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September is one of the most vibrant months to experience San Francisco. The city comes alive with a packed calendar of concerts, parades, cultural festivals, food and wine events, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re a local planning a weekend adventure or a traveler exploring the Bay Area, there’s something happening every day.
This ultimate guide to San Francisco events September 2025 covers major festivals, hidden gems, travel tips, and weekly highlights so you can plan your month around the city’s most exciting happenings.
Major San Francisco Events September 2025
1. San Francisco Opera in the Park
- Date: September 7, 2025
- Location: Sharon Meadow, Golden Gate Park
- Why Go: Experience a world-class opera performance outdoors, completely free.
Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy breathtaking performances surrounded by nature. Arrive early to grab a good spot — this annual event attracts thousands.
2. Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival
- Date: September 13–14, 2025
- Location: Ghirardelli Square
- Why Go: Chocolate lovers unite!
Taste gourmet truffles, enjoy dessert-inspired cocktails, and watch live chef demonstrations. The festival also supports local charities, making it delicious and meaningful.
3. San Francisco Fringe Festival
- Date: September 5–21, 2025
- Location: Multiple theaters across SF
- Why Go: Celebrate creativity with experimental plays, comedic acts, and innovative performances from local and international artists.
This is the Bay Area’s largest indie theater festival — and tickets are budget-friendly.
4. Folsom Street Fair
- Date: September 28, 2025
- Location: SoMa District
- Why Go: The world’s largest leather and fetish festival, attracting visitors globally.
Enjoy live performances, themed art installations, and an open, inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and freedom of expression.
5. San Francisco Giants Home Games
- Dates: Various throughout September 2025
- Location: Oracle Park
- Why Go: Watch Major League Baseball with a view of the Bay.
September is crunch time for the Giants, making every game extra exciting. Pair it with ballpark classics like garlic fries and craft beer.
Newly Featured Events for 2025
6. Chinatown Autumn Moon Festival
- Date: September 13–14, 2025
- Location: Chinatown
- Why Go: Immerse yourself in one of San Francisco’s most vibrant cultural traditions with lantern displays, dragon dances, and traditional mooncakes.
7. Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival
- Date: September 26–28, 2025
- Location: Golden Gate Park
- Why Go: A free, multi-day music festival featuring bluegrass, folk, rock, and indie artists.
Bring a blanket, some snacks, and get ready to jam with thousands of music lovers.
8. Eat Drink SF
- Date: September 20–22, 2025
- Location: Fort Mason Center
- Why Go: A culinary celebration featuring tastings, wine pairings, and cooking demos from San Francisco’s top chefs and mixologists.
9. Yerba Buena Gardens Festival
- Date: Ongoing through September
- Location: Yerba Buena Gardens
- Why Go: Enjoy free outdoor performances ranging from jazz and blues to global dance showcases.
10. Italian Heritage Parade & Festival
- Date: September 21, 2025
- Location: North Beach
- Why Go: Celebrate San Francisco’s rich Italian heritage with live music, street food, and family-friendly entertainment.
Weekly Breakdown of Events
First Week (Sept 1–7)
- Yerba Buena Gardens Festival performances
- Golden Gate Park weekend concerts
- Fringe Festival opening
Second Week (Sept 8–14)
- Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival
- Autumn Moon Festival
- Nightlife events around SoMa
Third Week (Sept 15–21)
- Italian Heritage Parade
- Eat Drink SF
- Giants home games
Fourth Week (Sept 22–30)
- Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival
- Folsom Street Fair
- Final Yerba Buena Gardens performances
Family-Friendly September Events
- Pier 39 Sea Lion Festival — Educational and fun for kids
- Exploratorium After Dark: Family Nights — Hands-on science exhibits
- Carnival at Crissy Field — Rides, games, and great food
Tips for Visiting San Francisco in September
Check Local Weather Updates: San Francisco microclimates vary by neighborhood.
Plan Ahead: Some events, like Eat Drink SF, sell out weeks in advance.
Dress in Layers: Evenings can get chilly despite sunny afternoons.
Use Public Transit: Avoid parking hassles and ride BART, Muni, or ferries.
Book Hotels Early: September attracts heavy tourism; secure accommodations in advance.
FAQ: San Francisco Events September 2025
Q1: What are the biggest events in San Francisco in September 2025?
Major highlights include the Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival, Opera in the Park, Folsom Street Fair, and the Autumn Moon Festival.
Q2: Are there free events in September 2025?
Yes! Many events like Opera in the Park, Yerba Buena Gardens Festival, and Film Night at Dolores Park are free.
Q3: Is September a good month to visit San Francisco?
Absolutely — it’s one of the warmest and sunniest months with endless festivals and outdoor activities.
Q4: Can families enjoy San Francisco events in September 2025?
Definitely. Events like the Kite Festival, Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival, and Autumn Moon Festival are perfect for kids and families.
Q5: Where can I buy tickets for September events?
Check the official event websites or platforms like Eventbrite, Ticketmaster, and SF Travel for up-to-date ticketing.
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