Temple Emanu-El, on the border of San Francisco’s Richmond District, is home to one of the oldest Jewish congregations in California. The history of Congregation Emanu-El leads back to 1850, but the famous red-roofed dome that sits on the corner of Lake Street and Arguello Boulevard has just reached its centennial year.
Just in time for the anniversary, Temple Emanu-El is hosting Candlelight concerts to honor of music legends Adele and Michael Jackson in its historic, awe-inspiring interior.
Temple Emanu-El’s history in San Francisco
The Temple Emanu-El SF natives will recognize today was inaugurated in 1926, 20 years after the congregation’s Sutter Street synagogue was destroyed in the 1906 earthquake and fire. Designed by Author Brown Jr., best known for designing San Francisco City Hall, it was honored by the American Institute of Architects as the finest architectural spectacle of Northern California in 1927.
Beyond serving the congregation, the synagogue’s dramatic 150-foot dome has become a landmark for those wandering through San Francisco. From the ground, its recognizable red clay tiles mark the end of the Richmond District.
So emblematic is the building’s facade that when the temple underwent an extensive renovations from 2023 to 2025, the exterior was left mostly untouched. The renovations changed the interior almost entirely, however, adding 30,000 usable square feet and completely overhauling the main entrance.
20th-century architecture lovers need not fear, though, as the grand domed sanctuary remains in its original state. 2 years and $97 million later, Temple Emanu-El has not lost its historic charm.
Today, you can visit the domed sanctuary’s dizzying high ceilings and glittering stained glass windows, and see it for yourself!
What’s on at Temple Emanu-El?
Temple Emanu-El has a large variety of events on offer. Most of these are aimed towards the congregation, such as religious services, community gatherings, and holiday celebrations. However, the temple also hosts cultural events, such as panel discussions and skills workshops. Most notably, Temple Emanu-El opens its doors to the public for evenings of live music.
Under the 100-year-old dome, a string quartet is about to take on the King of Pop. Candlelight: Tribute to Michael Jackson is an hour-long tribute concert, where you can enjoy Michael Jackson’s greatest hits such as “Billie Jean”, “Bad”, and “Smooth Criminal” under glowing candlelight.
The venue will also honor another musical powerhouse on the same night with Candlelight: Tribute to Adele. Featuring classics of Adele’s discography such as “Someone Like You”, “Skyfall”, and “Rolling in the Deep”, the breathtaking candlelit sanctuary creates the perfect atmosphere to rediscover the singer’s most powerful ballads.
See the historic venue in a whole new light with an evening of pop music reimagined with a classical twist. The concerts will take place on Saturday, November 28, right on Thanksgiving weekend. Tickets to Candlelight: Tribute to Michael Jackson and Candlelight: Tribute to Adele are available now on Fever.
28 November 2026 17:30
Temple Emanu-El San Francisco
28 November 2026 19:45 + more dates
Temple Emanu-El San Francisco
Where is Temple Emanu-El and how to get there?
Temple Emanu-El is located on the corner of Lake Street and Arguello Boulevard, at 2 Lake St, San Francisco, CA 94118.
On public transport, the best way to get there is by Muni bus lines 1, 2, and 33, which stop close to the entrance. Alternatively, take line 38, alighting at Geary Boulevard and Arguello Boulevard.
Street parking is available near the temple, with additional parking sometimes provided for large-scale events.