What’s Happening in San Francisco This Weekend (Sept 19-21, 2025)
San Francisco is buzzing this weekend! From massive music festivals to cultural block parties and food fests, the city is alive with things to do. Whether you’re heading to Portola Music Festival or want to wander through street fairs and cultural celebrations, here’s your weekend guide.
🎧 Portola Music Festival
The centerpiece of the weekend is Portola Festival, taking over Pier 80 on Saturday & Sunday (Sept 20-21). Expect some of the biggest names in electronic and dance music, epic visuals, and an unbeatable waterfront setting.
Festival Details:
📍 Location: Pier 80, 900 Marin St.
🚇 Getting There: There is no parking on-site — plan for public transit or rideshare.
🌬️ Weather: It gets windy by the water — pack layers.
📶 Pro Tip: Cell service is spotty; set group meeting points in advance.
🎟️ Tickets: Available here (21+ only).
Related Portola Week Events:
Pre-Portola Block Party on Ellis Street with food trucks, live art, and a set from Irish dance-music singer Jazzy.
After-parties & late-night shows at Public Works, Monarch, and other SF venues.
🌸 Flower Piano at the SF Botanical Garden
One of the city’s most magical annual events. Flower Piano brings 12 pianos hidden throughout Golden Gate Park’s Botanical Garden, with musicians performing everything from classical to jazz. Stroll, sip coffee, and catch beautiful sets surrounded by lush greenery.
🚘 King of the Streets Lowrider Parade & Car Show
A true SF cultural highlight: the King of the Streets parade celebrates lowrider culture with gleaming cars, music, and community pride. Expect vibrant photo ops, good food, and local vendors.
🍻 Oktoberfest on Front
Celebrate Bavarian-style with beer steins, bratwurst, and live music at the Oktoberfest on Front downtown block party. A fun choice for anyone who loves food festivals and a lively crowd.
🇬🇷 San Francisco Greek Festival
A local tradition! The SF Greek Festival runs all weekend long (Sept 19-21) with authentic food, live Greek music, and dancing. Great for families or anyone who wants to taste and experience Greek culture.
🇪🇺 Europe in the Park
A charming, free festival in Golden Gate Park offering a “trip to Europe” with food, art, and live performances from across the continent. Check out the event info.
✨ Quick Tips for the Weekend
Crowds & transit: Expect delays, especially around Portola. Leave early.
Bring layers: Nights by the water get chilly, even after sunny afternoons.
Stay flexible: So many events are happening, you can easily pivot if one is too crowded.
Free options: Many cultural fests (Greek Festival, Europe in the Park, Flower Piano) are free or donation-based.
Plan Your SF Weekend
Whether you’re dancing at Portola, exploring Flower Piano, or eating your way through Oktoberfest on Front, this weekend is packed with reasons to get out and soak up the city.
👉 Which event are you hitting first?