Wrapping up my look at noteworthy events in the San Francisco area here’s a look at some regional celebrations that take place during the end of the year.
Castro Street Fair
This family-friendly event typically takes place during the first weekend in October. It is chock full of PG-rated fun and attracts thousands to Castro St. between Market and 19th streets. Along with the miles of craft booths there is a slew of food and clothing vendors displaying their wares. Yummy treats aside this neighborhood celebration is known for its showcase of dancers who strut their stuff at the dozens of pavilions that blast music out on the street.
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival
It’s more about the music than the dancing at the annual Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival. The event is highlighted by performances from the nation’s top country, bluegrass, and crossover stars, including John Prine, Steve Earle, and Emmylou Harris. The big name celebrities join local favorites and up-and-comers at this free weekend music fest, which takes place at Golden Gate Park during first weekend in October. In all, more than 60 bands perform on five stages.
Fleet Week
This annual event, which features a parade of Navy ships that sail under the Golden Gate, is a huge deal. Tens of thousands of war veterans along with current military personnel and civilians crowd San Francisco to take part in a weeks worth of festivities including an air show by the Blue Angels aerobatic flight team, a waterfront music festival, ship tours, and fireworks.
San Francisco Jazz Festival
What was once a locals-only event has grown into an international festival that attracts tens of thousands of jazz lovers from around the world. The world-renown jazzapalooza features more than 30 events during a five-week period that starts in October and runs through November. The events take place at venues all around San Francisco and include performances by jazz piano legends such as Herbie Hancock and Ahmad Jamal, to world music icons such as Ravi Shankar and Youssou N’Dour.
Related Articles:
What to Know Before You Go—San Francisco Part 2
What to Know Before You Go—San Francisco
Kristi Yamaguchi’s San Francisco
Fall Happenings In San Francisco
Destination: San Francisco–Perfect Picnic Spots
Outdoor Hot Spots In San Francisco
Travel Deals: Catering To Californians
What To Know Before You Visit—AUSTRIA, SPAIN and PORTUGAL
What To Know Before You Visit–IRELAND, SWITZERLAND and POLAND
What To Know Before You Visit—FRANCE