Going Out, Sept. 4-13, 2025 arts & nightlife events

As we head into autumn, plenty of theater companies, art galleries, and bookstores rev up their events. Keep track of it all, plus hot nightlife fun, this week and every week in Going Out. And check out this week's four Fall Arts Preview roundups as well.

(Click here for listings of LGBTQ movies, TV series, podcasts and community organizations .)

DANCE, OPERA, THEATER
9 to 5 the Musical @ Victoria Theatre
Ray of Light Theatre company performs Dolly Parton and Patricia Resnick's musical adaptation of the hit 1980 film about three women who get revenge on their boss. $25-$75, Sept. 5-27, 2961 16th St. www.rayoflighttheatre.com

The Addams Family @ Berkeley Playhouse
The fun macabre musical comedy (Book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, with Music and Lyrics by Andrew Lippa) based on the Charles Addams cartoons is performed. $19-$55, Sept. 5-21, 2640 College Ave. https://tickets.berkeleyplayhouse.org/

Brava Theatre Center
Plays, dance, comedy and music concerts mostly by BIPOC women. Dan Savage's HumpFest, a showcase of short adult films, $18, Sept. 4, 6:30pm ( tickets ). 2781 24th St. Also other shows at Brava Cabaret, 2773 24th St. www.brava.org

Cabaret @ Los Altos Stage
Los Altos Stage Company performs the classic Kander & Ebb/Masteroff musical based on Christopher Isherwood's 'Berlin Diaries' about a performer in Weimar Germany. $28-$51, Sept. 4-28, 97 Hillview Ave. www.losaltosstage.org

A Chorus Line @ GK Hardt Stage, Santa Rosa
6th Street Playhouse performs Michael Bennett and collaborators (book by James Kirkwood & Nicholas Dante, music by Marvin Hamlisch, lyrics by Edward Kleban) classic musical about dancers auditioning and revealing their lives through song and dance. $32-$56, thru Sept. 28, 52 West 6th St. www.6thstreetplayhouse.com

The Compton's Cafeteria Riot
Collette LeGrande, Donna Personna and Mark Nassar's immersive play about the 1966 historic pre-Stonewall uprising of drag and trans patrons at the Tenderloin diner, with breakfast served. $75, Fri & Sat. extended thru Oct. 25. 835 Larkin St. www.comptonscafeteriariot.com (Read our feature article .)

CounterPulse
Arts center for experimental innovative performance, dance and art, often with a queer focus; Annual Festival features several performers; 'Text2Speech,' a performance and exhibition series, opens Sept. 4, 5pm-7pm. "Trashflower" by Rose and Zoe Huey and "On the Floor" by Maria Silk, Sept. 4 & 5, 12 & 13. Alley Wilde’s ‘The Axe: a long line of broken white people,’ Sept. 11 & 13, thru Sept. Free/$35, 80 Turk St. www.counterpulse.org

Dance Mission Theater
Space for dance lessons, concerts with a modern often sociopolitical edge. 3316 24th St. www.dancemissiontheater.org

The Day the Sky Turned Orange @ Z Space
SFBATCO and Z Space present playwright Julius Ernesto Rea and composers Olivia Kuper Harris and David Michael Ott's hip hop dance musical about people coming together amid the ominous time in Sept. 2020 when wildfires caused dark days and nights amid the COVID pandemic. $25, in-person and streaming, Sept. 5-Oct. 5, 450 Florida St. www.zspace.org

Dear San Francisco @ Club Fugazi
The 'high-flying love story' weaves local history with acrobatic theatrics and live music by The 7 Fingers company, now with new cast members; extended run after its 1000th show. $35-$99. 678 Green St. www.clubfugazisf.com

Eureka Day @ Marin Theatre, Mill Valley
Jonathan Spector's Tony-winning school board drama, originally produced in the Bay Area, is performed with many of the original world premiere cast members. $15-$79, Aug. 28-Sept. 21, 397 Miller Ave. www.marintheatre.org   (Read our advance article.)

