Special Events in Golden Gate Park

Crowded festival with colorful lights projected on the trees

Golden Gate Park is host to a wide range of special events throughout the year, from music and food festivals to foot races and holiday family events.

Note: Certain roads in Golden Gate Park may be closed during special events. See our complete list of Golden Gate Park Road Closures .

Concerts and Festivals

Outside Lands Music & Arts Festival

Taking place each August, Outside Lands features dozens of bands, local food vendors, and visual artists. This green-conscious event directly benefits the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department through a significant annual permit fee and community donations that support parks citywide.

Visit the Outside Lands Website

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival

Each October, this free, three-day concert features an eclectic mix of musical genres. Conceived and subsidized by the late Warren Hellman, it has been a park tradition since 2001.

Visit the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Website

Opera in the Park

Celebrate community and artistry with this free outdoor concert in September. Held at Robin Williams Meadow , it features a mix of operatic favorites and pop classics.

Visit the SF Opera in the Park Website

Comedy Day

Since 1981, this five-hour show has featured nearly 1,000 comedians performing free of charge at Robin Williams Meadow every September.

Visit the Comedy Day Website

Family-Friendly Events

Tree Lighting at McLaren Lodge

The holiday tree at McLaren Lodge illuminated with lights

Each December, we kick off the season with carnival rides, games, and a visit from Santa at McLaren Lodge. The event also features a special lighting of the Conservatory of Flowers.