Count Me In
 by Vanessa Gil, Arts & Events Editor

BottleRock is finally here! I am looking forward to a weekend rolling on my own schedule, good music (Remi Wolf, Cage the Elephant, Rebelution…just to name a few), tasty foods, the fashion, sunshine, and running into old friends & acquaintances. Of course, there’s plenty of other exciting events going on in the Bay Area, never a dull moment. Here’s what I’m looking forward to the week of 5/20 and beyond.

Our Merch

This Shirt Says What We’re All Feeling

I have a feeling I’ll be wearing this a lot over the next 4 years. Want one of your own?⁠ Partial proceeds go to Planned Parenthood.

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Our Partners’ Events

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! Get your tickets now!

Broke-Ass Stuart is Hosting SoMa Nights!
5/22 | SoMa | 1145 Folsom St, SF | 5 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

On May 22nd at 5:00 pm “SOMA Nights” will take place on Folsom Street as an addition to the city’s new Entertainment Zone legislation. SOMA West Community Benefit District has partnered up with Civic Joy Fund and Music City to transform Folsom street into a Music Festival bringing in many genres of music to activate local businesses all along Folsom Street. And Stuart is hosting it! RSVP here.

Listen to This Week’s Spotify Playlist

Listen to this week’s playlist so you can sample upcoming bands and comedians listed in this newsletter.

This Week’s Events 5/20-5/26

Tuesday 5/20

BOUNCE Podcast Launch Party
5/20 | KALW | 220 Montgomery St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $0–$23.18

There’s a new game in town. The Golden State Valkyries are about to tip off. Let’s go! Join KALW for a launch party celebrating the return of BOUNCE, the nationally award winning basketball podcast by, about, and for the Bay.

PARADE
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. 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).

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

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. 

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.

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

Queer & Well Presents – A TGNC Self-defense Training Class
5/22 | SF LGBT Center | 1800 Market St, SF | 5:30 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Join the SF LGBT Center, The Transgender District, LGBT Asylum Project and LYRIC for the second class in our TGNC Self-defense series. This class will be led by the team from My Occupational Defense. Our intention is for folks to learn simple and effective tools and tactics for community to use in order to defend against physical assault.

Uly Morazan
5/22 | Cobb’s Comedy Club | 915 Columbus Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $25.25-$45.25, 18+

Ulysses “Uly” Morazan is a Los Angeles based actor and comedian known for his relatable humor, engaging storytelling, and for coining the phrase “current husband.” Uly’s countless viral video series’ including “Gay Math” and “Football for Swifties” have captivated over one million followers across all social platforms. His television appearances include roles on Hacks, This is Us, 9-1-1, and as Jeremy in Not Dead Yet, as well as talk show appearances on The Jennifer Hudson Show. He’s currently touring hit variety show “I Love Uly” which he says is “kinda like the Eras Tour but not.” 

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

SF Queer Art & Music Festival: 9 Day celebration of community and performing & visual arts!
5/23-5/31 | Multiple Tenderloin Venues, SF | Free w/ RSVP

Leading into San Francisco Pride month, this 9-day celebration will take over multiple venues across the Tenderloin, and feature local and national DJs, bands, drag queens, and visual artists. Join us in a fun and irreverent celebration of queer creativity, community, and culture.

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.

Puppet Party Presents: Puppets & Comedians
5/23 | All Out Comedy Theater | 2550 Telegraph Ave, Oakland | 8 p.m. | $15

The Bay Area’s best stand-up comedians & storytellers have a tight five minutes to build something amazing only to have a team of rowdy improvisers mercilessly parody their lovingly constructed set with bawdy, puppet-on-puppet sketch comedy. WARNING: This show is NOT likely to be right for your nibbling who loves Sesame Street unless they’re like… really cool & NOT A SNITCH. 

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

Chinatown Pride 2025: We are Immortal!
5/24 | Chinatown | 800 Grant Ave, SF | 6 p.m. | Free, All ages, $20/Silent Disco

The Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco (CCC) and Edge on the Square co-present the 2nd Chinatown Pride 2025: We are Immortal!—a powerful evening-long festival that transforms our neighborhood into a bold celebration of resistance through art, dance, and storytelling, opening with a first-ever Chinatown Pride procession and culminating in an exhilarating silent disco!

