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Cupertino

Memorial Park Amphitheater

Since 1993, Cupertino’s Memorial Park Amphitheater has hosted SF Shakes’ Free Shakespeare in the Park.  Featuring terraced and hillside amphitheater seating along with ample adjacent park space, facilities, and parking, the amphitheater is conveniently located on the main thoroughfare of Steven’s Creek Boulevard with plenty of nearby amenities and food options.

2024 schedule

Below is the schedule for the three weekends of Free Shakespeare in the Park 2024 performances of The Tempest in Cupertino.  All shows begin at 6pm and run for approximately 100 minutes with no intermission.

Help spread the word and invite your friends and neighbors!  Share this flyer and these event listings on Eventbrite, Facebook, and LinkedIn

* Preview show (preview shows allow the cast and crew to to make adjustments before opening in each venue; all are welcome to attend these complete performances.)
+ Opening show

*Sat July 20 – 6pm
*Sun July 21 – 6pm

*Sat July 27 – 6pm
*Sun July 28 – 6pm

+Sat Aug 3 – 6pm
Sun Aug 4 – 6pm

location & transportation

LOCATION
Cupertino’s Memorial Park Amphitheater is located at 21163 Anton Way, near the intersection of Stevens Creek Boulevard and Anton Way, 1/4 mile east of Highway 85.

PARKING
Free public parking is available in the area, options include:
  • The Senior Center parking lot off Mary Ave
  • The Quinlan Center lot at Stelling Rd and Alves Dr.
  • The parking lot off Alves Dr
  • Street parking on Alves Dr.
  • Note that parking along Anton Way is not allowed.

TRANSIT
The area is serviced by the Rapid 23 and 523 lines, with stops at the nearby intersection of Stevens Creek Blvd and Stelling Rd.
The nearest Caltrain stop is the Sunnyvale station.

food

Unlike in many theaters, at Free Shakes in the Park you’re welcome to bring in all the food and beverages you like!  The Rotary Club of Cupertino will be selling light refreshments before the show. Cupertino also offers many culinary options in the vicinity, and here are a few of our favorites from the immediate surrounding area:

  • Whole Foods Market (including Dosateria and Market Cocina) – 20955 Stevens Creek Blvd.
  • Ike’s Sandwiches – 21000 Stevens Creek Blvd.
  • Tasty Pizza – 21000 Stevens Creek Blvd.
  • Panda Express – 21000 Stevens Creek Blvd.
  • Mr. Sun Tea – 20950 Stevens Creek Blvd.
  • Voyager Craft Coffee – 20807 Stevens Creek Blvd.
  • Panera Bread – 20807 Stevens Creek Blvd.
  • Target (including Starbucks) – 20745 Stevens Creek Blvd.
  • Dish n’ Dash (Middle Eastern) – 20750 Stevens Creek Blvd.
  • The Habit Burger Grill – 20735 Stevens Creek Blvd.
  • Paris Baguette – 20735 Stevens Creek Blvd.

tips for attending

PHOTO / VIDEO
  • Due to actors’ union rules, photography and videography of the performance are not allowed.  Guests taking photos will be asked by staff to delete them.
  • SF Shakes’ in-house photographers are exempted from this restriction.

SEATING
  • All shows are free to the public.  No reservations or tickets are required and all seating is general and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Feel free to arrive early to claim your ideal seating location with chair or blanket placeholders.  The earliest guests begin arriving several hours before showtime but available seating remains throughout the course of the performance.
  • Cupertino Memorial Park Amphitheater features both terraced concrete seating and grassy hillside seating.
  • The amphitheater is accessible to wheelchairs and a limited amount of accessible ground-level paved area is available near the front of the seating area.
  • Throughout the performance, including for late arrivals, please take care not to disrupt the show for other patrons by walking in front of the stage.  Enter/exit at the sides or rear of the seating area.
  • Aisles and walkways will be marked, and should be kept clear at all times for the safety of actors and audience.

CHAIRS
  • Lawn / folding chairs are welcome.  To ensure visibility for all guests, those bringing taller chairs will be asked to sit behind the signage delineating tall/short chair areas.
  • A tall chair is defined as one whose seat measures more than 12 inches off the ground.

WHAT TO BRING
  • Prepare for the sun by bringing sunscreen, water, and a visor/hat/sunglasses or small umbrella.  There is limited shade in the amphitheater and it moves throughout the course of the show.
  • Blankets or ground covers are recommended on dirt and grassy areas.
  • A picnic!
  • Strollers are allowed, provided they are folded down during the performance and not blocking walkways or aisles.
  • Layered clothing options.  All shows have the potential to start out hot and end chilly.

