Your Guide to San Francisco’s Biggest Festivals, Concerts & Events This August 2026
August is one of the best months to visit San Francisco. The city’s parks fill with live music, downtown streets come alive with cultural celebrations, and major conventions bring innovators from around the world to the Bay Area. Whether you’re planning a summer getaway, attending a conference, or looking for an unforgettable weekend in the city, there’s no shortage of reasons to be here.
At Handlery Union Square Hotel, you’ll be perfectly positioned to experience it all. Located in the heart of Union Square, our hotel offers easy access to public transportation, world-class shopping, restaurants, and many of San Francisco’s biggest August events.
Here’s a look at what’s happening around the city this month.
Outside Lands Returned to Golden Gate Park
August 7-9, 2026 | Golden Gate Park
If there’s one event that defines San Francisco in August, it’s Outside Lands. Earlier this month, Golden Gate Park once again transformed into a massive celebration of music, food, art, wine, craft beer, and Bay Area culture. This year’s lineup included Empire of the Sun on Sunday and acclaimed DJ Yousuke Yukimatsu on Friday, alongside dozens of other artists performing across multiple stages. One of the best things about staying at Handlery Union Square Hotel is how easy it is to get there—Powell Street Station is just steps from our front door, making Golden Gate Park easily accessible by Muni.
August 7-9, 2026 | Golden Gate Park
If there’s one event that defines San Francisco in August, it’s Outside Lands. Earlier this month, Golden Gate Park once again transformed into a massive celebration of music, food, art, wine, craft beer, and Bay Area culture. This year’s lineup included Empire of the Sun on Sunday and acclaimed DJ Yousuke Yukimatsu on Friday, alongside dozens of other artists performing across multiple stages. One of the best things about staying at Handlery Union Square Hotel is how easy it is to get there—Powell Street Station is just steps from our front door, making Golden Gate Park easily accessible by Muni.
If you missed this year’s festival, don’t worry—there’s still plenty to experience in San Francisco this August!
Spend a Sunday at the Famous Stern Grove Festival
Violent Femmes: August 2, 2026 at 12:00 PM
Al Green: August 16, 2026 at 12:00 PM
Stern Grove
For over 85 years, Stern Grove Festival has been one of San Francisco’s most beloved summer traditions. Set beneath towering eucalyptus trees in a natural amphitheater, the festival brings world-renowned performers to the city for free outdoor concerts.
Violent Femmes: August 2, 2026 at 12:00 PM
Al Green: August 16, 2026 at 12:00 PM
Stern Grove
For over 85 years, Stern Grove Festival has been one of San Francisco’s most beloved summer traditions. Set beneath towering eucalyptus trees in a natural amphitheater, the festival brings world-renowned performers to the city for free outdoor concerts.
Alternative rock legends Violent Femmes took the stage on August 2, while soul icon Al Green performs on August 16. Both shows begin at noon and offer an unforgettable way to experience San Francisco’s unique outdoor concert scene. From Union Square, Stern Grove is just a short rideshare trip away.
Celebrate Culture Across Downtown San Francisco where some of the city’s most memorable August experiences are completely free.
AfroSolo Presents: Fely Tchaco
August 6, 2026 | 12:30 PM | Yerba Buena Gardens
Enjoy an afternoon performance highlighting African and African American artistic expression in the beautiful setting of Yerba Buena Gardens.
August 6, 2026 | 12:30 PM | Yerba Buena Gardens
Enjoy an afternoon performance highlighting African and African American artistic expression in the beautiful setting of Yerba Buena Gardens.
Salsa Night with Edgardo Cambón August 6, 2026 | 6:00 PM | Yerba Buena Gardens
Later that evening, join locals and visitors for a lively outdoor salsa celebration featuring live music and dancing under the San Francisco skyline.
Later that evening, join locals and visitors for a lively outdoor salsa celebration featuring live music and dancing under the San Francisco skyline.
Pistahan Parade & Festival
August 8-9, 2026 | Downtown San Francisco
One of the largest Filipino cultural celebrations in the United States, Pistahan brings together food, music, performances, community organizations, and a colorful annual parade that fills downtown with energy.
August 8-9, 2026 | Downtown San Francisco
One of the largest Filipino cultural celebrations in the United States, Pistahan brings together food, music, performances, community organizations, and a colorful annual parade that fills downtown with energy.
Because Yerba Buena Gardens and Market Street are within walking distance of Handlery Union Square Hotel, you can easily enjoy these events without worrying about transportation.
Enjoy Free Lunchtime Concerts Downtown.