Gypsy @ Lucie Stern Theater, Palo Alto
Palo Alto Players perform Laurents, Styne and Sondheim’s classic ‘show mother’ musical based on the life of stripper Gypsy Rose Lee. $30-$63, Sept. 5-21, 1305 Middlefield Road. https://paplayers.org/

Hamlet @ Marin Shakespeare Company, San Rafael
Oakland Theater Project performs Shakespeare's royal family tragedy. $10-$60, Sept. 5-21, 514 4th St. www.oaklandtheaterproject.org

Indecent @ Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek
Center Rep, with the Yiddish Theatre Ensemble, performs Paula Vogel’s Tony Award-winning play about the controversial 1923 Broadways production of ‘God of Vengeance.’ $ Sept. 7-28, 1601 Civic Drive. www.centerrep.org

Limp Wrist on the Lever @ Potrero Stage
Crowded Fire’s production of Preston Choi’s play about queer teens in a conversion camp who battle their sadistic counselor. $25-$100, Sept. 11-Oct. 4, 1696 18th St. www.crowdedfire.org/limp-wrist/

Liz Roman & Dancers
‘Sunset Dancers IV,’ a new work performed in the choreographer’s Ocean Beach home. $40, Thu-Sat Sept. 5-21. www.lizzroman.com/sunset-dances-iv

The Marsh
New and return engagements with acclaimed local storytellers and performers at SF and Berkeley stages. Candace Johnson's 'Scat-ter Brain: The Music of ADHD,' a musical autobiographical solo show, thru Sept. 13. 1062 Valencia St. SF. Other shows include Terry Baum's ‘Lesbo Solo: My Gay History Play,’ a personal and celebratory chronicle of gay liberation at The Marsh Berkeley Cabaret (5pm, Sundays, Sept. 7-Oct. 12), Brian Copeland's 'The Waiting Period' (free) Sept. 20, and Josh Kornbluth's ‘What Is To Be Done?,’ a work-in-progress improvisational piece on fascism and depression, (5pm, Fridays, thru Oct 22) at 2120 Allston Way, Berkeley. Each $20-$100. www.themarsh.org

The Mechanix @ Z Below
Sara Toby Moore performs her wacky comic space-time scifi cartoon show with Matthew Martin, DeMarcello Funes and Maureen McVerry. $25-$45, thru Sept. 6, 470 Florida St. www.zspace.org (Read our feature article.)

My Fair Lady @ SF Playhouse
The company performs Lerner & Loewe's classic musical based on George Bernard Shaw's 'Pygmalion' about a British cockney woman transformed by a linguistics expert. $52-$135, thru Sept. 13, 450 Post St. www.sfplayhouse.org

The Motion @ Ashby Stage, Berkeley
Shotgun Players perform the world premiere of Obie Award-inning Bay area playwright Christopher Chen’s sci-fi drama about a group of people debating the ethics of animal testing, while becoming trapped themselves. $8-$80, Sept. 13- Oct. 12, 1901 Ashby Ave. https://shotgunplayers.org/show/the-motion/

Nori Reed @ Club Fugazi
Former Bay Area now-LA-based acclaimed trans Asian comic performs. $33, Sept. 6, 8pm. 678 Green St.   www.clubfugazisf.com

Plaza Suite @ Hillbarn Theatre, Foster City
The company performs Neil Simon's '70s comedy about straight couples in a hotel. $32-$62, thru Sept. 14, 1285 E. Hillsdale Blvd. www.hillbarntheatre.org

The Reservoir @ Berkeley Repertory
Jake Brasch's acclaimed comic play about a young gay alcoholic man in recovery who rekindles a bond with his aging grandparents. Sept. 5–Oct. 12. $25-$135. Berkeley Repertory's Peet's Theatre, 2025 Addison St. www.berkeleyrep.org (Read our interview with playwright Jake Brasch.)

San Francisco Opera @ War Memorial Opera House
The company and guest artists perform new and classic operas, with online livestreams. The new season begins with Giuseppe Verdi's Rigoletto,' $29-$447, Sept. 5-27; Opera Ball, cocktail reception, formal dinner and after-party, $350 and up, Sept. 5, 5pm; Opera in the Park, free, Sept. 7, 1:30pm, Robin Williams Meadow, Golden Gate Park. In advance of the next opera, ‘Dead Man Walking,’ SFO hosts two talks on capital punishment with composer Jake Heggie and Sister Helen Prejean, Sept. 10 & 12.  301 Van Ness Ave. www.sfopera.com