WHAT NOT TO BRING
  • To ensure visibility for all guests, tents, large umbrellas or shade structures, and tall tables are not allowed within the main seating area.

FACILITIES
  • ADA accessible restrooms and a water fountain are located behind the amphitheater near the playground.  From seated in the amphitheater, head left along the pathway.
  • Trash and recycling receptacles are located to both sides of the stage, at the top of the hill, and throughout the park.  Please clean up after yourself.
  • The Hospitality Table is located to the right of the stage when seated in the amphitheater.  Visit the table for information or assistance or to make a donation.
  • Lost and found items are stored at the Hospitality Table.  After the performance, call the SF Shakes office at 415-558-0888

SAFETY
  • For any medical issues, security concerns, or other emergencies please visit the Hospitality Table or contact any SF Shakes staff member.

CANCELLATIONS
  • Performances are rarely cancelled, but in the event of extreme heat or rain, unhealthy air quality, or other natural or public health emergencies, a show may be modified or cancelled.  Cancellation decisions are often made shortly before showtime but every effort is made to notify the public as soon as possible.  Cancellation announcements will be posted in the park and on our website and social media.

Redwood City

Red Morton Park

Since 2012, Redwood City has hosted SF Shakes’ Free Shakespeare in the Park.  Initially staged on the grounds of Sequoia High School, performances have  moved to Red Morton Park, centrally located and featuring ample lawn space and an elaborate adjacent playground area, athletic fields, and skate park.

2024 schedule

Below is the schedule for the three weekends of Free Shakespeare in the Park 2024 performances of The Tempest in Redwood City.  All shows begin at 6pm and run for approximately 100 minutes with no intermission.

Help spread the word and invite your friends and neighbors! Share this flyer and these event listings on Eventbrite, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

* Preview show (preview shows allow the cast and crew to to make adjustments before opening in each venue; all are welcome to attend these complete performances.)
+ Opening show

*Sat Aug 10 – 6pm
+Sun Aug 11 – 6pm

Sat Aug 17 – 6pm
Sun Aug 18 – 6pm

Sat Aug 24 – 6pm
Sun Aug 25 – 6pm

location & transportation

LOCATION
The Free Shakes in the Park performance area is situated in the southwest corner of the park, near the intersection of Vera Ave. and Valota Rd.

PARKING
Free public parking is available in the area, options include:
  • Parking lots serving the Veteran’s Center on St. Francis St. and Vera Ave.
  • Street parking on St Francis St, Madison Ave, and Vera Ave.
  • National Guard and Bechet Field parking lots off Valota Rd.
  • Community Activities Building parking lot off Roosevelt Ave.

TRANSIT
The SamTrans ECR line’s nearest stop is at the corner of El Camino and Jefferson Ave, 1 mile away.
The nearest Caltrain stop is the Redwood City station, near El Camino and James Ave, 1 mile away.

food

Unlike in many theaters, at Free Shakes in the Park you’re welcome to bring in all the food and beverages you like!  We no longer offer concessions for sale onsite, so be sure to patronize a local business and stock your picnic on the way in.  Redwood City offers many culinary options in the vicinity, and here are a few of our nearby favorites:

  • Mountain Mike’s Pizza – 3121 Jefferson Ave.
  • Oh Baby Sushi – 2139 Roosevelt Ave.
  • Prima Deli – 2115 Roosevelt Ave.
  • Chez Nous Cafe – 2159 Roosevelt Ave.
  • Whole Foods Market – 1250 Jefferson Ave.
  • Taqueria El Grullense – 1280 El Camino Real
  • Safeway – 1071 El Camino Real
  • The Habit Burger Grill – 1111 El Camino Real
  • Jamba Juice – 1007 El Camino Real
  • City Pub – 2620 Broadway
  • Ike’s Sandwiches – 2655 Broadway

tips for attending

PHOTO / VIDEO
  • Due to actors’ union rules, photography and videography of the performance are not allowed.  Guests taking photos will be asked by staff to delete them.
  • SF Shakes’ in-house photographers are exempted from this restriction.

SEATING
  • All shows are free to the public.  No reservations or tickets are required and all seating is general and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Feel free to arrive early to claim your ideal seating location with chair or blanket placeholders.  The earliest guests begin arriving several hours before showtime but available seating remains throughout the course of the performance.
  • Red Morton Park features a large, flat, semi-grassy lawn area.
  • The park is accessible to wheelchairs and plenty of level grassy area is available in the seating area.
  • Throughout the performance, including for late arrivals, please take care not to disrupt the show for other patrons by walking in front of the stage.  Enter/exit at the sides or rear of the seating area.
  • Aisles and walkways will be marked, and should be kept clear at all times for the safety of actors and audience.