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

The 51st Annual Muir Beach Volunteer Firefighters’ Barbecue
5/25 | Santos Meadows | 2704 Muir Woods Road, Muir Beach | 12 p.m. | $30/parking, $10/walk, bike

Featuring delicious food, fantastic live music, tasty craft beers, premium wine, and a whole lot of fun for the family, the Muir Beach Volunteer Firefighters’ Barbecue is a festive gathering and a favorite Memorial Day weekend tradition in Marin and an essential fundraiser for the Muir Beach Volunteer Fire Department. This year’s event is particularly special, as the MBVFD is set to build a brand-new firehouse near the Muir Beach Overlook. Proceeds from the Barbecue will directly support this critical project, ensuring the department is well-equipped to serve the community for years to come.

Temple Live: Soulja Boy
5/25 | Temple | 540 Howard St, SF | 10 p.m. | $25.18+, 21+

Get ready, San Francisco—Temple Live is back with a massive Memorial Day Weekend edition featuring hip-hop icon Soulja Boy! From viral internet dominance to chart-topping hits, Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em has been a trailblazer in the rap game since his breakout smash “Crank That (Soulja Boy)” took over the world in 2007. As one of the first artists to harness the power of social media and digital platforms, Soulja Boy pioneered a new era of independent hip-hop success—blending catchy hooks, club anthems, and a one-of-a-kind persona that continues to leave a mark on pop culture. This Memorial Day Weekend, he’s bringing that same iconic energy to the heart of San Francisco nightlife for a special Temple Live performance you won’t forget.

THOT SQUAD
5/25 | Hotel Utah Saloon | 500 5th St, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $30, 21+

Make it cocktails, dinner and a show at The Utah! A Night of Empowering Hip Hop, Rap, & more.

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.

The Week of 5/27-6/2

Tuesday 5/27

BottleRock After Dark: Goose
5/27 & 5/28 | The Masonic | 1111 California St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $64+

Goose is an American rock band from Wilton, Connecticut, formed in 2014. The band consists of Rick Mitarotonda, Trevor Weeks, Peter Anspach, and Cotter Ellis. Goose has gained popularity since early 2020, in large part due to live performances with larger acts like Dead & Company, Trey Anastasio, and Bob Weir.

Vinyl Nights
5/27 | W San Francisco | 181 3rd St, SF | 7 p.m. | Free, 21+

Vinyl Nights bring a fresh spin to midweek evenings with live sets from DJ Works! Here guests are welcome to experience an eclectic mix of vinyl tracks while enjoying craft cocktails and the vibrant atmosphere of the Living Room Bar. Designed to blend the spirit of San Francisco with the allure of classic records, Vinyl Nights offers a dynamic, laid-back space to unwind, connect, and celebrate the best of the city’s nightlife. 

Honey Revenge
5/27 | Cornerstone | 2367 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley | 7 p.m. | $34.46-$41.15

Honey Revenge is an American pop rock band formed in Los Angeles in 2021. Comprising lead vocalist Devin Papadol and guitarist Donovan Lloyd. They released their debut album, Retrovision, in June 2023. They have frequently cited You Me at Six, Paramore, Hannah Montana, and Demi Lovato as influences.


Wednesday 5/28

Chess Lecture at the Bernal Library
5/28 | Bernal Heights Branch Library | 500 Cortland Ave, SF | 6 p.m. | Free, All ages

Join the Bernal Chess Club for our monthly lecture at the Bernal Heights Library. At 6pm we’ll learn about a beautiful game from chess history, followed by time for casual combat for those who want to play. All levels and ages are welcome. Bring a chess set if you have one.

Profs & Pints Alameda: How Music Affects Our Brains
5/28 | Faction Brewing | 2501 Monarch St, Alameda | $13.50-$17

Profs and Pints Alameda presents: “How Music Affects Our Brains,” with Petr Janata, a cognitive neuroscientist at the University of California Davis who has spent more than three decades studying the psychology and neuroscience of music. Get ready to listen to something truly amazing: A talk on pioneering research on music’s impact on what’s between our ears and how and why it plays with our emotions, sparks memories, and gets stuck in our minds.

