We’re heading into the last weekend of summer, and while there are some outdoor events (including the last weekend of Flower Piano), you can also head inside for some dance, theater, art, and more. Read on for my picks.
Thursday, Sept. 18
Alonso King’s internationally acclaimed ballet, Deep River, “fuses dance with Black spirituals and Jewish liturgical music in a powerful reflection on love, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit,” which had me right there. It’s also “been praised for its beauty, emotional depth, and spiritual force … [with] soaring vocals … and an evocative score.” Sounds like a not-to-miss. Through Sunday, with additional performances due to popular demand on Nov. 1. Tickets from $42
Friday, Sept. 19
Don’t miss the 74th annual Greek Food Festival for your favorite spanakopita, moussaka, gyros, and more, including desserts and wine (for purchase). Browse a variety of vendors, and enjoy traditional award-winning folk dance groups and classic Greek music. 11 a.m. through Sunday. Free.
Time to grab your lederhosen and dirndls for the big Oktoberfest on Front block party. Expect lots of bier, Bierstiefel, pretzels (real and inflatable), bratwurst, sauerkraut, live music, games, and lots of people. 2–10 p.m. Free.
Saturday, Sept. 20
Have you been to Flower Piano yet? If not, you have two more chances (today and Sunday). Today’s Flower Piano Lounge entertainment (The Kevin Gerzevitz Trio, Kash Killion, Killion’s Trillions, and Lavay Smith and the Red Hot Skillet Lickers) is from noon to 7:30 p.m. Free (Flower Piano for San Francisco residents; others from $7; (Flower Piano Lounge). $50
While Muni’s summer vintage streetcar service is happening until mid-October, there’s even more Muni this weekend at the Muni Heritage Weekend, with two Blackpool Boat Trams (1934), Muni No. 1 (1912), the “Dinky” streetcar (1896), joined by some vintage buses and cable cars. Round-trip rides will depart from the Market Street Railway Museum, where there will be interactive exhibits, family-friendly activities, and hands-on experiences. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free.
Sunday, Sept. 21
Here’s my Sunday Suggestion: If you’re not one of the 85,000 visitors who have seen Paul McCartney Photographs 1963–64: Eyes of the Storm at the deYoung, which has been extended (the first time on its worldwide tour) until Oct. 5, combine that with the Golden Gate Park Band’s “Ole!” Spanish Cultural Celebration with performers from Toque Tercero Flamenco (1 p.m.) (Next weekend is the band’s final concert for the season, BTW.) Free (concert); $35 (exhibition).
Notable next week
Tuesday, Sept. 23
Twilight fans won’t want to miss Twilight in Concert, the original film on a full-size cinema screen accompanied by a 12-piece ensemble of rock and orchestral musicians and illuminated with over a thousand candles. Tickets from $116.
Wednesday, Sept. 24
Who doesn’t love Les Misérables? I wore a Cosette t-shirt for years after the first production (which I probably should have kept because the graphic is timeless). One of the world’s most popular musicals, the 2025 production has been highly acclaimed for the cast and staging. Through Oct. 4. Tickets from $73.
Well, that’s what I have, folks. Be safe and enjoy your weekend, whatever you decide to do.