Shucked @ Curran Theatre
The touring company of Robert Horn and Brandy Clark/Shane McAnally’s Tony-winning hit Broadway musical comedy about small town corn farmers facing a mysterious crop failure. $62-$169, Sept. 9-Oct. 5, 445 Geary St. https://www.broadwaysf.com/events/shucked/

Smuin Contemporary Ballet
Smuin launches its 32nd season with a triple bill that includes Alejandro Cerrudo’s “Extremely Close,” which layers movement with stark visual design and music by Philip Glass and Dustin O’Halloran. Three-time Tony Award-winning choreographer Justin Peck’s “Partita,” set to Caroline Shaw’s Pulitzer Prize-winning score, arrives on the West Coast after its 2022 debut with New York City Ballet. Rounding out the program is Artistic Director Amy Seiwert’s “A Long Night,” a work that reimagines Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” through a contemporary and humorous lens. Sept. 12–Oct. 5, $34–$119, Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts; Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek; Blue Shield of California Theater at YBCA, San Francisco. http://www.smuinballet.org

The Soiled Dove @ Alameda
New version of the immersive multi-disciplinary performance extravaganza, built around a new narrative about Barbary Coast-era San Francisco. Bay Area icon Joan Baez plays the role of a Gypsy Queen (and performs some of her own signature songs) amidst a rowdy mix of dinner theater, rock concert, stand-up comedy, and acrobatics. Sept 5-Nov. 1. $85-$220. 2151 Ferry Point. www.thesoileddove.com (Read our advance article .)

The Two Gentlemen of Verona
SF Shakespeare Festival company performs a 90-minute edited version of The Bard's comedy at various outdoor ampitheaters; Cupertino's Memorial Park Amphitheater, Red Morton Park, Redwood City, San Francisco's McLaren Park and Sue Bierman Park; Saturdays & Sundays thru Sept. 21. www./sfshakes.org

Yerba Buena Gardens Festival
25th anniversary season of free outdoor performances by local and visiting music, dance, circus, literary and theater artists; continues on various days thru Nov. 1, 4th St. at Mission. www.ybgfestival.org

LITERARY, LECTURES, SPECIAL EVENTS
Book Passage
Indie bookshops hosts local best-selling author events. Gay author Alejandro Varela (‘Middle Spoon’) with R.O. Kwon, Sept. 11, 6:30pm. 1 Ferry Bldg., SF. Other stories in Corte Madera, 51 Tamal Vista Blvd. www.bookpassage.com

Book Society, Berkeley
East Bay book and wine shop. 2945 College Ave. www.booksociety.social

Books & Letters, Guerneville
The Russian River shop hosts readings by local and visiting authors, including LGBTQ writers and poets. 14045 Armstrong Woods Road. www.booksletters.com

Books Inc.
Author events at several locations; Opera Plaza store, 601 Van Ness Ave. Also shops on 2251 Chestnut St., Laurel Village, Campbell, San Leandro and Palo Alto. www.booksinc.net

The Booksmith
The popular indie bookstore hosts author events and joins forces with Fabulosa Books to send banned LGBTQ books to people and libraries. Donate online or in person. 1727 Haight St. www.booksmith.com

City Lights Bookstore
Historic North Beach bookstore hosts frequent literary events. 261 Columbus Ave. www.citylights.com

Commonwealth Club
Local and world affairs discussion panels with authors, scholars and politicians. 110 The Embarcadero. www.commonwealthclub.org

Fabulosa Books
Radicchio Salad Zine launch party, Sept. 4, 7pm. L Scully (‘Self-Romancing’) in a talk with Michelle Tea, Sept. 5, 7pm.  In-store and online monthly (4th Saturdays) book club group discussion of literary works, 8:30pm-10pm. Donate (online or in-person) to the Books Not Bans campaign. 489 Castro St. www.fabulosabooks.com

Ghost Tours
Guided tours and pub crawls of SF locations known for their alleged spooky history. $19-$75. www.sfghosts.com

Green Apple Books
Popular bookstore has an extensive collection and frequent author events. 1231 9th Ave. www.greenapplebooks.com

John Jason Philips @ The Grubstake
The designer and author of a gay San Francisco historical trilogy reads at an unusual locale; the popular late-night diner, Sept. 11, 7pm, 1525 Pine St.  https://www.johnjasonphillips.com/ https://www.grubstakesf.com/

Kayo Books
Fun bookstore sells vintage collectibles and pulp paperbacks, including many LGBTQ titles, at its new location. 907 Post St. www.kayobooks.com

Kepler's Books, Menlo Park
South Bay bookstore hosts author events. 1010 El Camino Real #100. www.keplers.org

Literary Speakeasy @ Martuni's
James J. Siegel hosts the monthly authors and poets night, last Thursdays, 7pm. 4 Valencia St.