Erin Jackson
5/28-5/31 | Punch Line SF | 444 Battery St, SF | 8 p.m. | $22.25-$34.25, 18+

Erin Jackson is one of the fastest-rising comedians in New York City. She’s a fixture in the city’s top comedy clubs and made her Netflix debut on Season 2 of TIFFANY HADDISH PRESENTS: THEY READY. Erin is a television writer, currently working on the hit Netflix show, THE UPSHAWS. She also co-hosted three seasons of EXHALE, a panel talk series that aired on the ASPiRE television network. Her comedy album, GRUDGERY, debuted at No. 1 on the iTunes comedy charts. Erin is a proud alumna of Howard University and a die-hard Philadelphia Eagles fan.

benches
5/28 | The Independent | 628 Divisadero St, SF | 8 p.m. | $27.32

benches is a Southern California group consisting of Anson Kelley (vocals/guitar), Ethan Bowers (drums), Evan Ojeda (lead guitar), and Charlie Baird (bass). Reminiscent of both the ceremonious majesty of 90’s Britpop and the insouciance of 2000’s NY rock, the band’s heart is rooted in defining the sound of bittersweet: A blend of joy and sadness, wrapped up into infectious indie rock.

Thursday 5/29

Kendrick Lamar and SZA
5/29 | Oracle Park | 24 Willie Mays Plaza, SF | 7 p.m. | $353.05+

The Grand National Tour by rapper Kendrick Lamar and singer-songwriter SZA, is in support of Lamar’s sixth studio album GNX (2024) and SZA’s first reissue album SOS Deluxe: Lana (2024). This is the first all-stadium tour for both artists.

The Photography of Georg Lester
5/29-6/18 | The Midway | 900 Marin St, SF | 6:30 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Join us for a solo exhibition featuring the scenic photography of Georg Lester. George’s work captures wide landscapes and moody city views in his highly detailed series.

Melissa Villaseñor
5/29 & 5/30 | Cobb’s Comedy Club | 915 Columbus Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $30.25-$50.25, 18+

Melissa Villaseñor is an American comedian, actress, musician, and illustrator. First garnering attention for her stand-up shows and impressions, Villaseñor found wider success when she was hired to join the cast of SNL ahead of the show’s 42nd season in 2016. She then departed SNL at the end of the 47th season in 2022, after six seasons as a cast member.

Burrito Showdown
5/29 | The Commons at KQED | 2601 Mariposa St, SF | 7 p.m. | $30.10

Local burrito barons La Taqueria, Papalote Mexican Grill and La Vaca Birria showcase their takes on the iconic Mission-style burrito! Enjoy food demos that celebrate the rich flavors and cultural roots behind the Mission burrito as you indulge in mouthwatering bites, learn about the history of the burrito in the Bay and experience the passion of these community staples. Don’t miss this delicious celebration of tradition and taste.

Friday 5/30

Pride Renaissance: Celebrating Community Resilience
5/30 | Swedish American Music Hall | 2174 Market St, SF | 5:30 p.m. | $80+

Join us for the biggest fundraiser in our organization’s 14-year history! An unforgettable evening of resilience, celebration, and community as we raise critical funds for LGBTQIA+ mental health services in a rapidly changing political landscape.

Fort Mason Night Market
5/30 | Fort Mason Center | 2 Marina Blvd, SF | 4 p.m. | Free, All ages

Make it a monthly affair starting with the Night Market 2025 at Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture (FMCAC). This outdoor market transforms the historic FMCAC campus into a dynamic showcase of local artisans, cuisine, and entertainment. This free public event combines the San Francisco Bay Area’s premier craft vendors with outstanding food offerings against a backdrop of stunning waterfront views.

Fridays on Front St.
5/30 | Front Street Entertainment Zone | 240 Front St, SF | 4 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP, All ages

Ditch the desk and hit the streets! San Francisco’s newest FREE block party, Fridays on Front St, is here! Join us on select Fridays for outdoor live music featuring local artists curated by Noise Pop, the glorious freedom of sipping beer in the streets, food pop-ups, and all the sports, games, and good vibes your heart desires. Fridays on Front St isn’t just a block party; it’s your new weekend kick-off, SF style. Plus Stuart is hosting! 

Jay Shetty
5/30 | Bill Graham Civic Auditorium | 99 Grove St, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $66.75+

Jay Shetty, a global bestselling author, award-winning podcast host of ‘On Purpose’ and purpose-driven entrepreneur, has made an indelible impact on hearts and minds worldwide. Jay possesses a talent for making purpose and ancient wisdom not only relatable but also practical and easily accessible. His journey of transformation and inspiration has touched the lives of millions across the globe. Jay is on the mission of spreading love, purpose and transformation globally.

