Best Bay Area Events 5/6-5/26

Come Out to Valencia LIVE!

Valencia LIVE! is making Valencia St. jump to life every 2nd Thursday, starting May 8th. Three stages of LIVE music, a free clothing swap, artmaking, and more! Savor local food and delicious drinks! Shop with amazing small businesses and at the American Indian Cultural District IndigenizeSF Craft Market. Free with RSVP!

…Ready For It?
by Vanessa Gil, Arts & Events Editor

Festival season is upon us! Mill Valley Music Fest is this weekend. I’m going to BottleRock in just a couple of weeks. Outside Lands just announced that one of my fave bands, Vampire Weekend, will be performing same day opening AND closing sets. Yessss… I’m so ready for the fashion, the music, the food. Bring it on! Here’s what else I’m looking forward to the week of 5/6 and beyond.

Our Merch

You are Frisco as Fuck!

Herb Caen was right about a lot of things, but he was wrong about the word Frisco. If you agree, this is the perfect shirt for you. Get yours right here.

Our Partners’ Events

Chew on This
5/13 | The Commons at KQED | 2601 Mariposa St, SF | 7 p.m. | $30.10

In this game show from Check, Please! Bay Area producer Cecilia Phillips, foodies participate in challenges where they must answer, analyze and eat their way to the top of the food pyramid. Your ticket includes tasting portions of the theme food…which in this edition is: maiz! We’ll learn about all parts of this native food — fresh corn, sweet corn, grain, masa — and eat tostadas and drink atole from chef Emmanuel Galvan from Bolita Masa. Get your tickets here.

Special Offer! $49 Orchestra Seats for PARADE at the Orpheum
5/20-6/8 | Orpheum Theatre | 1192 Market St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $49-$224

Join BroadwaySF for a special Jewish Community Night on Tues, May 20, featuring a performance of the Tony-winning musical PARADE and a special post-show talkback with cast members. Click here to unlock $49 Orchestra seats for that night! Winner of the 2023 Tony Award® for Best Revival of a Musical, PARADE has been proclaimed as “a work of art! As commanding as any musical revival to hit Broadway in years” (Deadline).

This Week’s Events 5/6-5/12

Tuesday 5/6

Swan Lake
5/6 | Palace of Fine Arts | 3301 Lyon St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $55-$115

Experience the world’s most in-demand ballet, “Swan Lake,” presented by Classical Arts Entertainment and performed by the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine.

Chloe Moriondo
5/6 | The Independent | 628 Divisadero St, SF | 8 p.m. | $32.42-$97.82

Hailed as “one of indie pop’s brightest stars” (Teen Vogue), Chloe Moriondo begins her next chapter with the wistful, pulsing single “Shoreline,” and more to come in 2025. An artist whose diary-like honesty has earned her a global fanbase of millions, the Michigan-native’s 2022 album SUCKERPUNCH was heralded by the sticky-sweet anthem “Fruity,” and marked a bold leap forward from the understated indie-pop and jittery pop-punk of her 2021 offering, Blood Bunny. 

James Tom: A Work In Progress
5/6 | Punch Line San Francisco | 444 Battery St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $27.65-$40.20, 18+

James Tom (he/they) is a stand-up comic, actor, and writer, gleefully providing the trans, queer, Asian American, millennial twink perspective that everyone never knew they wanted.

Small Business Week Pop-Up Shop
5/6 | SF City Hall | 1 Doctor Carlton B Goodlett Place, SF | 11 a.m. | Free

Take in the splendor of City Hall while shopping for your friends, family and yourself! The annual Small Business Week City Hall pop-up shop is a great place to find a gift for Mother’s Day, the graduate, a special gift, or a tasty treat. Featuring goods from over 45 local makers!


Wednesday 5/7

Hippo Campus
5/7 | Fox Theater | 1807 Telegraph Ave, Oakland | 7 p.m. Doors | $50.60-$132.50

Hippo Campus is an American indie rock band from Saint Paul, Minnesota. The band’s musical style is influenced by UK artists such as Little Comets and King Krule. The band members include Jake Luppen (lead vocals, guitar), Nathan Stocker (lead guitar, vocals), Zach Sutton (bass, keyboard), Whistler Allen (drummer, vocals), and DeCarlo Jackson (trumpet, percussion, bass).

Mayday Parade
5/7 | The Regency Ballroom | 1300 Van Ness Ave, SF | 7 p.m. | $54.91-$77.83

The sixth studio album from Tallahassee-based rock band Mayday Parade, Sunnyland finds the band both reflecting on the past and pushing toward the future. The band recorded the album with longtime producers Zack Odom and Kenneth Mount and also teamed up with Grammy nominated producer John Feldmann (blink-182, Panic! At the Disco) and Howard Benson (Of Mice & Men, My Chemical Romance) for the very first time. The result is an album built on impassioned vocals, sing-along choruses, and deeply heartfelt lyrics.

Venjent
5/7 | DNA Lounge | 375 11th St, SF | 7 p.m. | $23-$30, 18+

Venjent is all about massive basslines, cheeky remixes, and unfiltered vibes. With tracks like Open The Door and Rave to Love, his sound blends humor, heart, and pure drum & bass chaos. Think every day sounds flipped into dancefloor anthems, wrapped in a signature London swagger. It’s all energy, all fun, all the time – a proper rave with a twist. Don’t miss the chance to join the vibe tribe. The bass is calling!

Small Business Fest
5/7 | Downtown SF | 333 Market St, SF | 11:30 a.m. | Free

SF New Deal and Wells Fargo, in partnership with Mayor Daniel Lurie and the Office of Economic and Workforce Development, invite you to celebrate the unique small businesses that are the heartbeat of San Francisco. Join us and our partners at La Cocina and Main Street Launch for a market at Wells Fargo Plaza, located at 333 Market St in downtown San Francisco. The event will feature unique food and retail offerings, music by local DJs, special guest speakers, and delightful giveaways.


