Efforts to revitalize San Francisco’s downtown have been numerous, with programs offering free rent for small businesses, numerous free concerts from major headliners, and now, entertainment zones.
The first entertainment zone in California opened earlier this fall in Downtown SF on Front Street. The small area encompasses several downtown bars and restaurants, which have hosted block parties that allow to-go beverages. The parties have been a hit, drawing lively crowds, and participating businesses reported a 1,500% increase in sales at the debut event.
Now, San Francisco’s second entertainment zone has officially been announced as Thrive City at the Chase Center. The location isn’t a surprising pick, with 11 acres in the complex that includes the home of the Warriors and hosts many major concerts throughout the year. The complex includes many restaurants, retail shops, and bars that the city hopes will benefit from the new entertainment zone.
…We have seen the significant boost in economic benefit for our bar and restaurant partners on Front Street in both City sanctioned entertainment zone events, and our goal is to expand these benefits across the City to help strengthen San Francisco’s Downtown and neighborhoods citywide. Mayor London Breed said in a press release announcing the new entertainment zone. We are thrilled to announce the expansion of entertainment zones to a space that needs no introduction on how to have a good time, to help bolster the vibrancy and energy already underway at Thrive City…
The new zone will have its first official event on November 30 for the tree lighting ceremony for the Winter Wonderland series. The event is free and open to the public, complete with a massive 90-foot Christmas tree and a live performance by Montell Jordan.