The Damned
5/30 | The UC Theatre | 2036 University Ave, Berkeley | 7 p.m. Doors | $51

People have been arguing about punk rock since the big bang that created that high decibel universe. The Damned were at the heart of that revolution and have returned like resurrected vampires to take back the(ir) punk rock crown. Few bands have managed to maintain their manic muse, few bands have been key catalysts to a musical genre, few bands have managed to improve like fine old wines and few have managed to do it with such fantastic chaos, captivating style and shape shifting music as The Damned. Their mix of theatrics and raw power combine to create their vaudeville immaculate and gothic horror shivers, dark music hall anthems and a perfect punk rock.

Dillon Francis
5/30 | 1015 Folsom | 1015 Folsom St, SF | 10 p.m. | $35-$45, 21+

Dillon Francis is an American electronic music producer and DJ. With Cat Liu, Off The Record, Camillionaire, Rhythm & Sound, Sauci, Just Feels Right, Twogee, Sussybaka Left On Read, & RYY.


Saturday 5/31

East Bay Open Studios
5/3-6/1 | 12 Bay Area Cities | 11 a.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Discover the creative heartbeat of the East Bay! Meet 150+ local artists, explore studios and galleries across 12 cities, and experience two weekends of art, inspiration, and discovery. From paintings to prints, ceramics to textiles—there’s something for everyone!

La Onda Festival 2025
5/31-6/1 | Napa Valley | 575 3rd St, Napa | 12 p.m. | $199+

La Onda by BottleRock returns to the heart of Napa Valley for year two! Don’t miss out on the largest Latin festival in Northern California featuring amazing food, music and more celebrating Latin culture. 

Union Street Festival
5/31-6/1 | Union Street | Union St, from Fillmore to Gough, SF | 11 a.m. | Free, All ages

As one of the city’s largest and longest-running street festivals, the Union Street Festival invites locals and visitors alike to celebrate San Francisco’s vibrant culture, creativity, and community. For two full days, Union Street will transform into a festive open-air marketplace featuring live music and dance, delicious food, craft cocktails and mocktails, local brews, family-friendly activities, and handcrafted goods from a wide array of Bay Area artists and makers.

Festa Italiana 2025 + 104th Statuto Race
5/31-6/1 | North Beach | Stockton St at Union St, SF | 11 a.m. | Free, All ages

A Street festival of Italian food, drink, music, culture, family fun and the running of the 104th Statuto Race on Sunday morning.

Kash Doll
5/31 | The UC Theatre | 2036 University Ave, Berkeley | 7 p.m. Doors | $67-$132

Kash Doll is a Detroit-born rapper and actress who has made a significant impact in the music industry over the last decade. Known for her confident delivery and unapologetic style, she first rose to prominence with hits like “For Everybody” and “Ice Me Out.” Kash Doll’s highly anticipated sophomore album, The Last Doll, showcases her growth as both an artist and a mother, featuring collaborations with Tee Grizzley, Yung Bleu, Tink, and more. Beyond music, she has made waves with her roles on Starz’s BMF and BET’s Diarra from Detroit, and she continues to influence through her philanthropy with her nonprofit, Fairy Boss Mother. 

Hippie Sabotage with Carpetman
5/31 | The Warfield | 982 Market St, SF | 8 p.m. | $43.18+

Hippie Sabotage is a Sacramento born, LA based production duo made up of brothers Kevin & Jeff Saurer. The duo got their start as bedroom producers in middle school after obsessing over the music used in their favorite skateboarding videos. Their sound is rooted in electronic music, but it takes cues from hip hop, psych rock, and chill wave, all pulled together by Jeff’s killer guitar skills and Kevin’s explosive personality on stage.


Sunday 6/1

Golden State Valkyries Game
6/1 | Chase Center | 1 Warriors Way, SF | 5:30 p.m. | $33.04+

Watch the Golden State Valkryies host the Minnesota Lynx!