Thursday 5/8

Ashley Gavin
5/8-5/10 | Cobb’s Comedy Club | 915 Columbus Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $43.80-$74.45, 18+

Ashley Gavin has been featured on Comedy Central, Netflix, Just For Laughs, and more. Her critically acclaimed YouTube special has amassed over 1 million views. She’s best known for her viral social media clips, where her bold, raw audience interactions, authenticity, and relentless energy set her apart. Her podcast, “We’re Having Gay Sex” (don’t worry, the show for everyone), regularly tops international charts and was named one of the best podcasts of the year by Paste Magazine. While Ashley is popular for her crowd work, this show will feature primarily written material–with her signature edge intact.

NightLife x Carnaval SF
5/8 | California Academy of Sciences | 55 Music Concourse Dr, SF | 6 p.m. | $25, 21+

Carnaval SF is back to take over NightLife! Join our colorful celebration of music, dance, and artistry from Latin American, Caribbean, and Afrodiasporic cultures. Experience the joy of Carnaval throughout the museum with live performances, a pop-up mercado (marketplace), and more!

Valencia LIVE!
5/8 | Valencia St between 16th and 19th St, SF | 5 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP, All ages

See you in the streets for Valencia LIVE! A FREE, all-ages monthly neighborhood celebration spotlighting local businesses, live music, and art. On Valencia Street between 16th and 19th Streets—in the American Indian Cultural District—the second Thursday of every month from May to October of 2025 from 5-10pm.

My Wildest Bay Area Story with Fools Circle
5/8 | The Commons at KQED | 2601 Mariposa St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $18.65-$24.38

My Wildest Story is a national live storytelling and comedic trauma-bonding event series from the pop-up comedy collective Fools Circle. Featuring some of the Bay Area’s favorite comedians and storytellers, this edition showcases crazy and jaw-dropping personal experiences that could only happen here. Each presenter will tell a three- to five-minute story that will have audiences laughing, shouting and celebrating local culture.

Friday 5/9

Joan Crawford Superstar
5/9-5/18 (Weekends) | Shelton Theater | 533 Sutter St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $39-$49 

“Jam-packed 80 minutes…exciting theater!” – Coast to Coast Reviews

A fast-paced new play about the “best flapper” and “Queen of the Movies” before anyone called her “Mommie Dearest”! Joan was a woman of contradictions, and this play is about them both! Follow Young Joan forward in time from 1925, and Mature Joan backwards in time from 1977 death until their stories converge. Meet gay movie star William Haines, Clark Gable, MGM founder Louis B Mayer, and more! Arrive early to enjoy our interactive Joan Crawford Exhibit, showcasing genuine vintage items and visit the bar. All patrons receive a full-color booklet program. Showtimes are Fridays 7:30 p.m., Saturdays 2 p.m. & 7:30pm, and Sundays 2pm.

Use code BROKE to get 50% off ticket purchase. 

Angela LaFlamme
5/9 | The Rite Spot | 2099 Folsom St, SF | 7 p.m. | Free

Angela serves up a spicy and delicious musical cocktail. From Bessie Smith to Fats Waller, Billie Holiday and Nina Simone, to more contemporary revamped versions of The White Stripes, The Cure, and Tom waits, and her own original tunes. Come rendezvous for an evening of delightful connection and musical magic.

Celebrating 60 Years of the Grateful Dead with Jazz Mafia’s
5/9 | Grace Cathedral | 1100 California St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $30-$40

This loving homage performed in the Gothic grandeur of Grace Cathedral, reimagined as a psychedelic ballroom of the 60s with a Liquid Light Show provided by Mad Alchemy, will make you fall in love with Grateful Dead’s music all over again – or for the first time.

Peter Bjorn and John
5/9 | Great American Music Hall | 859 O’Farrell St, SF | 8 p.m. | $32.50-$35

Acclaimed Swedish indie-pop band Peter Bjorn and John are bringing their iconic album Writer’s Block back to life on a highly anticipated U.S. tour. This marks the band’s first stateside tour in six years and commemorates the 19th anniversary of their breakthrough LP, originally released in 2006.

Trixie Mattel
5/9 | Fox Theater | 1807 Telegraph Ave, Oakland | 7 p.m. Doors | $52.75-$123

Trixie Mattel is a drag performer, author, and recording artist best known for competing in the seventh season of RuPaul’s Drag Race and the winner of season three of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars. She has traveled the world touring with her hilarious comedy sets and has appeared on television and film, released her own make-up brand, and co-wrote a book. She currently co-hosts the hit podcast “The Bald and the Beautiful” with Katya and appears on the award-winning web series “UNHhhh” serving her unique brand of humor and over-the-top doll-like beauty.

Fern Brady: I Gave You Milk To Drink
5/9 | Bimbo’s 365 Club | 1025 Columbus Ave, SF | 8 p.m. | $44.25-$55.06

Fern Brady has recently released her very own Netflix special Autistic Bikini Queen to high acclaim and been named one of Deadline’s 15 Comedian’s To Watch (the only non-American on the list). She also won the prestigious Sky Arts Award for Comedy. Fern is the author of Sunday Times best selling memoir STRONG FEMALE CHARACTER whose previous show POWER AND CHAOS was broadcast on BBC1. What happens when you get everything you want and it’s not enough? This is a great show to come and see if you are a fan of the Scottish comedian Fern Brady.

David Sedaris
5/9 & 5/10 | Uptown Theatre Napa | 1350 3rd St, Napa | 8 p.m. | $54-$64

David Sedaris is one of America’s pre-eminent humor writers. He is a master of satire and one of today’s most observant writers.

Bulletproof Cabaret
5/9 | Kilowatt Bar | 3160 16th St, SF | 9 p.m. | $24.72-$47.38, 21+

Straight from London and Berlin to the Bay! Miss Banbury Cross and Retropolis bring you a gasoline soaked, whiskey fuelled Strip o’ Rama; Inspired by the bump and grind Burlesque legends of the 50s, Grindhouse cult classics and good ol’ fashioned rock and roll. We’ve wrangled together the hottest, queerest, international award-winning talent from across the Bay and beyond.