CHAIRS
  • Lawn / folding chairs are welcome.  To ensure visibility for all guests, those bringing taller chairs will be asked to sit behind the signage delineating tall/short chair areas.
  • A tall chair is defined as one whose seat measures more than 12 inches off the ground.

WHAT TO BRING
  • Prepare for the sun by bringing sunscreen, water, and a visor/hat/sunglasses or small umbrella.  There is limited shade in the park and it moves throughout the course of the show.
  • Blankets or ground covers are recommended on dirt and grassy areas.
  • A picnic!
  • Strollers are allowed, provided they are folded down during the performance and not blocking walkways or aisles.
  • Layered clothing options.  All shows have the potential to start out hot and end chilly.

WHAT NOT TO BRING
  • To ensure visibility for all guests, tents, large umbrellas or shade structures, and tall tables are not allowed within the main seating area.

FACILITIES
  • ADA accessible restrooms and a water fountain are located behind the Magical Bridge Playground, off the Bechet Field parking lot.  From seated in our field, turn around and head straight back and around the right side of the playground.
  • Trash and recycling receptacles are located throughout the park.  Please clean up after yourself.
  • The Hospitality Table is located to the left of the stage when seated in the field.  Visit the table for information or assistance or to make a donation.
  • Lost and found items are stored at the Hospitality Table.  After the performance, call the SF Shakes office at 415-558-0888

SAFETY
  • For any medical issues, security concerns, or other emergencies please visit the Hospitality Table or contact any SF Shakes staff member.

CANCELLATIONS
  • Performances are rarely cancelled, but in the event of extreme heat or rain, unhealthy air quality, or other natural or public health emergencies, a show may be modified or cancelled.  Cancellation decisions are often made shortly before showtime but every effort is made to notify the public as soon as possible.  Cancellation announcements will be posted in the park and on our website and social media.

San Francisco

McLaren Park – Jerry Garcia Amphitheater

The very first of SF Shakes’ Free Shakespeare in the Park performances were held over 40 years ago in Golden Gate Park.  In the ensuing years our performance space moved to the Presidio in 2000, and in 2013 we added McLaren Park, where we still proudly celebrate our hallmark Labor Day weekend performances.  Featuring a stunning wooded setting with bleacher and hillside amphitheater seating along with ample adjacent park space, amenities, and parking, Jerry Garcia Amphitheater is the hidden jewel of San Francisco’s second largest park.

2024 schedule

Below is the schedule for the two weekends of Free Shakespeare in the Park 2024 performances of The Tempest in San Francisco’s McLaren Park.  All shows begin at 2pm and run for approximately 100 minutes with no intermission.

Help spread the word and invite your friends and neighbors! Share this flyer and these event listings on Eventbrite, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

* Preview show (preview shows allow the cast and crew to to make adjustments before opening in each venue; all are welcome to attend these complete performances.)
+ Opening show

*Sat Aug 31 – 2pm
*Sun Sept 1 – 2pm
+Mon Sept 2 – 2pm

Sat Sept 7 – 2pm
Sun Sept 8 – 2pm

location & transportation

LOCATION
Jerry Garcia Amphitheater is located in San Francisco’s McLaren Park, off John F. Shelley Dr. between Cambridge St. and Mansell St.  The amphitheater itself is set back in the woods and not visible from the street, so look for signs denoting the amphitheater parking lots.


PARKING
Free public parking is available in the area, options include:

  • The main parking lot southeast of the amphitheater off John F Shelley Dr.  Look for the sign denoting “Amphitheater Parking”. From this lot, follow the path for 1/4 mile to reach the amphitheater.
  • A limited number of handicapped parking spaces are available in the small lot to the immediate northeast of the amphitheater.  Look for a narrow road 1 block to the north of the main lot entrance, labeled with a “Jerry Garcia Amphitheater” sign, then follow the road as it dog-legs up to the amphitheater.  This lot is patrolled and vehicles not displaying a proper placard will be cited.
  • Street parking along John F Shelley Dr.  From here enter on foot from either of the above mentioned parking lots.