Manny's
The cafe and event space hosts engaging talks with prominent authors, activists and politicians, viewing parties and more. 3092 16th St. www.welcometomannys.com

Marin County Tours
Enjoy nature hikes, bike rides, aquatic adventures in parks, trails and farms in Marin County. www.visitmarin.org

Medicine for Nightmares
Bookstore and gallery hosts a variety of events; poetry, music, workshops and author talks. 3036 24th St. www.medicinefornightmares.com

Mrs. Dalloway's Bookstore, Berkeley
Author events and signings. 2904 College Ave. www.mrsdalloways.com

Oakland LGBTQ Community Center
Frequent workshops, discussion panels, clinic testing, vaccines, film screenings and more. 490 Lakepark Ave. www.oaklandlgbtqcenter.org

Queer Words
Listen to online literary chats hosted by author Wayne Goodman, with guests Kelliane Parker, Brian Broome, Michael Nava and many others. www.queerwords.org

SF Hiking Club
Weekend hikes with LGBTQ nature lovers. www.sfhiking.com

SF Jewish Community Center
The center hosts lectures, art exhibits, classes and more. Cookbook author Dan Pelosi is joined by Juania MORE! In a lively demo/talk about food. $47 includes a book, Sept. 10, 7pm. 3200 California St. www.jccsf.org

SF LGBT Center
Events, exhibits, talks, film screenings and workshops. 'Queer & Proud; a Celebration of Lesbian Visibility,' exhibit. Queer & Well, the Center's wellness program, includes informative workshops, yoga classes, health clinics, housing, self-defense classes, and financial workshops. 1800 Market St. 1634 Jerrold Ave. www.sfcenter.org

SF Public Library
National AIDS Memorial Quilt repeair and panel-making workshop, Sept. 6, 12pm, 4th floor. Check out books and DVDs, see various book-themed exhibits. 100 Larkin St. www.sfpl.org

Strut SF
Literary readings, art exhibits and community talks at the LGBTQ health center. Open Mic 3rd Tuesdays. 470 Castro St. www.sfaf.org

Surreal San Francisco Walking Tour
Clyde Always' creative outdoor cutely knowledgeable two-hour tour of Mission, Castro and Duboce Triangle areas. $32. Mon-Thu & Sat. 10am & 2pm. www.clydealways.com (Read our feature article .)

MUSIC
The 222, Healdsburg
Jazz, classical & contemporary music concerts, authors & artist talks and more. Alan Broadbent & Harvie S Duo, $35-$85, Sept. 6, 7pm. 222 Healdsburg Ave. www.the222.org

924 Gilman, Oakland
Rock and punk music venue. Ninety-Pound Wuss, Middle-Aged Queers and more bands, Sept. 20, 7pm. 924 Gilman St. www.924gilman.org

Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center
International music and dance nights at the East Bay include folk, Samba, jazz and more; frequent Grateful Dead tribute nights. 1317 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. www.ashkenaz.com

Bimbo's 365 Club
Varied music acts in rock, jazz and pop perform. 1025 Columbus Ave. www.bimbos365club.com

Bottom of the Hill
The queer-friendly nightclub hosts concerts by local and touring rock, punk and other-genre indie bands. 1233 17th St. www.bottomofthehill.com

Brick & Mortar
The Mission/SoMa nightclub hosts music acts in a variety of genres. 1710 Mission St. www.brickandmortarmusic.com

Cafe du Nord
Intimate downstairs nightclub hosts musicians in a variety of genres. Choir Boy, with Pink Stilletto, Sept. 14, 8pm. Singer Stacie Ryan, Sept. 20, 8pm. 12174 Market St. www.cafedunord.com