Spring Teacher Night
5/9 | Oakland Museum of California | 1000 Oak St, Oakland | 4:30 p.m. | Free

OMCA is excited to celebrate teachers during our annual Spring Teacher Night, an evening for teachers to feel inspired and celebrated while enjoying the exciting energy of Friday Nights at OMCA—all with complimentary Museum access. During a fun and fast-paced curriculum slam, learn how OMCA’s Teacher Fellows created gallery and classroom lesson plans that explore art as a tool for social and political engagement. Discover fresh ideas as you hear about what the Fellows prototyped with their students and what they learned along the way.

Saturday 5/10

510 Day: Joshua Walters, Money B, Kevvy Kev, Vj Gabi, Syzygy, & Drasmatic
5/10 | The New Parish | 1743 San Pablo Ave, Oakland | 8 p.m. | $22.62, 18+

Comedian Joshua Walters returns to Oakland with a slue of local hip-hop luminaries. Including Kevvy Kev, of KZSU’s “The Drumm”, the world’s longest running radio show dedicated to underground hip hop classics. Appearing is Oakland’s own, VJ Gabi, San Francisco’s Szyzgy…and straight out of HAYWARD by way for TEXAS, Drasmatic. 7pm are sign sign-ups for the open mic element of the show. As a special tribute to Shock G. of Digital Underground, Money B. will perform classics from the early 90’s.

Photocollage Workshop
5/10 | San Francisco Arts Commission Gallery | 401 Van Ness Ave, SF | 1 p.m. | Free

Metaphors of Recent Times exhibiting artist Liz Steketee leads a photocollage workshop in which she introduces the use of mixed media to enhance the photographic image.

‘Buttons On!’ & ‘A Roadmap to Stardust’ Opening Day and Artist Meet & Greet
5/10 | Museum of Craft and Design | 2569 3rd St, SF | 12 p.m. | $8-$10, All ages

The Museum of Craft and Design invites you to a special opening day of A Roadmap to Stardust and Beau McCall: Buttons On!. Meet the visiting artists and guest curators who will be onsite to answer any questions you may have about the exhibitions and their work. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to connect with the creative minds behind the exhibitions!

Mill Valley Music Festival 2025
5/10-5/11 | Friends Field | 180 Camino Alto, Mill Valley | 12 p.m. | $71+, All ages

The Mill Valley Music Festival 2025 lineup is here! Experience two incredible days of live music in beautiful Mill Valley, CA featuring Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Gary Clark Jr., The Crosby Collective, Monophonics, and many more!

‘Arts & Eats’ Piedmont Ave Market
5/10 | Pomella and Dona Restaurants | 3770 Piedmont Ave, Oakland | 11 a.m. | Free

Mother’s Day SATURDAY fun !! Join us for a festive day filled with local art, delicious food, and activities, and FREE GIFT WRAPPING! Browse through unique artworks created by talented local artists while enjoying the amazing food of Pomella and Dona restaurants, having fun with creative activities, taking a chance to win something special for Mom ( or you!)  in our fun raffle. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to support local artisans and indulge in a day of creativity and culinary delights. See you there!

Focus Fest
5/10 | Radium Runway | 2151 Ferry Pt, Alameda | 12 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Alameda’s first climate photography festival launches with a fun-filled community celebration. Radium Runway transforms into an open-air gallery showcasing national and international works. Enjoy climate-friendly cuisines curated by partner Erika Hazel, aka the Bizerkeley Vegan. Catch artist talks on the hour every hour or take a walking tour of the incredible facilities of DOER Marine. Try your hand at collage, foam relief printing, and other family friendly activities.

Taiwanese American Cultural Festival
5/10 | Union Square | Geary, Powell, Post, & Stockton St, SF | 10 a.m. | Free, All ages

The West Coast’s largest Taiwanese American celebration is back and in person on Saturday, May 10th in San Francisco’s Union Square! Join us from 10AM – 4PM for a free and family-friendly festival showcasing Taiwanese culture, food, entertainment, activities and more. Since 1993, the Taiwanese American Cultural Festival has grown into an annual landmark event for the Bay Area community, drawing thousands of visitors from all over the world to experience Taiwan’s unique cultural heritage and to recognize the contributions of Taiwanese Americans today.


Sunday 5/11

Union Square in Bloom: Mother’s Day Fashion Show
5/11 | Union Square | 333 Post St, SF | 1 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a vibrant afternoon of fashion, music, and delicious bites! Catch the debut of the 2025 Bloom Dress by Jad Racha, and enjoy a live performance by Moonalice. Sip handcrafted cocktails from Cocktail on the Fly, and savor bites from Nucha Empanadas and Oliva Charcuterie.

Mother’s Day In Full Bloom At The Westin St. Francis
5/11 | The Westin St. Francis | 335 Powell St, SF | 1 p.m. | $95-$160

The Westin St. Francis will host a sophisticated Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea on the 32nd floor, featuring artisan teas, delicate tea sandwiches, freshly baked pastries, seasonal berries with Devonshire cream, and an array of petit fours. Set against sweeping views of the San Francisco skyline, the event will be enhanced with live music and blooming floral décor. As a special interactive experience, guests can create fresh floral bouquets with guidance from Diosa Blooms, a local women-owned floral design studio. Children will receive floral crowns, making it a memorable day for the whole family.

Annual 84th Mother’s Day Rose Show – Art of the Rose
5/11 | Hall of Flowers | 1199 9th Ave, SF | 12:30 p.m. | Free

Please join us this year at our popular, indoor, rose show at the historic County Fair Building Hall of Flowers in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco. On display will be a variety of roses including hybrid teas, floribundas, grandifloras, shrubs (for those who love David Austin roses), old garden roses, and more grown in San Francisco. We will also have rose arrangements on display designed by our members. This year’s arrangement theme is “THE ART OF THE ROSE,” which will inform the design of the arrangements. Consulting Rosarians will be on hand to answer your questions. Our popular book, “Growing in the San Francisco Bay Area and Other Maritime-Influenced Climates,” will also be for sale. Come join us and bring your mom.

