San Francisco Fleet Week is officially here, which means the city will be packed with events, including the iconic airshows and ship tours. Along with the typical Fleet Week events, San Franciscans can start the weekend with a free block party in Downtown, complete with a nostalgic theme, live music, and wholesome competitions.
Downtown San Francisco’s Free Fleet Week Block Party
On Friday, October 9, SF is shutting down a block in downtown for a free block party, complete with a Yacht Rock theme. Earlier in the day, San Franciscans can see the Parade of Ships at 11 a.m., followed by the weekend’s first airshow from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. The party is part of the Fridays on Front Street event series and will run from 4 to 9 p.m. with live music, drinks, street performers, and more.
The party is fully embracing 70s and 80s nostalgia, and the live music lineup features Daryl Hall & John Oates tribute band Haulin’ Oats, with San Francisco band WONDER BREAD 5 set to headline the party. Attendees can even enter a Yacht Rock lip-sync battle or battle it out for the best facial hair at the mustache competition. The 1986 classic Top Gun will play on the outdoor screen, a perfect fit for Fleet Week.
If you want to fully embrace the Yacht Rock theme, head to the Beauty Bar, which transports you back to the 80s with big hair, bright blue eyeshadow, and temporary tattoos. To complete your 80s transformation, the party will also have a vintage market with clothes from the 70s and 80s.
You can also grab drinks and bites at local bars Harrington’s and Schroeders on the block. While the party ends at 9 pm, the bars will stay open later. Plus, the first 100 attendees will receive free captain hats.
The block party is free to attend and open to all ages. The Front Street entertainment zone is located on Front Street between Sacramento Street and California Street.