TRANSIT
The nearest BART stations are Glen Park and Balboa Park, each around 2 miles away.  The closest bus is the 29 which connects with the Balboa Park station. The west bound stop is at the corner of Mansell St and University St. The east bound stop is at Mansell St and Visitacion Ave (see map).

food

Unlike in many theaters, at Free Shakes in the Park you’re welcome to bring in all the food and beverages you like!  We no longer offer concessions for sale onsite, so be sure to patronize a local business and stock your picnic on the way in.  Food options immediately surround the park are sparse, so we recommend traveling a bit further to Geneva Ave or Mission St.  Here are a few of our favorites from those areas:

  • Golden Moon Restaurant – 2511 Geneva Ave.
  • Domino’s Pizza – 2665 Geneva Ave.
  • KFC/Taco Bell – 2815 Geneva Ave.
  • Los Reyes Restaurant – 2101 Geneva Ave.
  • Bravo Pizza – 5145 Mission St.
  • Hawaiian Drive Inn – 4827 Mission St.
  • Taqueria El Farolito – 4817 Mission St.
  • An Chi Vietnamese Cuisine – 4683 Mission St.
  • Pampanguena Filipino Cuisine – 20807 Stevens Creek Blvd.
  • Phillies Cheesesteaks – 932 Geneva Ave.
  • Safeway – 4950 Mission St.

tips for attending

PHOTO / VIDEO
  • Due to actors’ union rules, photography and videography of the performance are not allowed.  Guests taking photos will be asked by staff to delete them.
  • SF Shakes’ in-house photographers are exempted from this restriction.

SEATING
  • All shows are free to the public.  No reservations or tickets are required and all seating is general and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Feel free to arrive early to claim your ideal seating location with chair or blanket placeholders.  The earliest guests begin arriving several hours before showtime but available seating remains throughout the course of the performance.
  • Jerry Garcia Amphitheater features both terraced bleacher seating and semi-grassy hillside seating.
  • The amphitheater is accessible to wheelchairs and a limited amount of accessible ground-level paved area is available near the front of the seating area.
  • Throughout the performance, including for late arrivals, please take care not to disrupt the show for other patrons by walking in front of the stage.  Enter/exit at the sides or rear of the seating area.
  • Aisles and walkways will be marked, and should be kept clear at all times for the safety of actors and audience.

CHAIRS
  • Lawn / folding chairs are welcome, but not needed in the bleacher seating area.

WHAT TO BRING
  • Prepare for the sun by bringing sunscreen, water, and a visor/hat/sunglasses or small umbrella.  There is limited shade in the amphitheater and it moves throughout the course of the show.
  • Blankets or ground covers are recommended on dirt and grassy areas.
  • A picnic!
  • Strollers are allowed, provided they are folded down during the performance and not blocking walkways or aisles.
  • Layered clothing options.  All shows have the potential to start out hot and end chilly.

WHAT NOT TO BRING
  • To ensure visibility for all guests, tents, large umbrellas or shade structures, and tall tables are not allowed within the main seating area.

FACILITIES
  • ADA accessible restrooms and a water fountain are located in the adjacent handicapped parking lot.  From seated in the amphitheater, head left along the pathway.
  • Trash, recycling, and compost receptacles are located to both sides of the stage.  Please clean up after yourself.
  • The Hospitality Table is located down the path to the left of the stage when seated in the amphitheater.  Visit the table for information or assistance or to make a donation.
  • Lost and found items are stored at the Hospitality Table.  After the performance, call the SF Shakes office at 415-558-0888

SAFETY
  • For any medical issues, security concerns, or other emergencies please visit the Hospitality Table or contact any SF Shakes staff member.

CANCELLATIONS
  • Performances are rarely cancelled, but in the event of extreme heat or rain, unhealthy air quality, or other natural or public health emergencies, a show may be modified or cancelled.  Cancellation decisions are often made shortly before showtime but every effort is made to notify the public as soon as possible.  Cancellation announcements will be posted in the park and on our website and social media.

San Francisco

Sue Bierman Park

SF Shakes is excited to partner with SF Recreation & Parks to bring Free Shakespeare in the Park to a new venue in 2024, at San Francisco’s Sue Bierman Park.  Situated at Washington and Drumm Street just north of Embarcadero Plaza, across from the Ferry Building, this location is surrounded by sweeping views of the Bay Bridge and downtown skyline, with ample food and transit options nearby.  Our 2024 season concludes with 2 weekends here.
Our production of The Tempest is the latest in a diverse array of weekend and evening events bringing new energy and excitement to the Embarcadero under Mayor Breed’s Roadmap to San Francisco’s Future. Recent activations include the Bricks at Embarcadero Plaza, and the Dirtybird: Back to Baysics concert on July 21 that drew more than 5,000 people to Embarcadero Plaza.