MILF: A Mother’s Day Cabaret
5/11 | OASIS | 298 11th St, SF | 6 p.m. | $25-$40, 21+

Join hostess Elsa Touche for a one-of-a-kind cabaret — local drag stars, comedy, music, and more — celebrating moms, stepmoms, dog moms, cat moms, drag moms, friend-group moms, bonus moms, and maternal and/or MILF-y figures of all types! Featuring Katya Smirnoff-Skyy, BeBe Sweetbriar, Curveball, Lady Satan, Natasha Muse, and more! 

Theatre Flamenco of San Francisco Tríptico
5/11 | Dance Mission Theater | 3316 24th St, SF | 7 p.m. | $27.27

Tríptico is a captivating flamenco performance that blends the passion and tradition of flamenco with the innovative spirit of contemporary dance. Artistic Director and flamenco dancer Carola Zertuche leads this dynamic collaboration, where three dancers—Zertuche, contemporary artist Nol Simonse, and flamenco dancer Nevarez Encinias—explore the intersections of movement, gender, and expression.

Pickwick Vintage Show – Vintage Market
5/11 | Ferry Building | 1 Ferry Building, SF | 10 a.m. | Free

The Pickwick Vintage Show features over 70+ exhibitors from across California, featuring collections of vintage clothing, jewelry, accessories, textiles, findings, and inspiration of all kinds. Pickwick Vintage Show is a major source for collectors, connoisseurs, and the design community in search of vintage spanning all eras.

Brock & Spencer USA – Celebrating Mother’s Day with A Queer American Songbook
5/11 | The Chan National Queer Arts Center | 170 Valencia St, SF | 7 p.m. | $25-$50

The Chan National Queer Arts Center and SFIAF join forces in an uncharacteristically wholesome manner—celebrating Mother’s Day in the company of two of the nation’s greatest authorities on show tunes as they bring a distinctly queer perspective to the Great American Songbook. Vocalist Jason Brock and pianist Dee Spencer present a curated cabaret featuring selections from songwriters such as George Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Rogers & Hart, while sharing stories of the legendary LGBTQ+ performers who brought these songs to life over the years. More contemporary songs from the 1980s and 1990s will also be included, and audiences will be treated to the Queer Arts Center’s signature cabaret seating, bar service and other special Mother’s Day surprises.

Resilient Comedy (Mother’s Day show)
5/11 | Eclectic Box SF | 446 Valencia St, SF | 7 p.m. | $25-$50

Resilient Comedy is a new monthly comedy series produced by Lisa Geduldig of Kung Pao Kosher Comedy and other Bay Area comedy shows. Staying sane in current times is going to mean taking time to experience joy and laughter. The shows will also raise awareness and funds for organizations doing life-saving work. Featuring Shanti Charan, Joe Klocek, Ian Williams, and Lisa Geduldig.


Monday 5/12

Haight Laughsbury Comedy Show
5/12 | O’Reilly’s Irish Pub | 1840 Haight St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | Free

Welcome to Haight Laughsbury, the weekly comedy show that keeps the spirit of Haight-Ashbury weird, funny, and very much alive. Expect bold stand-up, fresh storytelling, and that unfiltered creative energy the neighborhood’s always been known for. Whether you’re bringing a date, your friends, or just your slightly hungover self, Haight Laughsbury is the perfect way to shake off the start-of-week and actually look forward to Monday.

Jazz Is Dead: Ebo Taylor + Pat Thomas
5/12 | The UC Theatre | 2036 University Ave, Berkeley | 7 p.m. Doors | $47.25-$393.50

Ghanaian guitarist, composer, arranger, bandleader, and producer Ebo Taylor has been a vital presence in African music for more than half-a-century. His own musical projects combined traditional Ghanaian music with Afro-beat, jazz, and funk, creating a trademark sound. Pat Thomas is a Ghanaian vocalist and songwriter famed for his work in the highlife bands of Ebo Taylor and his own recordings of Afrobeat and Afro-pop. 

The Week of 5/13-5/19

Tuesday 5/13

Ali Wong: Work In Progress
5/13-5/14 | San Jose Improv | 62 S Second St, SJ | 7 p.m. Doors | $113.80 – $165.30, 21+

Fresh off her Golden Globe win for “Single Lady,” Ali Wong returns to her stand-up roots to workshop raw and unfiltered new material in an intimate club setting.

The Go-Go’s
5/13 | The Warfield | 982 Market St, SF | 8 p.m. | $79.99-$120.95

From their halcyon days as America’s sweethearts to their current status as superstars who pioneered a genre, The Go-Go’s preside over an amazing three-decade reign as high pop priestesses. The internationally-loved pop hitmakers helped cement the foundation of the early 80’s pop-rock sound without the aid of outside composers, session players or, most importantly, creative compromise. From their very first show, The Go-Go’s sang and played their own songs, offering five feisty role models for a generation of ready-to-rock girls and good, hooky fun for pop-loving guys.

Ryan Adams
5/13 | Fox Theater | 1807 Telegraph Ave, Oakland | 7 p.m. Doors | $56.25-$239.40

Ryan Adams is a seven-time Grammy nominated singer-songwriter praised as “one of rock’s most talented songwriters”. Formerly fronting rock-americana groups Whiskeytown and Ryan Adams & the Cardinals, Adams has the ability to connect with audiences across a variety of different mediums.


Wednesday 5/14

Mick Foley
5/14 | Cobb’s Comedy Club | 915 Columbus Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $50.50-$170, 18+

Universally acclaimed as one of the most entertaining talkers in professional wrestling, Mick has decided to unleash his verbal talents on the world of stand-up comedy. In his one man show, Mick finds that escaping the worldwide shadow of WWE and one infamous match in particular has proven to be the greatest challenge of his twenty-seven-year career. Along the way he also finds time to explain that his rollercoaster ride through the world of professional wrestling has given him a unique insight into subjects as diverse as politics, pornography and the quest for world peace.