Sammy Obeid
6/1 | San Jose Improv | 62 S 2nd St, San Jose | $37.17-$119.88

Lebanese-Palestinian American, born in Oakland California, Sammy Obeid double majored in Business and Mathematics at UC Berkeley and then turned down a job at Google to be a comedian. Now the host of 100 Humans on Netflix, he’s also appeared on NBC’s Last Comic Standing and America’s Got Talent, as well as TBS’s Conan, and is best known for his world record of performing comedy 1,001 nights in a row, a story featured in both Time Magazine and The New York Times. 

Swagger Like Us Presents
6/1 | El Rio | 3158 Mission St, SF | 3 p.m. | $20-$30

Swagger Like Us Presents with DJs Rush Davis, Black Woman, Charles Hawthorne B2B Honey Bear, & davOmakesbeats.

Sweet Tooth
6/1 | The Stud | 1123 Folsom St, SF | 3 p.m. | $7.18+

Join us for an extra extra special line up as we kick off pride! You’re favorite pansexual bipoc dance party is back presented by Makeroom! What to Expect: A sweet dance floor filled with unapologetic joy at the historic STUD. Fire DJ sets by all-POC talent bringing the heat. Hip-hop, House, Jersey Club, Baile Funk, Afrohouse, Ampiano, Reggaeton + more. Queer-friendly vibes in a space to let loose and connect. WEAR A PRIDE LOOK and don’t miss this one-of-a-kind event where the music is sweet, and the energy is even sweeter. 


Monday 6/2

Matt Bernstein
6/2 | Cafe du Nord | 2174 Market St, SF | 8:30 p.m. | $64.30-$98.29

Join Matt Bernstein for his A Bit Fruity Spring Tour as he takes his hit podcast on the road! This lively tour features Matts signature mix of humor, bold commentary, and candid conversations, recorded live in cities across the country. Expect unscripted moments, behind-the-scenes podcast insights, special guests, and plenty of laughs. Whether youre a longtime fan or new to the show, Matt promises an unforgettable night of comedy and connection.

The Heavy Heavy
6/2 | The Lagunitas Brewing Company | 1280 North McDowell, Petaluma | 4:30 p.m. | Free-$106.49, 21+

Grab a cold one and catch The Heavy Heavy for FREE on June 2nd at Lagunitas Brewing Company in Petaluma! With the arrival of their debut EP Life and Life Only, The Heavy Heavy immediately filled a longtime void in the musical landscape, delivering a soulful breed of rock & roll untouched by modern artifice. As audiences across the globe grew enchanted with their era-bending sound, the UK-based band began selling out headline shows in major cities like New York and Chicago, opening for the likes of Black Pumas and Band of Horses, all with only a handful of songs to their name. After spending the past two years on the road and in the studio, The Heavy Heavy now draw listeners even deeper into their dreamworld with their long-awaited debut album, One Of A Kind.

The Week of 6/3-6/9

Tuesday 6/3

Ministry
6/3 | The Warfield | 982 Market St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $66+

Ministry is an American industrial metal band founded in Chicago, Illinois, in 1981 by producer, singer, and instrumentalist Al Jourgensen. With a new line up, incredibly full sound, and some might say a return to the roots of MINISTRY, the band is prepared to release a record that is socially relevant and sonically effective. There is simply too much insanity in this world for Jourgensen not to speak his mind and keep our senses alive with his vast array of decibels and visuals: “I’m afraid for the stupidity of not embracing nonsense. I think nonsense is a great escape from the rigors of being in life’s hamster wheel.”

James Arthur
6/3 | The Masonic | 1111 California St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $40-$65

James Arthur is an English singer and songwriter. He rose to fame after winning the ninth series of The X Factor in 2012. His debut single, a cover of Shontelle’s “Impossible”, was released by Syco Music after the final, and debuted at number one on the UK Singles Chart. Since then, it has gone on to sell over 2.5 million copies worldwide, making it the most successful winner’s single in the show’s history. 

Odd Salon SF: UNCHARTED
6/3 | Public Works | 161 Erie St, SF | 6:30 p.m. | $28.52+, 21+

Stories from the remote and far flung, of terra incognita and obscure frontiers, and of bold inquiries into the unknown. Odd Salon is an independent, community-based project, dedicated to bringing together curious minds in pursuit of stories from history’s odd and overlooked corners, the joys of research, and the craft of storytelling.

