News of The Bay Lights returning to the Bay Bridge has been welcomed by San Franciscans, who are eagerly awaiting the lights’ official return after the massive public installation closed in 2023.
Since then, the light installation has been re-imagined, with twice as many LED lights for the 2026 iteration. Now, the beloved installation will officially be unveiled tomorrow night, on Friday, March 20.
Illuminate, the nonprofit responsible for the installation, will host a waterfront celebration to unveil the lights this Friday. Multiple speakers will present in front of Waterbar, and it is free to attend. Space will be limited, but you can watch still watch the remarks from home via Illuminate’s live stream on Instagram.
“The Bay Lights belong to San Francisco,” said Ben Davis, Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Illuminate. “They’re a reminder that beauty can live at the scale of infrastructure — and that awe can be part of a city’s identity.”
Where to view The Bay Lights
The wonderful thing about The Bay Lights is that you can see them from various points throughout the city. However, there are some particularly great viewing spots hosting celebrations this Friday.
Big Art Loop is hosting a viewing celebration between Pier 14 and Brannan Street Wharf, which spans a stretch of the waterfront with ideal views of the bridge. Big Art Loop is a new initiative installing 100 large-scale artworks along a 34-mile loop around San Francisco. The loop includes part of the Embarcadero that is perfect for viewing The Bay Lights.
The 1 Hotel is also hosting a viewing party on the Terrene Patio, which faces the bridge. You can expect cocktails and light bites during the event, from 5 to 8 pm.
We also recommend heading to Rincon Park, which is situated right on the western side of the Bridge with a wonderful view of the lights. Bring a picnic blanket and some snacks, and enjoy the view (plus, the warm weather makes it the perfect evening for a picnic).