Juno Birch
5/14 | Bimbo’s 365 Club | 1025 Columbus Ave, SF | 8 p.m. | $44.25-$140.55, 21+

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s Juno Birch the absolutely stunning outlandish blue alien who’d love nothing more than to speak to the manager of Earth. Juno travel’s the Earth and probes the absurdity of life on this planet, in her one-woman stand-up comedy tour ‘Probed.’ Expect jumbo hair, space age fashion and hysterical jokes from the extra-terrestrial icon all the way from the distant planet of Manchester as she shares her struggles of life through the lens of her little pink sunglasses.

Dave East
5/14 | The New Parish | 1743 San Pablo Ave, Oakland | 8 p.m. | $36.79, 18+

Dave East is an American rapper. He gained attention in 2014 with his mixtape “Black Rose”. His music is regularly featured on various radio stations, and he is considered a staple within New York’s new-school of hip hop.

Nick Cave
5/14 | Bill Graham Civic Auditorium | 99 Grove St, SF | 8 p.m. | $101.30+

Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds are bringing the Wild God Tour to Bill Graham Civic Auditorium on May 14^th. Don’t miss the band’s first North American shows since 2018! 

Thursday 5/15

Nintendo Store Grand Opening
5/15-5/18 | Union Square | 331 Powell St, SF | 12:30 p.m. | RSVP Required

On May 15, Nintendo will open the doors to Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO, its second official store in the United States. Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO is set to bring smiles to guests of all ages and visitors from near and far. In addition to game systems and games, Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO will offer a unique shopping experience filled with Nintendo’s characters, worlds and exclusive products including accessories, apparel, home goods and souvenirs available only at this location.

An Evening with Kruk & Kuip: An SF Sketchfest Tribute
5/15 | Sydney Goldstein Theater | 333 Hayes St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $30-$71

SF Sketchfest is honored to pay tribute to baseball icons Mike Krukow and Duane Kuiper in a rare on-stage celebration of the legendary broadcasting duo. For generations, Kruk and Kuip have brought wit and wisdom — not to mention their trademark camaraderie — to SF Giants fans and beyond. So, grab some pine (or get in the squaaaat) and join them for this one-night-only evening of lively conversation and Q&A.

Eddie Ifft
5/15-5/17 | Punch Line SF | 444 Battery St, SF | 8 p.m. | $27.65-$42.50, 18+

Known for his quick wit and caustic-style of comedy, Eddie Ifft – a critically acclaimed comic, has a habit of speaking first and then thinking, which gets him in trouble – a lot. Eddie has proudly told jokes around the world to sold-out crowds. Eddie’s brand of humor can now be heard weekly on his podcast Talkin’ Sh*t with Jim Jefferies and Eddie Ifft and is gaining popularity and fans worldwide.

Madness
5/15 | Fox Theater | 1807 Telegraph Ave, Oakland | 7 p.m. Doors | $78.15+

Read the headlines and it’s hard not to conclude that the world has gone mad. Mad enough, in fact, to give North London’s finest twelve-legged quorum of Nutty Boys a run for their money. According to keyboard-wrangler Mike ‘Barso’ Barson, the title track to Madness’s lucky thirteenth full-length C’Est La Vie is “about these crazy times we’re living in, and how I just want to stay on my boat and not be a part of all this madness. But of course, I’m a member of a group called Madness. Perhaps we should have called ourselves ‘Sanity’…”

VHOOR
5/15 | The Midway | 900 Marin St, SF | 9 p.m. | $15-$25

VHOOR is redefining the global soundscape, bringing the heat of Brazilian baile funk to dancefloors worldwide. At just 26, he’s become a trailblazer in contemporary Brazilian music, seamlessly blending piseiro, brega-funk, hip hop, and Afro-diasporic rhythms into his signature style.


Friday 5/16

Murs
5/16 | Cornerstone | 2367 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley | 9 p.m. | $29.32-$33.43

A true rap icon from the sun-drenched streets of Los Angeles, bringing a raw and unfiltered voice to the culture of hip hop. With roots in the vibrant indie scene of the late 90’s and early aughts Murs stands as a testament to authenticity and lyrical brilliance. Currently he is making rounds on his last nationwide headlining tour, promoting his final album “Love and Rockets 3:16.” After almost 30 years of touring and releasing music, the husband and father of 4, is switching his focus to family.

Hyperdrive Kittens, Lady StarBeast, Right Proper
5/16 | Music City SF | 1353 Bush St, SF | 7 p.m. | $29

The Hyperdrive Kittens are a glitter-filled, punk-n-roll PARTY. With melodic fun catchy songs and a naughty lil attitude, these Kittens scratch out a blistering, playful, outrageously good time with a burlesque and Rocky Horror influenced show that’s all their own. Defying traditional genre and embodying idiosyncrasy, Oakland-based dark pop artists Ilana Magill, Marc Martell, and MJ Gurule are the forces behind Lady Starbeast. Ilana is the songwriter and delivers sultry, powerful vocals with operatic background harmonies, dark, eerie and intricate melodies and a wild, irreverent spirit. Dramatic electro-pop instrumentation and lyrics exploring the introspective particularities of mental health and the human condition bring listeners a raucous and haunting glimpse into the inner-workings of their minds and hearts.

TJ Borden / Mari Kawamura: Morton Feldman’s “Patterns in a Chromatic Field”
5/16 | The Lab | 2948 16th St, SF | 8 p.m. | $17

American composer and John Cage associate Morton Feldman composed a number of large-scale, lengthy works toward the end of his life. Patterns in a Chromatic Field, his 1981 duo for cello and piano, is a relatively concise 80 minutes, but encapsulates the quietly intense minimalism of this late period. T.J. Borden and Mari Kawamura perform this work alongside earlier pieces Durations 2, Film Music for JP, and Intersection 3.

Too Many Zooz
5/16 | The Independent | 628 Divisadero St, SF | 9 p.m. | $35.56, All ages

Self-described “Brass House” trio Too Many Zooz make manically kinetic instrumental music that combines avant-garde jazz, EDM, punk rock, and sundry other traditions into their own distinctive brand of high-energy dance music. A viral sensation since they first emerged as New York subway buskers in 2013, Too Many Zooz have evolved into a globally recognized phenomenon who tour often and produce YouTube videos that have garnered millions of views.