Tuesday Night Roller Disco
6/3 | Church of 8 Wheels | 554 Fillmore St, SF | 8 p.m. | $23.08, 18+

This is how you we spread rolligion!!! We have monthly theme nights on Tuesday nights, but all of these sessions is where anyone can come in and get their skate groove on!!! The first Tuesday of the month is Goth Skate Night.

Wednesday 6/4

Julia Wolf, Worry Club, Ellis
6/4 | Brick & Mortar Music Hall | 1710 Mission St, SF | 7 p.m. | $33.90

Hailing from Long Island’s North Shore, Julia Wolf is a once-in-a- generation artist, genre-bending storyteller and a beacon of inspiration to music fans, tastemakers and fellow artists alike. Her journey is a vivid narrative of vulnerability, growth, experimentation & the human experience. Her 2023 debut album, “Good Thing We Stayed”, melds Julia’s hauntingly beautiful vocals and emotive songwriting with trap-infused pop melodies. Venturing into new realms, her singles “In My Room” and “Wishbone” revisit her rock roots, showcasing her versatile artistry and defiance of conventional boundaries. Julia’s bond with her audience transcends music; her lyrics resonate so deeply that fans often immortalize them into tattoos, while industry support has been known to lend itself in the form of billboards (Spotify, YouTube Music) and playlists like Spotify’s “Fresh Finds” & Tidal’s “Rising: Pop”.

Flux Vertical Theatre: Down n’ Dirty for Pride
6/4 | DNA Lounge | 375 11th St, SF | 8 p.m. Doors | $10-$20, 18+

San Francisco’s world famous burlesque and variety show welcomes the superstar pole-dancers of Flux Vertical Theatre for a very special, Wednesday evening Pride celebration!

An Unsinkable Experience with Sausalito Liquor Co
6/4 | The Fairmont San Francisco | 950 Mason St, SF | 5:30 p.m. | $40.25

Come join us for a night of unforgettable cocktails at LAUREL COURT RESTAURANT in the Fairmont San Francisco Hotel. Tasting led by Scott Jampol (founder), Michael Hodge (partner/Chief of Sales and former early employee at WhistlePig) and Rebecca Stein. Sausalito Liquor Co will be serving up their finest creations in a stunning setting. Get ready to sip and savor in style as you enjoy a unique blend of flavors and ambiance.

Durand Bernarr : You Gon’ Grow, Too! Tour
6/3 (Sold Out) & 6/4 | Bimbo’s 365 Club | 1025 Columbus Ave, SF | 8 p.m. | $36.01, 18+

Durand Bernarr is a GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter, and visionary artist who has emerged as one of the most exciting and innovative voices in contemporary R&B. Hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, Durand was born into a musical family, with an audio engineer father and a vocal coach mother who cultivated his deep connection to sound. By 16, he was already working behind the scenes with Earth, Wind & Fire, a pivotal moment that sparked his career. Durand’s distinct voice and genre-blending style first captured attention with his 2016 project Sound Check, but it was his debut album DUR& (2020)—featuring collaborations with Ari Lennox, Anna Wise, and Kaytranada—that solidified his place in the R&B landscape.

Thursday 6/5

Pardoner
6/5 | The Chapel | 777 Valencia St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $20-$25

Pardoner is a San Francisco-based rock band. The core trio consists of Max Freeland, Trey Flanigan, and River van den Berghe. Their music blends slacker rock attitude with pummeling hardcore for a visceral sound. Their acclaimed full-length album, Peace Loving People, features incisive songwriting and cultural criticism of the music industry.

Choir! Choir! Choir!
6/5-6/7 | The Freight | 2020 Addison St, Berkeley | 8 p.m. | $44

This time, Choir! Choir! Choir!  presents: An EPIC 80s Sing-Along! Choir! Choir! Choir! is a fully interactive, participatory show that turns audience into performer! So get ready to laugh, dance and SING! your hearts out with hundreds of other music-lovers just like you. It’s like a big birthday party for the greatest songs of all time and you’re invited! So grab a friend (or ten), and come out ready to GIVE IT ALL YOU’VE GOT! – all voices welcome, no experience necessary. They Teach, You Sing! Everyone Wins!

Rebel Girls Bingo
6/5 | KQED Headquarters | 2601 Mariposa St, SF | 7 p.m. | $12.96

KQED Culture Writer Rae Alexandra chronicles the stories of women who defied their times in her series Rebel Girls From Bay Area History. Learn about the dancer who helped start the Black Panthers’ free Breakfast program. The Piedmont nurse and public health teacher who founded Oakland’s first children’s hospital. The Filipina activist so unstoppable her nickname was “Bullet.” We’ll hear their stories — and many others — in our annual bingo night.

