Journal
4 San Francisco Music Festivals Not to Miss This Summer
What better way to relish the summer season than by listening to music in the ultimate al fresco setting? In San Francisco, there’s no shortage of summer concerts to enjoy your favorite music alongside loved ones—with delicious bites and a drink in hand, no less. Read up on the city’s best outdoor music festivals, purchase your tickets and get ready to jam out to the sounds of summer.
San Francisco Jazz Festival
June 6 – 17
The San Francisco Jazz Festival is an absolute summer must, kicking off its 36th year in an unrivaled outdoor setting at PROXY in Hayes Valley. Enjoy more than 44 shows from famed artists like Ahmad Jamal, Monsieur Periné and Irma Thomas—amongst several others—while taking advantage of the festival’s food trucks and beer gardens.
Fillmore Jazz Festival
June 30 – July 1
The 34th annual Fillmore Jazz Festival will take up residence on Fillmore Street for a weekend of great tunes and even better vibes. The West Coast’s largest free jazz concert, the Fillmore Jazz Festival brings in renowned artists and more than 100,000 attendees. From sunup to sundown, groove to the sounds of live music while browsing nearly twelve blocks of fine art, crafts, gourmet food and beverages.
Stern Grove Festival
June 17 – August 19
The timeless Stern Grove Festival will host its 81st season in a magical Golden Gate Park setting amidst a eucalyptus forest. This summer’s festival will commence with the Big Picnic—a fundraiser, party and catered lunch. Later in the evening, make your way over to the stage, set down your picnic and revel in performances from Jeffrey Osborne and Peabo Bryson. Live music will continue through the season with appearances from the San Francisco Ballet, San Francisco Symphony and popular artists like Ziggy Marley and M. Ward.
Outside Lands Music Festival
August 10 – 12
Perhaps San Francisco’s most sought-after music festival, Outside Lands brings in visitors from both near and far to jam out to the nation’s best artists. Golden Gate Park will transform into an otherworldly celebration of music, food, wine, beer, art and comedy. This year’s headliners are The Weeknd, Florence + The Machine and Janet Jackson, although you can undoubtedly find your favorite band in the extensive lineup. The Wine Lands and Beer Lands tents will also be serving up beverages from local wineries and breweries to accompany the Taste of the Bay Area station, complete with eats from some of the region’s best restaurants.