“You can’t beat the San Francisco Bay for a backdrop! I want to thank the San Francisco Shakespeare Festival and Recreation & Parks Department for providing the public with this magical summertime experience.  The Embarcadero is the gateway to our Downtown and our investments in events and activations are transforming this neighborhood into a culturally rich and vibrant, 24/7 destination. We have more work to do, but the momentum is building.”
–Mayor London N. Breed.

2024 schedule

Below is the schedule for the two weekends of Free Shakespeare in the Park 2024 performances of The Tempest in San Francisco’s Sue Bierman Park.  All shows begin at 2pm and run for approximately 100 minutes with no intermission.

Help spread the word and invite your friends and neighbors! Share this flyer and these event listings: Eventbrite, Facebook, Linkedin.

* Preview show (preview shows allow the cast and crew to to make adjustments before opening in each venue; all are welcome to attend these complete performances.)
+ Opening show

*Sat Sept 14 – 2pm
+Sun Sept 15 – 2pm

Sat Sept 21 – 2pm
Sun Sept 22 – 2pm

location & transportation

LOCATION
Sue Bierman Park is located at Washington and Drumm Street; just north of Embarcadero Plaza, across from the Ferry Building.


TRANSIT
The Embarcadero BART station is located 4 blocks away on Market St.

MUNI’s F-Line serves the Embarcadero & Ferry Building stop, one block south of the park.


PARKING
Parking is available in the area, options are listed below.  Please remember to never leave any valuables in your car.

  • Thanks to our partnership with Boston Properties, we are able to offer vouchers (stop by our hospitality table to get yours before departing) for discounted flat-rate $10 parking in any of the four Embarcadero Center parking decks (1EC, 2EC, 3EC, or 4EC). Vouchers and available parking spots are first-come first-served.
  • Paid parking in the outdoor Washington Lot, immediately to the north across Washington St.
  • Paid street parking throughout the neighborhood.  Pay at the pay station or via app.

food

Unlike in many theaters, at Free Shakes in the Park you’re welcome to bring in all the food and beverages you like!  We no longer offer concessions for sale onsite, so be sure to patronize a local business and stock your picnic on the way in.  Plenty of food options surround Sue Bierman Park in Embarcadero Center, The Ferry Building, and surrounding neighborhood.  In Embarcadero Center be sure to check out the culinary popups brought to you by the collaborative Vacant To Vibrant, including Rosalind Bakery, Whack Donuts, and Teranga.

For a complete listing of all vendors in Embarcadero Center see their directory at embarcaderocenter.com/shops

For a complete listing of all vendors in the Ferry Building, see their directory at ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/shops

  • Rosalind Bakery – 4 Embarcadero Center.  Open Sat and Sun 9am – 2pm.
  • Whack Doughnuts – 4 Embarcadero Center.  Open Sat 8am-2pm.
  • Harborview Restaurant & Bar – 4 Embarcadero Center.  Open Sat & Sun 10:30am – 2:30pm, 5pm – 9pm.
  • Osha Thai – 4 Embarcadero Center.  Open Sat & Sun 12pm – 4pm, 5pm – 8:30pm.
  • Sushi Kinta – 4 Embarcadero Center.  Open Sat 11am – 7pm.
  • A16 La Pala – Ferry Building.  Open Sat & Sun 10am – 7pm.
  • Acme Bread Company – Ferry Building.  Open Sat & Sun 8am – 6pm.
  • Cholita Linda – Ferry Building.  Open Sat & Sun 11am – 8pm.
  • Fort Point Beer Company – Ferry Building.  Open Sat & Sun 11am – 7pm.
  • Gott’s Roadside – Ferry Building.  Open Sat & Sun 10am – 9pm.
  • Señor Sisig – Ferry Building.  Open Sat & Sun 10am – 6pm.

tips for attending

PHOTO / VIDEO

  • Due to actors’ union rules, photography and videography of the performance are not allowed.  Guests taking photos will be asked by staff to delete them.
  • SF Shakes’ in-house photographers are exempted from this restriction.


SEATING

  • All shows are free to the public.  No reservations or tickets are required and all seating is general and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Feel free to arrive early to claim your ideal seating location with chair or blanket placeholders.  The earliest guests begin arriving several hours before showtime but available seating remains throughout the course of the performance.
  • Sue Bierman Park features level grassy seating areas.
  • The park is accessible to wheelchairs.
  • Throughout the performance, including for late arrivals, please take care not to disrupt the show for other patrons by walking in front of the stage.  Enter/exit at the sides or rear of the seating area.
  • Aisles and walkways will be marked, and should be kept clear at all times for the safety of actors and audience.


