Business Details
Free Outdoor Performing Arts in San Francisco
We are an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape of San Francisco through free, high-quality outdoor performing arts. Our programming spans six months annually, showcasing the Bay Area's diverse artistic talent in music, dance, theater, and spoken word. All performances are family-friendly and fully accessible to individuals with disabilities. Recognized for our community impact, we received the Yerba Buena Community Benefit District's 2018 Excellence in Community Placemaking Award. Our mission is to create inclusive public spaces where art and community thrive together.We curate flagship series like Weekend Sessions, Salsa Nights, and Thursday Lunchtime Concerts, alongside special projects that commission new works from local artists. As stewards of this vibrant tradition, we ensure our programs remain free and accessible to all audiences. Our office at 760 Howard Street serves as the hub for planning and community engagement. Through strategic partnerships and community input, we continue to evolve while maintaining our core commitment to artistic excellence and public access.
Services
Weekend Sessions
Salsa Nights
Lunchtime Concerts
Poetry Events
Children's Shows
Special Projects
Highlights and features
- We offer 6 months of free, high-quality cultural programming annually
- Our events showcase diverse Bay Area artistic talent
- All performances are family-friendly and ADA accessible
- We commission new works through special artist residency programs
- Recognized for excellence in community placemaking
Services
Weekend Sessions
Our flagship series delivers world-class music, dance, and theater performances every weekend. These outdoor events feature diverse Bay Area artists in a vibrant, communal setting. Each session offers unique cultural experiences that celebrate artistic innovation and community engagement through live performances.
Salsa Nights
Experience lively Latin music under the stars with our popular Salsa Nights events. These outdoor dance parties feature top Bay Area bands and welcome all skill levels. No dance partner required - just bring friends and enjoy the infectious rhythms in a festive atmosphere.
Lunchtime Concerts
Enjoy one-hour musical performances during weekday lunch breaks in downtown San Francisco. These intimate concerts showcase local bands and provide a refreshing cultural escape for office workers. The free events create a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Poetic Tuesdays
Discover the Bay Area's rich literary scene through curated poetry readings and musical performances. Each event features four Litquake-selected poets plus a special musical guest. These free outdoor events bring literary arts to life in an accessible, engaging format for all audiences.
Children's Garden Series
Interactive half-hour shows designed for children under 10 and their families. These free performances feature age-appropriate entertainment that sparks creativity and cultural appreciation. School groups and camps are welcome to participate in these educational, family-friendly programs.
Questions
Are all events free to attend?
Yes, all Yerba Buena Gardens Festival performances are completely free and open to the public with no admission charges.
What accessibility features are available?
All performances are ADA accessible with designated viewing areas for wheelchair users and companion seating available throughout the venue spaces.
Can I bring children to the events?
Absolutely! Our programming includes family-friendly performances like the Children's Garden Series specifically designed for young audiences.
How long do performances typically last?
Most events run 1-2 hours, with specific durations listed in the event calendar. The Children's Garden Series features shorter 30-minute performances.
Are food and drinks available?
While we don't sell food on-site, visitors may bring their own refreshments to enjoy during outdoor performances in Yerba Buena Gardens.
How can I support the Festival?
You can support our free programming through donations, corporate sponsorships, or by participating in our volunteer program to help maintain accessible cultural events.
Videos
Reviews (7)
Souphad Thao
Nov 16, 2021
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Yerba garden is my favorite spot in SF it's not that big but it's a beautiful place at times there's events that take place which I really appreciate along with all the vistors I go there to gather my thoughts and as they say it to be one with nature everything about the Garden is a huge blessing is the cup half empty or half full I rather count my blessings
Jason Dewes
Sep 04, 2021
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It is a wonderful place to practice lightsaber battles. Get nerf toy wars. Sorry about mess up the event that was there. We were having fun
Philip Gissen
Jan 27, 2020
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On Saturday August 3rd, 2019, I was privileged to see and hear a concert by the AfroSolo All Stars held at the Yerba Buena Gardens. Piano master Tammy Hall, Veteran drummer Leon Joyce Jr., Renowned bassist/composer Marcus Shelby, captivating harpist/vocalist Destiny Muhammad and rising young Oakland saxophonist Ranzel Merritt, filled this glorious afternoon with the sounds of world class jazz. It was an amazing event, and something I will never forget.
Bernardo Gulen
Dec 06, 2019
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A good place to stay and relax. Restaurants are neat by. Lots of events. People are friendly. Nearby able to play bowling, pingpong, chess, etc. Also hotels are close by..
TammyT
Oct 21, 2019
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Great park to enjoy lunch feom the Metreon. Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial waterfall is here. St Patrick Catholic church nearby. Near Moscone convention center. Beautiful flowers.
J. Francisco
Oct 09, 2016
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I love the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival! It is a beautiful space, and the musicians and artists chosen to perform are amazingly talented, and it's always fun to go see a show there. And it's free!!! In fact, I had knee surgery several years ago, and a week into my recovery I still managed to get myself to the Gardens to catch the show, crutches and all. I wasn't supposed to be on my feet, but I knew it was worth the risk :)
Sedey Gebreyes
Sep 01, 2016
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Amazing performances by world renown artists, relaxing atmosphere, multicultural and family friendly programming at one of the most beautiful parks. Overall, the festival embodies the spirit of San Francisco.