James Taylor & his All-Star Band
5/16 | Frost Amphitheater | 351 Lausen St, Stanford | 6:30 p.m. | $155-$218.89

As a recording and touring artist, James Taylor has touched people with his warm baritone voice and distinctive style of guitar-playing for more than 50 years, while setting a precedent to which countless young musicians have aspired. Over the course of his celebrated songwriting and performing career, he has sold more than 100 million albums, earning gold, platinum and multi-platinum awards since the release of his self-titled debut album in 1968.


Saturday 5/17

Jack London’s Greatest Hits – Bar & Food Crawl
5/17 | Jack London District | 333 Broadway, Oakland | 1 p.m. | $12.51+

Introducing: Jack London’s Greatest Hits Bar & Food Crawl—a daytime neighborhood takeover celebrating your favorite drinks, bites, and beats. Whether you’re a seasoned local or first-time visitor, this is your chance to experience the best of the best in Jack London—served up with a side of great music and community energy. Grab your crew, throw on your Greatest Hit of a Fit, and hit the streets.

Bay FC Soccer Game
5/17 | PayPal Park | 1123 Coleman Ave, San Jose | 7 p.m. | $18-$174

Bay FC take on Angel City FC at PayPal Park.

Dog Days
5/17 | Oracle Park | 24 Willie Mays Plaza, SF | 5 p.m. | $89-$94

Get ready for a tail-wagging good time at Oracle Park on May 17, 2025, as the San Francisco Giants host the Oakland Athletics for the annual Dog Days event! This special game invites dog lovers and their canine companions to enjoy America’s favorite pastime together. The event kicks off at 6:05 PM, but arrive early to participate in the pre-game dog parade around the warning track. Dress your pup in their best baseball-themed costume for a chance to win the costume contest!

Human vs. AI Tech Fair & Film Festival
5/17 | Plug & Play Tech Center | 440 N. Wolfe Rd, Sunnyvale | 11 a.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Experience a high-energy, hands-on celebration where cutting-edge technology meets human creativity. Engage with groundbreaking ideas, interactive exhibits, and a vibrant atmosphere filled with excitement. Step into the future and celebrate the power of innovation in a way that is engaging, inspiring, and unforgettable!

Break a Guinness World Record at the Gold Bar Whiskey Distillery!
5/17 | Gold Bar Whiskey Distillery Tasting Room | 1 Avenue of the Palms, SF | 2 p.m. | $0–$28.52

Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime event as we aim to set the Guinness World Record for Most Cocktails Shaken Simultaneously – previously set at 1,710! Hosted by San Francisco Giants legend and World Series Champion, Hunter Pence, this unforgettable day will be filled with music, food, drinks, and an epic moment in San Francisco history. Plus! A live performance from epic San Francisco cover band, Neon Velvet!

Sunday 5/18

Frequency Film Festival
5/18 | Great American Music Hall | 859 O’Farrell St, SF | 7 p.m. | $15-$25

The fourth edition of Frequency Film Festival highlights the art of musical scores and sound design in independent short films. Featuring a diverse range of genres, from thrillers to comedies, the festival celebrates independent filmmakers and composers who use sound to enhance storytelling. The night will include film screenings, live DJ sets, and a full bar.

Bay To Breakers
5/18 | San Francisco | Embarcadero to The Great Hwy | 8 a.m. | $99 to Register

This historic 12k through the streets of San Francisco is over 100 years in the making. It’s a race made for everyone, so dress up, bring your friends and be cheered on every step of the way by the city’s finest crowds. Pushing boundaries and breaking records since 1912 — it’s your turn to join the party.

Ok Go
5/18 | The Fillmore | 1805 Geary Blvd, SF | 8 p.m. | $63.20

OK Go is a Grammy-winning American rock band founded in 1998. They have released five studio albums and are known for their quirky music videos, which often feature elaborately choreographed dance sequences and practical effects.


Monday 5/19

Panda Bear
5/19 | The Chapel | 777 Valencia St, SF | 8 p.m. | $28-$30

Two decades since debuting as the masked and nicknamed drummer and vocalist of Animal Collective, Noah Lennox has led so many creative lives, navigated so many different styles, and been part of so many beloved recordings, that it can be easy to overlook just how consistent his creative vision has remained. From landmarks solo albums like 2007’s Person Pitch and 2015’s Panda Bear Meets the Grim Reaper, to breakthroughs with Animal Collective like 2004’s Sung Tongs and 2009’s Merriweather Post Pavilion, to his boundary-pushing collaborations with Daft Punk and Solange, Dean Blunt and Paramore, all of his work followed an instantly identifiable emotional throughline while influencing multiple generations and genres of artists.

Nils Frahm
5/19 | Fox Theater | 1807 Telegraph Ave, Oakland | 7 p.m. Doors | $78.15-$215.40

Having first come to prominence with delicate vignettes for piano, Frahm’s instrumental range has expanded to include a mountain of vintage synths and keyboard instruments. These include a custom-made organ as well as the final glass harmonica constructed by Gerhard Finkenbeiner, a master glassblower who, in the 1980s, resurrected the instrument – first invented by Benjamin Franklin in 1761 – and then died in 1999 in mysterious, still unresolved circumstances. Frahm’s grasp of dynamics and tension has likewise expanded, and not only does he reinvigorate his work during concerts for this wider range of possibilities, but he also keeps developing it as he tours.

The Week of 5/20-5/26

Tuesday 5/20

Simple Minds: Alive & Kicking Tour 2025
5/20 | Toyota Pavilion at Concord | 2000 Kirker Pass Rd, Concord | 7 p.m. | $35-$149.50

Simple Minds are a Scottish rock band formed in Glasgow in 1977, becoming best known internationally for their song “Don’t You. This tour marks their biggest live run in four decades, celebrating their iconic hits.