CHAIRS

  • Lawn / folding chairs are welcome.  To ensure visibility for all guests, those bringing taller chairs will be asked to sit behind the signage delineating tall/short chair areas.
  • A tall chair is defined as one whose seat measures more than 12 inches off the ground.


WHAT TO BRING

  • Prepare for the sun by bringing sunscreen, water, and a visor/hat/sunglasses or small umbrella.  The seating area is not shaded.
  • Blankets or ground covers are recommended on grassy areas.
  • A picnic!
  • Strollers are allowed, provided they are folded down during the performance and not blocking walkways or aisles.
  • Layered clothing options.  All shows have the potential to start out hot and end chilly.


WHAT NOT TO BRING

  • To ensure visibility for all guests, tents, large umbrellas or shade structures, and tall tables are not allowed within the main seating area.


FACILITIES

  • An ADA-accessible restroom is located in the southwest corner of the park, near the corner of Drumm and Clay Streets.
  • Trash, recycling, and compost receptacles are located to both sides of the stage.  Please clean up after yourself.
  • The Hospitality Table is located along the path to the side of the stage.  Visit the table for information or assistance or to make a donation.
  • Lost and found items are stored at the Hospitality Table.  After the performance, call the SF Shakes office at 415-558-0888


SAFETY

  • For any medical issues, security concerns, or other emergencies please visit the Hospitality Table or contact any SF Shakes staff member.


CANCELLATIONS

  • Performances are rarely cancelled, but in the event of extreme heat or rain, unhealthy air quality, or other natural or public health emergencies, a show may be modified or cancelled.  Cancellation decisions are often made shortly before showtime but every effort is made to notify the public as soon as possible.  Cancellation announcements will be posted in the park and on our website and social media.

events & attractions

Downtown San Francisco is alive and kicking in 2024!
In addition to Free Shakespeare in the Park, the surrounding area is host to a number of other exciting events:

 

THE BRICKS AT EMBARCADERO PLAZA
The Bricks ( embarcaderobricks.com ) is a project to renew downtown San Francisco, by creating a vibrant town square at Embarcadero Plaza, celebrating the Bay Area’s unique arts, food and culture. It will be open to the public daily from April to October 2024 with food and music, rotating art and weekly cultural events. Project funding comes from the City of San Francisco and private donors.

Summer/Fall Schedule, Aug 7 – Oct 26:

  • Wed: 11-2p Business Mixer
  • Thurs: 3-7p Trivia Party
  • Fri: 3-7p Dance Party
  • Sat: 11-2 Family Day

 


DOWNTOWN FIRST THURSDAYS
Downtown First Thursdays ( dftsf.com ) is a free, all-ages monthly street party hosted in Downtown San Francisco taking place on every first Thursday of the month from 5pm to 10pm. Get ready for disco in the streets, DJs, live music, drag, fashion, street performances, and many other surprises still to be announced!
The fun takes place on 2nd Street (between Market and Howard) and along neighboring alleyways ready for you to explore. The event will also feature two 21+ outdoor bars on Minna and Natoma.

Fall Schedule:

  • Thurs Sept 5, 5 – 10pm.
  • Thurs Oct 3, 5 – 10pm.
  • Thurs Nov 7, 5 – 10pm.

 


BHANGRA & BEATS NIGHT MARKET
Move to the beats of the Bay, taste delicious street food cuisines, sip cocktails, shop from unique local artisans, and celebrate San Francisco’s cultural renaissance – all while gazing at the moon rising above the stunning Downtown San Francisco skyline at Bhangra & Beats Night Market ( bhangraandbeats.com ).
Located at Battery St. and Clay St. and taking place over four Fridays in 2024 from 5pm-10pm, this FREE event will transform three City blocks into a vibrant marketplace for the delight of locals and visitors alike.
Mixing South Asian Bhangra music and other popular Bay Area music genres, Bhangra and Beats Night Market’s eclectic sound featuring local and international talent will get everyone moving in the streets.
Presented by Into The Streets and Non Stop Bhangra, Bhangra and Beats Night Market is presented in partnership with the San Francisco Office of Economic & Workforce Development and the Mayor’s Office of London N. Breed.

Fall Schedule:

  • Sept 13, 5 – 10pm.
  • Nov 15, 5 – 10pm.

