Union Square is at the heart of Downtown San Francisco, which has been slow to recover from the 2020 pandemic. Efforts to revitalize the neighborhood have been significant, with programs encouraging small businesses to open storefronts in downtown and free events, including concerts and movie screenings, happening every few months.
Union Square has hosted various community programs in recent months, and organizers have announced that the free programming will continue through the summer of 2027. Some of the programming San Franciscans can expect includes sketching classes on Mondays, Blues music on Tuesdays, and even cardio workouts on Wednesdays. You can also take a juggling lesson on the weekends, or learn how to play mahjong. There will be live music on Thursday afternoons, and chess socials and lessons on Fridays.
Plus, you can look forward to amenities such as tables and chairs, as well as dedicated programming areas, including a kids’ zone and a reading room. Pingpong, badminton, and foosball will also be available to the public
“Creative programming ensures one of the city’s most historic and recognizable public spaces remains vibrant and welcoming. From live music to activities for all ages, these everyday moments don’t just bring people to Union Square—they help strengthen downtown and keep it lively, dynamic, and full of things to do,” said Sarah Madland, Interim Recreation and Park Department General Manager. “Our parks and plazas are places where people find joy and make lasting memories, and the city’s partnership with BRV helps make that happen every day.”
Along with the regular weekly activations, special events will be announced throughout the upcoming summer and fall. The programming is the work of a partnership between San Francisco and Biederman Redevelopment Ventures Corporation (BRV), which has worked on programming for Salesforce Park and Bryant Park in New York City.
You can learn more about the Union Square programming here.