As I mentioned in my previous blog, my best friend is currently in San Francisco on a business trip. After ribbing her about being a hotel hermit we discussed some of the seasonal events that are taking place around the city right now. She said her hotel and the streets around it are packed with people who are in town for a number of local festivals.
If you can’t make it to the city in time to take in events such as Fleet Week and the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival don’t fret. The city is hosting a number of noteworthy activities this fall including:
Mill Valley Film Festival
Movie buffs are already in San Francisco for this popular annual film festival. The event started out 30 years ago as venue for little known flicks to gain more exposure. In the decades that have followed it has grown into one of the industry’s major events, drawing big names, big crowds and big movies during its two-week run. This year, the stars are coming out to celebrate the festival’s 30th anniversary. Highlights include a tribute to filmmaker Ang Lee, films (and presentations) by Ben Affleck and Sean Penn, appearances by Jennifer Jason Leigh, Mark Ruffalo, Laura Linney and director Terry George. The festival will also host the premieres of Woody Allen’s Cassandra’s Dream and The Pixar Story. For more information on individual events and how to purchase tickets click here.
San Francisco Jazz Festival
Affectionately known as Jazzapalooza, the once locals-only event has exploded into an internationally acclaimed music festival. More than 30 events are scheduled to take place from October 17th to November 30th in venues all over San Francisco. This year, the festival celebrates its 25th anniversary with an all-star line-up. Jazz piano legends Herbie Hancock and Ahmad Jamal, along with alto sax titan Ornette Coleman are scheduled to perform.
San Francisco Symphony Season
If you think the Symphony’s new season is only cause for celebration among local Bay City residents, think again. My great aunt is flying in from Hawaii to attend performances. According to its website, the Symphony is scheduled to launch into a lively season of works from the classical canon as well as groundbreaking new compositions. Under the direction of celebrated conductor Michael Tilson Thomas, the orchestra will be performing Beethoven piano sonatas 1-4 with pianist András Schiff and Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony from November 28th – Decemeber1st. For a complete schedule of events click here.
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