 


PARK PADEL
Check out Park Padel ( parkpadel.com ) and their two new courts in Embarcadero Plaza just south of the Sue Bierman Park.  Padel is the best of all racket sports- it’s easy to pick up like pickleball, dynamic like squash, and athletic like tennis.   Hit the ball off the glass, lob it high into the sky, or smash it over the wall.  It is almost always played in doubles on an enclosed court that is about a third of the size of a tennis court.  Padel is known for its social and inclusive nature, as it is relatively easy to learn and doesn’t require the same level of physical fitness as some other racket sports.
Book a court at book.parkpadel.com/ , (415) 418-2569‬, or email hello@parkpadel.com

  • Mon-Fri 8am – 9pm.
  • Sat-Sun 8am – 8pm.

 


OKTOBERFEST ON FRONT
Break out your lederhosen and dirndl for this free block party! Celebrate Oktoberfest with the oldest Bavarian Beer Hall in SF at Oktoberfest on Front ( https://downtownsf.org/things-to-do/oktoberfest-on-front ). Mouthwatering bratwurst, ice-cold beer, live music, and traditional Oktoberfest games await at 240 Front Street in downtown San Francisco.
Join Schroeder’s, Harrington’s Bar & Grill, and Royal Exchange for Oktoberfest on Front! Schroeder’s will be a full Hofbrau, serving liter beers. There will be plenty of food and drinks, beer hall games, live music & DJs, axe throwing, and “pretzel” toss! Beer hall games, which include Stein Holding and Beer Chugging (NA beer), will be held indoors and outdoors.
AlpineSound will be playing traditional German Polka. Ladyhosen will be playing first from 3-7 PM. Pop Rocks will close the evening from 7-10 PM.
Reservations are not required, so make your plans today, and don’t miss out on this annual block party!

  • Friday, Sept 20, 2-10pm.

 


LET’S GLOW SF
Let’s Glow SF ( downtownsf.org/things-to-do/lets-glow-sf ), the country’s largest holiday projection event, will return to downtown San Francisco for the 2024 holiday season. From December 6th through 15th, this FREE outdoor holiday event will use high-tech projectors and lasers to showcase large-scale pieces of animated art across the facade of four iconic SF buildings from 5:30-10 PM nightly, including at the nearby Ferry Building.

  • December 6 to 15, 5:30 – 10pm.

 


FERRY BUILDING MARKETPLACE
Located just across the street from Sue Bierman Park, the historic Ferry Building is home to not only a variety of shops and restaurants, but also events, exhibitions, and social events.  See the complete listing and schedule at ferrybuildingmarketplace.com

 


EMBARCADERO CENTER
Spanning four blocks adjacent to Sue Bierman Park, Embarcadero Center ( embarcaderocenter.com ) is one of the largest mixed-use complexes in the Western United States. Featuring a unique history and award-winning architectural design, Embarcadero Center offers four buildings with luxury office space, hundreds of shops, restaurants, services, and a state-of-the-art multiplex cinema.  Be sure to check out the many food offerings across all four properties, especially the culinary popups brought to you by the collaborative Vacant To Vibrant, including Rosalind Bakery, Whack Donuts, and Teranga.

Orinda

The Bruns Amphitheater

CalShakes & SFShakes are pleased to jointly announce that the Bruns Memorial Amphitheater will host Free Shakespeare in the Park this summer, with two weekends of Cymbeline performances. “Free Shakespeare in the Park will be a wonderful addition to our “At The Bruns” arts series this summer” says CalShakes Executive Director Clive Worsley. “This is a great opportunity for audiences to continue to enjoy Shakespeare onstage at the Bruns, in anticipation of our own Shakespeare production in 2024 for our 50th Anniversary. We are deeply appreciative of the several donors who have chosen to support this collaboration.” “I’m delighted that our two companies could partner to bring Free Shakespeare in the Park to the Bruns this summer, says SF Shakes Executive Director Toby Leavitt.

2023 schedule

Below is the schedule for the two weekends of Free Shakespeare in the Park 2023 performances of Cymbeline in Orinda.  All shows begin at 4:00pm (the theater opens at 2:30pm). The show runs for 90 minutes with no intermission.

Join us for a lively and informative Grove Talk at 3:00pm!
– The Sept 16 and Sept 17 Grove Talks will be presented by Philippa Kelly, Cal Shakes Resident Dramaturg.
– The Sept 23 Grove Talk will be presented by Karina Gutiérrez, Latinx Director and Scholar,
– The Sept 24 Grove Talk will be presented by Carla Pantoja, SF Shakes Artistic Director.

