Great San Francisco Events to Enjoy this Autumn
Although the summer months have come to an end and autumn is now taking over, there are still several ways you can get out and enjoy the city. Just because fall is here doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the pretty weather until winter comes around. San Francisco and the surrounding area will play host to quite a few fascinating and fun fall festivals for you and your family to enjoy.
So now that it’s time for the leaves to turn, get your family and friends together and soak up the culture this great city has to offer!
Polk Street Blues Festival
One of many music festivals held in the Bay Area this fall, the Polk Street Blues Festival is here for those that love the blues. Starting Saturday, September 27th, you’ll be able to check out three great blues performances by the likes of Bay Area Blues Society, Terry Odabi, Paula Harris, Tommy Bean Band, and the Jay Bonet Band. The following day, the 28th, you’ll also be able to see Consonance, Richie Dradalho, Bobbie Webb and Papa’s Garage as well as Kyle Jester Band, Frankie G and the Conviction, and Hothouse Blues Band Jam. There are two different stages this year, so no matter what time of day it is, you’ll be treated to some fantastic music.
What festival would be complete without food? While they haven’t quite finalized the vendors for the festival this year, last year they had such great options as Aroma Concessions with their fantastic BBQ oysters, smoked turkey legs, and chicken kabobs as well as Kama United LLC with their great Indian fare. In addition to great music and delicious food, there will also be community booths, a farmer’s market, and activities for the kids. This makes it a great day out for the whole family.
Castro Street Fair
Founded by the original “Mayor of the Castro”, Harvey Milk, the Castro Street Fair celebrates diversity in the city on a grand scale. There is so much going on at this street festival, that you may have a hard time checking everything out. Head over to the intersection of Market and Castro on October the 5th for a fully day of fun.
There are so many exciting live performances this year, that there is sure to be something for everyone. For the country music lover in your group, head over to Castro Alley for some upbeat country and western dancing. Everyone will get their boot-scootin’ on in the parking lot behind the Castro Theater.
If your music tastes swing more towards the electronic genre, then Dance Alley is the place for you. Four different local DJs will be playing some of the best tunes to get you moving. Starting at 12:30pm with Juanita More! And Sidekick and rounding the day out at 4:30 with Billy Lace, these performances will be in the parking lot behind Magnet at 18th and Collingwood.
For something truly unique and different, Barnaby’s World of Wonderment will be bringing their take on carnival wonderment. In addition to the usual clowns, acrobats, and jugglers, you’ll also have the opportunity to see The Bearded Lady from Babylon. Be sure to try your hand at Bacon, Babes & Bingo for your chance to spin the wheel of destiny!
We haven’t forgotten about the great food that a lot of people come to these street fairs for. In fact, this year, you may find it hard to get home after filling up on everything from ice cream to BBQ. Be sure to come with a healthy appetite, because you may find it hard to turn down some of the great offerings this year.
Make this fall a time for family and friends and get out of the house for one of these great festivals. The Bay Area is home to some incredibly diverse forms of entertainment and these are just a few. Load up the kids and head out for a great fall festival that only San Francisco can provide!
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