After Dark: #FAIL
6/5 | Exploratorium | Pier 15, SF | 6 p.m. | $22.95, 18+

What do scientists and artists have in common? Countless fails! In fact, having things go wrong is a normal and essential part of the creative and scientific process. Join us at After Dark to embrace, normalize, and celebrate failure, and find out how mistakes can lead to surprising discoveries and opportunity for growth. Come learn about how we can all benefit from failing together, and maybe even enter your own glorious flop era.


Friday 6/6

Neil deGrasse Tyson
6/6 | Paramount Theatre | 2025 Broadway, Oakland | 8 p.m. | $38.50-$98.50

Beginning with Mars, Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson reviews the ongoing effort to search for habitable planets, liquid water, and life in the cosmos. “The Search For Life in the Universe” culminates in the search for intelligent life, whether or not it already exists on Earth.

SPIN SF First Fridays – “Dare to Play With Pride”
6/6 | SPIN | 690 Folsom St #100, SF | 8 p.m. | $10/table reservation

SPIN’s First Fridays continue in June with our most colorful celebration yet: Play As You Are, an unapologetically vibrant tribute to Pride Month. From drag-hosted ping pong battles to karaoke served with a side of glitter, SPIN is transforming into a rainbow-hued playground of joy and self-expression. Expect bold bites, prideful sips, queer talent center stage, and a whole lot of love.

First Friday: Pride
6/6 | Chabot Space & Science Center | 10000 Skyline Blvd, Oakland | 6 p.m. | $5-$10

Kick off Pride Month with the whole family with an out-of-this-world celebration of science, creativity, and community! Explore hands-on science demos that will ignite your curiosity, get creative with themed crafts, and groove to live music that will have everyone on their feet. Gather with the community in this colorful celebration and make memories that will last a lifetime. We can’t wait to see you there!

2025 US Air Guitar Regional Championship
6/6 | Bottom of the Hill | 1233 17th St, SF | 8 p.m. | $23.18

To enter the Championships you must accept the terms of entry and pay the $20 entry fee here. If you win you will receive a travel stipend and a guaranteed competition slot in THE National Championships!

CupcakKe
6/6 | Temple | 540 Howard St, SF | 10 p.m. | $30.93+, 21+

The rap sensation herself is taking over Eruption! Known for her raw lyrics, high-energy performances, and fearless attitude, CupcakKe is bringing the heat to our biggest event yet. This is one for the books—you do NOT want to miss it.

Saturday 6/7

Cheese Plus 20th Anniversary Artisan Food Festival Block Party Celebration
6/7 | Cheese Plus | 2001 Polk St, SF | 11 a.m. | Free w/ RSVP

Welcome to the Cheese Plus 20th Anniversary Artisan Food Festival Block Party Celebration! Join us at Cheese Plus for a day filled with delicious food, fun activities, and great company. Indulge in a variety of artisan cheese, charcuterie, chocolate, olive oil and other gourmet treats from the Bay Area’s finest artisan food producers while enjoying live music and entertainment. Sip your favorite brews from Wondrous, Cellarmaker, Olfactory, and Standard Deviant breweries, and visit our pop-up partners Moody Goose Vintage, Out of Sight Records, Babylon Burning Screen Printing, and more. This event is a fantastic way to celebrate our 20th anniversary and share our love for artisan food with the community. Don’t miss out on this special occasion – mark your calendar and come celebrate with us!

Explore All the Colors of the Rainbow: A Queer Intuitive Painting Journey
6/7 | The Center for Creative Exploration | 300 Chenery St, SF | 10 a.m. | $110+

A queer intuitive painting workshop with The Center for Creative Exploration. Let’s explore with wonder and paint everything that we are at this moment: our pride and fear, our solidarity and grief, our pain and our beauty. Quietly together, let’s practice being with this wholeness. With color and movement, paints and brushes, and with no judgement or plan, express your creative and outrageous self.