* Preview show (preview shows allow the cast and crew to to make adjustments before opening in each venue; all are welcome to attend these complete performances.)
+ Opening show

*Sat Sept 16 – 4pm (3pm Grove Talk)
+Sun Sept 17 – 4pm (3pm Grove Talk)

sat sept 23 – 4pm (3pm Grove Talk)
Sun Sept 24 – 4pm (3pm Grove Talk)

location & transportation

LOCATION
The Bruns Amphitheatre is located at 100 California Shakespeare Theater Way, Orinda CA 94563, which is about 7 miles from Berkeley and Oakland, just off Highway 24.

PARKING
Limited parking is available; carpooling is encouraged. A shuttle service for those with access needs is available to take you up the hill.


TRANSIT
You can BART to the Orinda station and then take the Cal Shakes shuttle. The free shuttle (with a wheelchair ramp) runs from the Orinda BART station to the Bruns, beginning two hours before every performance and again immediately after the show. The shuttle runs a loop every 20 minutes.
Uber or Lyft are alternates to taking the shuttle to the amphitheater,

food

The Café at the Sharon Simpson Center is available onsite, offering sandwiches, salads, desserts, hot and cold beverages, wine, and beer.

Outside alcohol is NOT permitted.

Outside food is welcomed with the purchase of a picnicking fee. The Bruns Memorial Amphitheater grounds and theater is a ‘nut-free zone.’

  • Golden Moon Restaurant – 2511 Geneva Ave.
  • Domino’s Pizza – 2665 Geneva Ave.
  • KFC/Taco Bell – 2815 Geneva Ave.
  • Los Reyes Restaurant – 2101 Geneva Ave.
  • Bravo Pizza – 5145 Mission St.
  • Hawaiian Drive Inn – 4827 Mission St.
  • Taqueria El Farolito – 4817 Mission St.
  • An Chi Vietnamese Cuisine – 4683 Mission St.
  • Pampanguena Filipino Cuisine – 20807 Stevens Creek Blvd.
  • Phillies Cheesesteaks – 932 Geneva Ave.
  • Safeway – 4950 Mission St.

tips for attending

PHOTO / VIDEO

  • Due to actors’ union rules, photography and videography of the performance are not allowed.  Guests taking photos will be asked by staff to delete them.
  • SF Shakes’ in-house photographers are exempted from this restriction.


SEATING

  • All shows are free to the public.  No reservations or tickets are required and all seating is general and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Feel free to arrive early to claim your ideal seating location with blanket or jacket placeholders.  The theater opens at 2:30pm and show time is at 4pm. Each show also includes a lively and informative Grove Talk at 3pm.
  • Bruns Amphitheater features terraced seating and chairs are provided; no need to bring your own!
  • The amphitheater is accessible to wheelchairs and special needs.
  • Throughout the performance, including for late arrivals, please take care not to disrupt the show for other patrons. Enter/exit at the sides or rear of the seating area.
  • Aisles and walkways should be kept clear at all times for the safety of actors and audience.


CHAIRS

  • Full size chairs are provided; no need to bring your own! Wheelchairs can be accommodated.


WHAT TO BRING

  • Prepare for the sun by bringing sunscreen, water, and a visor/hat/sunglasses.  There is limited shade in the amphitheater and it moves throughout the course of the show.
  • Layers and/or blankets are recommended as the temperature may swing dramatically. All shows have the potential to start out warm and end chilly.
  • We recommend wearing comfortable shoes – the ground can be uneven.

WHAT NOT TO BRING

  • Your own seating (full size chairs are provided!)
  • Food & beverages – instead purchase at The Café at the Sharon Simpson located on the plaza.
  • Umbrellas
  • Pets


FACILITIES

  • ADA accessible restrooms and a water fountain are located in the plaza just outside the entrance to the amphitheater.
  • Trash, recycling, and compost receptacles are conveniently located. Please clean up after yourself.
  • Visit the Hospitality  table for information or assistance or to make a donation.
  • Lost and found items are stored at the Hospitality Table.  After the performance, call the SF Shakes office at 415-558-0888

SAFETY

  • When walking from or to the parking area be sure to use the path. The road will be open to vehicle traffic.
  • For any medical issues, security concerns, or other emergencies please visit the Hospitality Table or contact any staff member.

CANCELLATIONS

  • Performances are rarely cancelled, but in the event of extreme heat or rain, unhealthy air quality, or other natural or public health emergencies, a show may be modified or cancelled.  Cancellation decisions are often made shortly before showtime but every effort is made to notify the public as soon as possible.  Cancellation announcements will be posted in the parking lot and on our website and social media.

SAN FRANCISCO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

PO Box 46093
San Francisco, CA 94146-0937

415-558-0888

sfshakes@sfshakes.org

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Website by Neal Ormond