Mike Love & The Full Circle
5/20 | HopMonk Sebastopol | 230 Petaluma Ave, Sebastopol | 7 p.m. Doors | $32.50, 21+

Mike Love is a musician devoted to revolution through sound. He releases his music independently on his own Love Not War Records label, and his sound, while rooted in the spirituality and message-based music of roots reggae, fuses a variety of influences including progressive and classic rock, soul, blues, flamenco, jazz, classical, and more. Mike’s songs possess wisdom and seek to instill change, whether it be regarding issues of the environment, animal cruelty, or personal growth. They are about being conscious and mindful as human beings living among so many other life forms on this beautiful planet. For Mike, music is a form of healing, learning, and growing.

Wednesday 5/21

Grace VanderWaal
5/21 | Brick & Mortar Music Hall | 1710 Mission St, SF | 8 p.m. | $35.67-$144.79

Grace VanderWaal is an American singer-songwriter and actress. She is known for her distinctive voice and has often accompanied herself on the ukulele.

Harvey Milk’s Legacy: A Night of Reflection and Song
5/21 | The Commons at KQED | 2601 Mariposa St, SF | 7 p.m. | $30.10

Commemorate the enduring legacy of LGBTQ rights trailblazer Harvey Milk with an evening of live music, rarely seen footage from KQED’s archives and interviews with those who knew him best and carry on his work. Join host Scott Shafer (KQED’s Political Breakdown) as he reflects Milks legacy with panelists David Campos, Gwenn Craig and Honey Mahogany. Enjoy a special preview of Harvey Milk Reimagined, the powerful modern opera by Stewart Wallace and Michael Korie, brought to life in a new production by Opera Parallèle.

Robyn Hitchcock
5/21 & 5/22 | The Chapel | 777 Valencia St, SF | 8 p.m. | $32-$54

With a career now spanning six decades, Robyn Hitchcock remains a truly one-of-a-kind artist: surrealist rock ’n’ roller, acoustic troubadour, poet, painter, and writer. From The Soft Boys’ art-rock and The Egyptians’ Dadaist pop to solo masterpieces like 1984’s milestone I Often Dream of Trains and 1990’s Eye, Hitchcock has crafted a striking oeuvre rife with recurring marine life, obsolete electric transport, ghosts, cheese and what one writer has described as “morbid eroticism.”

Official AAPI x Jewish Heritage Month Comedy Showcase
5/21 | Boom Boom Room | 1601 Fillmore St, SF | 8 p.m. | Free, $10 Suggested Donation

Join us for a special AAPI Heritage Month and Jewish Heritage Month comedy showcase at the the always anticipated monthly and highly regarded Value Culture BOOM BOOM Comedy Showcase at the famous Boom Boom Room.This buzzy show is hosted by future local comedy legends Stephanie Block, Paul Robertson and sometimes non profit Value Culture’s leader Adam Swig as a special guest.


Thursday 5/22

Punk Pride with Peaches Christ and Edwin Outwater
5/22 | The Chan National Queer Arts Center | 170 Valencia St, SF | 8 p.m. | $50-$100

Welcome to a one-night-only experience that promises a raucous, rowdy, no-holds-barred evening of queer punk brilliance. Peaches Christ and Edwin Outwater (the San Francisco queer collaborative team behind Holiday Gaiety and Symphony of Terror), have assembled a punk rock showcase like no other. A parade of local legends perform their favorite punk hits, from the Sex Pistols to the Ramones to Green Day and celebrate the queer subcultures that created the world of punk rock as we know it today. All the while, the standing-room-only crowd is immersed in moody lighting, loud amps, and ice-cold beer! Dress in your counterculture best and join us for an unforgettable night of anti-establishment fun. BONUS: Every $50 ticket comes with 2 drink tickets!

Steel Pulse
5/22 | The UC Theatre | 2036 University Ave, Berkeley | 7 p.m. Doors | $51

Bearing witness to the accelerating negativity of global affairs, British reggae powerhouse Steel Pulse exemplify musical vengeance to halt the disarray of humanity. The band’s twelfth studio production, titledMass Manipulation, reflects four decades committed to bettering mankind through music. Steel Pulse songs and lyrics continue to engage controversial topics of racial injustice and human rights on a global scale.

E-40
5/22 | JaM Cellars Ballroom | 1030 Main St, Napa | 8 p.m. | $65-$125

With millions of records sold, nationwide sold-out shows, loved in the streets, boardrooms, and respected amongst his peers, without question E-40 continues to be a testament of longevity, relevance, and hustle. With no signs of slowing down, E-40 looks to continue making more legendary contributions to Urban culture, and you can expect more music, more innovative partnerships, and continued growth of this Tycoon’s already impressive body of work.

kNightLife: Renaissance Faire
5/22 | California Academy of Sciences | 55 Music Concourse Dr Golden Gate Park, SF | 6 p.m. | $25

Raise a goblet and don thy finest garb. A night of reverly and merriment awaits thee at the Academy. Gather yer crew and step back into ye olde good times with live performances, local artisans, and more. Costumes* are celebrated and highly encouraged!


Friday 5/23

Bottlerock Napa Valley 2025
5/23-5/25 | Napa Valley Expo | 575 3rd St, Napa | 11:30 a.m. | $233+

Experience the First Taste of Summer at BottleRock happening May 23 – 25 in the heart of Napa Valley! See Green Day, Justin Timberlake, Noah Kahan, and many more while enjoying extraordinary wine, food & hospitality only available in wine country.

Goapele
5/23 & 5/24 | Yoshi’s Oakland | 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland | 7:30 p.m. Doors | $69-$99

Goapele is more than an artist; she is a luminous presence in the world of music, a profound voice, and a tireless force of creativity whose artistry has shaped the landscape of modern R&B. Renowned for her captivating sound—a beautiful blend of soul, jazz, pop, and moody basslines—Goapele’s music transcends genres and resonates with universal truths. Her voice, ethereal yet commanding, continues to echo the complexities of life, love, and the human experience in ways that are both deeply personal and universally relatable.

