San Francisco’s popular free block party is back this week for another night of live music, fun activities, and more. The April edition of Downtown First Thursdays is scheduled for April 2 from 5 to 10 pm, rain or shine.
The lineup for this month’s free block party features Reggie Watts, DJ well known for his improvised set. Watts previously was the bandleader on The Late Show Wth James Corden, and he also was the DJ for the 2021 Emmy Awards. He is known for his comedic performances filled with improvisation. Watts will perform at the free block party on the main stage starting at 7:45 pm until 9 pm.
Downtown First Thursdays covers two blocks in Downtown SF, including several small alleys. Other featured activities for April’s block party include a happy hour on the Howard Stage, featuring a dance party with a biggest bubble competition. Other activities include bingo, a discoteca, and a market with local vendors.
You can also look forward to karaoke, one of the most popular activities at the block party. This month also features an educational program, called The Symposium, which features a talk from Howard Blecher on San Francisco’s architecture.
The free block parties will run throughout 2026, with each event featuring a different headlining performer. Past headliners have included Rebecca Black and Toro y Moi. The block party is free and family-friendly, but there will be areas selling drinks for those 21 and over.
Check out the next Downtown First Thursdays on April 2, 2026, at 2nd Street between Market and Howard. We recommend taking public transit or ride share to the event, as parking may be difficult to find.
