While some may think of Downtown SF as empty and quiet, this free event is bringing new life to the neighborhood. Once a month, a lively street party breaks out, complete with DJs, drag performances, and even disco. The Downtown First Thursdays event debuted in May 2024 as part of ongoing efforts to revitalize SF’s downtown. The event has drawn large crowds to what many people are calling an empty downtown as it showcases lively performances and activations.
Fresh after their packed Coachella sets, DJ duo Snakehips will perform for the May 2025 event this week. The electronic music DJs are known for hits like “All My Friends, Don’t Leave, Cruel, and more. They’ve collaborated with other major artists, including Zayn Malik, Anderson. Paak, MØ, Chance the Rapper, and more. Snakehips is currently touring, and after their show at Downtown First Thursdays in SF, the duo will perform in New York City the next night. You can see Snakehips at the next Downtown First Thursdays from 7:45 to 9 pm on May 1, 2025. You can find the main stage at the corner of Howard and 2nd Street, and we recommend getting there early to try some of the local vendors before the show.
For the rest of the party, San Franciscans can expect a massive disco ball in the streets and local DJs mixing away to the crowds. Past events have included drag shows, art activations, and plenty of kid-friendly activities.
The street party is primarily on Second Street between Market and Howard. Surrounded by plenty of businesses, including restaurants and bars, the crowds can easily stop for a bite or drink. Nearby restaurants include The Bird, Mehfil Indian Cuisine, Uno Dos Tacos, and more. Two beer gardens host those 21 and over, one located outside 111 Minna Gallery and another outside Natoma Cabana. Past performers at the free event include Rebecca Black and Toro y Moi, with massive crowds gathering to watch the shows. This month, the event is expanding with a western-themed party on Front Street, called Downtown Hoedown. The event will include live music, a mechanical bull, line dancing, and more.
Nearby museums such as MoAD and SFMOMA also join in the fun. SFMOMA is free on the first Thursday of every month, coinciding with the event. The program is run by Into The Streets, a SF production studio specializing in civic and cultural events. The studio has numerous successful programs, including the Sunset Night Market, Bhangra and Beats, and more.
Downtown First Thursdays happen on 2nd Street between Market and Howard in SF. The fun starts at five and ends at 10 pm. All ages are welcome at the event.