Preciosa Night: Pre-Pride Perreo Party
5/23 | The Midway | 900 Marin St, SF | 9 p.m. | $10

The Preciosas are BACK in the BAY, and we’re bringing the heat for a pre-Pride party you won’t forget! Get ready to dance, vibe, and celebrate your queerness at the hottest Queer Latin Party, where the beats are fire, the energy is unmatched, and the community is fierce! Let’s turn up, mis amores! 

FoodieLand Food Festival
5/23-5/25 | Cow Palace | 2600 Geneva Ave, Daly City | 3 p.m. | $15/Parking + $7/admission

 Get ready to indulge your senses at FoodieLand, the ultimate family-friendly outdoor food festival you won’t want to miss. With events spanning California, Washington, Nevada, Arizona and Texas, FoodieLand is your ticket to a one-of-a-kind experience celebrating community, culture and cuisine.

Ferry Flicks at Fort Point: “The Princess Bride”
5/23 | Ferry Building North Plaza | Ferry Building #54, SF | 7 p.m. | $14.75-$19.39

Join us for Ferry Flicks at the Fort Point Beer Garden the first four Fridays in May at sundown! This season of Ferry Flicks is dedicated to “cult classics” – nostalgic, slightly unconventional movies that never get old. We’ll kick the evening off around 7pm with Drag Bingo hosted by Rollin’ With the Homos, and the movie will begin at sunset–around 8pm.


Saturday 5/24

Don’t Despair, Organize! Meeting the Political Moment
5/24 | East Bay Community Space | 507 55th St, Oakland | 2 p.m. | Free

Join us at East Bay Community Space for an empowering event with Black Rose / Rosa Negra Anarchist Federation! At this panel discussion and organizer training, members of Black Rose / Rosa Negra Anarchist Federation will share how we are making sense of our current moment, what we are doing to meet it, and invite you to join our efforts to organize our way of it.

Carnaval San Francisco 2025
5/24-5/25 | The Mission | Harrison St between 17th & 24th St, SF | 9:30 a.m. | Free, All ages

Now in its fourth decade of celebration, Carnaval San Francisco has been an opportunity for many cultures to come together in one spirit to share their creative expressions. Come celebrate with us at our FREE 2–day family festival in San Francisco’s Mission District where we will showcase the very best Latin American and Caribbean cultural arts and traditions.

bby
5/24 | Rickshaw Stop | 155 Fell St, SF | 9 p.m. | $20-$25

BottleRock After Dark Special Popscene Party! Featuring the SF debut of one of England’s hottest new exports, indie rockers bby. Playing one of their patented live “In The Round” sets from the floor of Rickshaw Stop!

The Retro-Future Revue 2
5/24 | Golden Gate Park Bandshell | 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, SF | 12 p.m. | Free, All ages

This free show will feature 4 Bay Area bands that exemplify the diversity of San Francisco’s vibrant music scene. This concert will feature everything from Beatlesque pop, to heavy guitar riffs, to futuristic soul, to ballet dancing set to effusive electronic music. Throughout, elements of San Francisco’s storied musical past will be interwoven with vital new ideas. Costumes are encouraged but by no means required. For inspiration, think the Jetsons, Cowboy Bebop, or any vision of the future that includes a throwback to a previous era. Bring picnic blankets, drinks, snacks, kids, dogs, and the whole family. A splendid time is guaranteed for all!

MAZ (Day Party)
5/24 | Phoenix Hotel | 601 Eddy St, SF | 1 p.m. | $25.39-$36.71

Maz has earned worldwide recognition in the dance music industry, propelled by Beatport’sbest-selling Afro House record of 2022-2023, his own “Banho de Folhas”. By securing fivechart-topping releases, including the Overall #1 with “Amana”, he solidified his position asone of the leading Afro House artists in the world. He has performed in countries across Europe,Americas, Asia, Africa and Middle East.

Sunday 5/25

Hubba Hubba Revue
5/25 | DNA Lounge | 375 11th St, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $15-$35

Set the hyperdrive for DNA Lounge & join San Francisco’s world-famous burlesque & variety show for a stellar (and interstellar!) showcase of delectable droids, slinky Klingons, alien pole dancers, and the best in sci-fi tease!

The Chainsmokers – Block Party
5/25 | The Midway | 900 Marin St, SF | 3 p.m. Doors | $50-$100, 21+

Grammy-winning and chart-topping duo Alex Pall & Drew Taggart bring their signature sound to The Midway. From breakout hits like #Selfie to multi-platinum anthems like Closer, Don’t Let Me Down, and Something Just Like This, The Chainsmokers have dominated charts and festival stages worldwide. Their fusion of indie, progressive, and pop continues to push boundaries, making them one of the most influential acts in electronic music.

Husbands
5/25 | Cafe du Nord | 2174 Market St, SF | 8 p.m. | $29.28

Husbands knows the galvanizing power of an anthemic, hair-raising song. As the co-founding songwriter behind the Oklahoma City indie rock outfit Husbands, Danny Davis has been meticulously crafting emotionally potent tunes about finding your place in the world. His writing always strives to break free from monotony and routine, aiming for meaning and clarity through massive choruses and colorful arrangements.


Monday 5/26

LA LOM: BottleRock Hangover Show
5/26 | Lagunitas Brewing Company | 1280 North McDowell, Petaluma | 4:30 p.m. Doors | Free w/ RSVP

The Los Angeles League of Musicians, LA LOM, are an instrumental trio formed in Los Angeles in 2021. They blend the sounds of Cumbia Sonidera, 60’s soul ballads and classic romantic boleros that emanate from radios, backyard parties and dance clubs of Los Angeles with the twang of Peruvian Chicha and Bakersfield Country.

Matisyahu
5/26 | The Guild Theatre | 949 El Camino Real, Menlo Park | 8 p.m. | $70+

For nearly two decades, Matisyahu has kept his creative spirit aflame by evolving his sound, melding genres, and testing the limits of the musical traditions that have inspired him. His latest EP, Hold The Fire, also finds him reflecting on celebrity and artistic success. For Matisyahu, “the unbelievable and miraculous feeling of being connected to our people” is what keeps the creative fire alight.

Don’t forget to check out our Big Bad List of Rad Ongoing Events right here!

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