Night Celebration on September 12, features Alejandro Del Valle & Orquesta La Moderna Tradición. For the free performances, San Francisco residents can breeze in with proof of residency, while non-residents can snag tickets for $13 to $18.
Party for the Parks
When: Sept. 21, 2024 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: China Basin Park
More details and tickets
Picture this: live music, delicious food, and plenty of cocktails — all with sweeping views of the waterfront. The annual gala hosted by San Francisco Parks Alliance is not just a party for a good cause, it’s a night of dancing and celebrating with some of the city’s most passionate park enthusiasts.
They’re shaking up the location this year with the party now at China Basin Park. I liked the 2023 vibe at One Sansome but this feels like a good transition; China Basin’s got the beauty of the waterfront, the buzz of being close to a major sports hub, but it also offers space to spread out and enjoy the views of San Francisco.
Every gala has a different flavor to it; This one I remember as a good place to say hello to many San Francisco movers and shakers in local politics. I caught up briefly with District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, who loves working a good look in between all her important work for San Francisco. Also spotted Scott Weiner and Assemblymember Phil Ting.
Last year’s dress code was green, but this time break out some sunset colored cocktail attire to match the hues in the sky.
Sounds of the Street concert series
When: September 14 through November 2024
Where: India Basin Shoreline Park
More details
Free live music with waterfront views? Yes, please. Sounds of the Street brings you weekend concerts and workshops that feel like a little vacation without ever leaving the city. Expect everything from smooth jazz to indie jams.
I think this sounds like a good chance to check out something new in San Francisco; the first Sounds of the Street kicked off last year, and I didn’t see much reported on it, so it could be like a hidden gem just for you. The series is hosted by India Basin Shoreline Park, which is adjacent to the upcoming massive 64-acre project that will feature new trails, gardens, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities, along with restored natural habitats and wetlands to promote environmental sustainability.
IN A LANDSCAPE: Classical Music in the Wild
Where: Crissy Field
When: September 13, 2024 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
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This is a live classical concert series that you hear through wireless headphones while surrounded by the stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay. But you won’t be inside a concert hall — here, you’re free to roam, take in the scenery, and enjoy music that feels like it’s coming straight from the landscape itself.
In a Landscape was inspired by composer John Cage’s concept of music blending into nature. It was created by Portland-based pianist Hunter Noack and involves taking a Steinway grand piano to natural settings where the audience experiences the music through wireless headphones. So it’s sorta like a cousin of Flower Piano.
I’m a little disappointed to not see a lineup on its Eventbrite, but I’m sure the music will be lovely. Tickets are $44.
OMI Mid-Autumn Festival
When: September 14, 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Oceanview Playground at the Minnie & Lovie Ward Recreation Center
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The Mid-Autumn Festival event is all about tradition, with mooncakes, crafts, and stories that’ll immerse you in the cultural richness of this holiday. Although it’s only in its third year, this festival has quickly become a local favorite. There’s hands-on activities like lantern-making, traditional music performances, and storytelling sessions for children. Whether you’re bringing the whole family or just popping by, this is a sweet, low-key way to honor the season.
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
When: October 4–6, 2024, concerts at various times all day
Where: Golden Gate Park
More details
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass is basically San Francisco’s love letter to live music. Every October, Golden Gate Park turns into a haven for folk, bluegrass, and Americana fans, with everyone from festival regulars to first-timers camping out on blankets, ready to groove. The best part? It’s free — meaning you can spend all your money on artisanal snacks instead. Don’t forget your sunscreen and a blanket, because you’ll want to stay all day.
As we ease into fall, San Francisco’s parks will help us forget all about that endless summer fog. Whether you’re looking to be serenaded by classical music, celebrate with mooncakes, or just soak in some free live tunes, the city’s green spaces are where it’s all happening.
Saul Sugarman is editor in chief of The Bold Italic.
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