Pop-Ups on the Plaza: Juneteenth on the Waterfront
6/7 | Ferry Plaza Farmer’s Market | One Ferry Building, SF | 9 a.m. | Free

Celebrate local Black-owned businesses at the 5th annual Juneteenth on the Waterfront. Kick off a month of Juneteenth celebrations in San Francisco with a day of delicious food, crafts, and community at the Embarcadero Ferry Terminal Plaza (south of the Ferry Building) and Ferry Plaza Farmers Market. Entry is free and open to the public, and food and drinks will be available for purchase.

LGBooTie Pride
6/7 | Cat Club | 1190 Folsom St, SF | 9 p.m. | $10, 21+

We’re kicking off Pride Month with a pop party for queers of all stripes and their allies! With the entire Bootie Mashup team being various flavors of LGBTQ+ — especially our core crew of bi, pan, and trans — our annual Pride party is always a great excuse to spin all our favorite queertastic and divalicious mashups.

Un Viaje: Pride at the Park
6/7 | Salesforce Park | 425 Mission St, SF | 3 p.m. | Free, All ages

Celebrate and stand with our LGBTQ community on the rooftop garden of TJPA’s Salesforce Park for the third annual Un Viaje: Pride at the Park. This all-ages, interdisciplinary event brings together local queer musicians, drag artists, and dancers. Produced by and featuring Banda Sin Nombre, with performances by Esotérica Tropical, Shane Zaldivar, Mama Dora, La Katia, and Jesse Escalante.
 
Movie Night: Wicked
6/7 | Yerba Buena Gardens | 750 Howard St, SF | 6 p.m. | Free/Donation

Movies in the park are alive in Yerba Buena Gardens as a screening of the hit 2024 musical Wicked transforms the Gardens into a grassy Emerald City! Enjoy food and drinks from local restaurants, pre-show entertainment and no flying monkeys. Bring your blanket, low lawn chairs, and best Oz-themed garb (under your layers of course!). Cheer, hiss and sing along as Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba Thropp and Ariana Grande’s Galinda Upland become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good. Hint: It ain’t easy being green.


Sunday 6/8

TEDx Palo Alto
6/5 | The Guild Theatre | 949 El Camino Real, Menlo Park | 2:30 p.m. | $63.26-$92.23

Join us for an inspiring afternoon at TEDxPaloAlto Salon as we explore The New Renaissance: Redefining Work, Learning, Medicine, Expression, and Purpose. Through solo talks, panels, and engaging discussions, this event examines how artificial intelligence is reshaping human potential—while also highlighting the domains that remain uniquely human. We’ll hear from scientists, technologists, doctors, educators, and musicians sharing their perspectives on this transformative era.

June Community Kitchen – Hawaiian
6/8 | Japanese Cultural & Community Center | 1840 Sutter St, SF | 3 p.m. | $30-$35

A shared evening of cooking and dinner with recipes from the community! We are so excited to announce our popular Hawaiian theme menu is back! Join us in creating these delicious Hawaiian foods on June 8th! Community Kitchen is organized by volunteers to bring members of our community together to learn how to cook Japanese and Japanese American family recipes and to share a multi-generational communal dinner. Adapting our Baachan’s Kitchen program started in 2016, our Community Kitchen is open to all who want to enjoy and share Japanese home-style cooking while connecting with the community.

Monday 6/9

Check, Please! Taste and Sip 2025
6/9 | San Francisco Design Center Galleria | 101 Henry Adams St, SF | 7 p.m. | $99-$149, plus fees

Join host Leslie Sbrocco to celebrate the 20th season of Check, Please! Bay Area. Many of Sbrocco’s favorite wineries and more than 50 restaurants from the show will be featured in this showcase of the Bay Area’s amazing culinary community. And the best part is — you get to sample them all! Check out the full list of participating restaurants, wineries and beverage vendors, and more. Also featuring live entertainment by jazz musician Lidia Rodriguez, featured on KQED Live’s stage.

Malcolm Todd
6/9 | The Regency Ballroom | 1300 Van Ness Ave, SF | 8 p.m. | $148.75+

Malcolm “Todd” Hobert is an American singer-songwriter and musician. He signed to Columbia Records after he went viral on TikTok for his 2023 singles “Art House” and “Roommates”, both of which were included on the mixtape Sweet Boy, released in 2024. He released his first studio album, Malcolm Todd, in 2025. Todd’s music is a blend of indie pop and R&B and has been heavily compared to Steve Lacy.

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