Cal Performances @ UC Berkeley
Concerts of classical, modern and world music at Zellerbach Hall. Countertenor Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen, Sept. 27, 8pm. Pianist Daviil Trifonov, Sept. 28, 3pm. Mezzo-soprano Anne Sofie von Otter, Oct. 5, 3pm. Kronos Quartet Oct. 11, 8pm. Other shows at Zellerbach Playhouse & Hertz Hall, UC Berkeley campus. www.calperformances.org

The Chapel
Spacious venue hosts rock music acts. 777 Valencia St. www.thechapelsf.com

Cornerstone, Berkeley
Brewery hosts diverse music acts. Marc E. Bassy Sept. 14, 8pm. Mystery Skulls Sept. 25, 8pm. 2367 Shattuck Ave. www.cornerstoneberkeley.com

Feinstein's at the Nikko
The upscale nightclub presents cabaret concerts. Frankie Moreno, Sept. 12. 8pm. Katya Smirnoff-Skyy’s ‘Back in the USSR,’ a Beatles tribute night with the wacky Russian exiled opera queen, Sept. 27, 8pm. Broadway star Norm Lewis, Oct. 2 & 3, 8pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. www.feinsteinssf.com

The Fillmore
Historic venue hosts concerts by new and classic rock, folk and pop musicians. Terrapin Roadshow Sept. 12 & 13. Samia Sept. 20. Robin Trower Sept. 27. Spring Cheese Incident Oct. 4. Jason Mraz Oct. 26.  1805 Geary Blvd. www.livenation.com

Flower Piano @ San Francisco Botanical Garden
Beautiful spacious gardens host dozens of simultaneous programmed and spontaneous performances on pianos, grand and upright, with many musicians. Special evening concerts, fundraisers. Free to $6.75-$21.75 Sept. 12-24. 1199 9th Ave., Golden Gate Park. https://gggp.org/flowerpiano/  

Fox Theatre, Oakland
Elegant large theater hosts a variety of music and comedy acts. Thievery Corporation, $73-$210, Sept. 6, 8pm. he Psychedelic Furs with Gary Numan, Sept. 18, 8pm. Alex G, Sept. 23 & 24. TV on the Radio Oct. 12, 7:30pm. 1807 Telegraph Ave. www.thefoxoakland.com/

Freight & Salvage, Berkeley
Music venue presents folk, rock, blues musicians and more. Bobby McFerrin & Motion's Circlesongs, Mondays 11:30am. 2020 Addison St, Berkeley. Livestreams available for some shows. www.thefreight.org

Golden Gate Men’s Chorus @ St. Matthews Lutheran Church
‘All You Need is Love,’ the chorus’ concert of songs by The Beatles, Freddy Mercury, Billy Joel, Ed Sheeran, and Cyndi Lauper, along with hits from the Great American Songbook and the Broadway stage. $30-$50, Sept. 6 & 7, 3pm, 3281 16th St.  www.ggmc.org

Golden Gate Park Band @ Bandshell
The local stage band performs their weekly summer series of concerts, Sundays 1pm, thru Sept. 28. Music Concourse Drive. www.goldengateparkband.org

Great American Music Hall
Enjoy live music at the classic venue. Misfit Cabaret’s “Till Death Do Us Part," a music, acrobatic burlesque show, Sept. 12, 8pm. Oracle Sisters Sept. 16, 8pm. Lizzy & the Triggermen, Sept. 26, 8pm. Nick Lowe & Patty Griffin, Oct. 3, 8pm. 859 O'Farrell St. www.gamh.com

The Independent
Nightclub hosts upcoming and popular rock bands. ‘Luigi the Musical’ returns; $39-$55, Sept. 9, 7:30pm. Gay pop singer David Archuleta Sept. 27, 9pm. $38-$260 meet & greet; Read our August interview ). 628 Divisadero St. www.theindependentsf.com

The Ivy Room, Albany
East Bay nightclub hosts diverse music acts. September includes Hugo de la Lune (11th), a punk combo Havoc Fest presents Infirmities, Plan 9, & Violent Coercion, Sept. 13. Hank Williams Birthday Bash Sept. 14, and Greg Norton of Husker Du, Sept. 15. 860 San Pablo Ave. www.ivyroom.com

Kilowatt
The Mission bar hosts frequent indie music acts. 3160 16th St. www.kilowattbar.com

The Lab
Contemporary and experimental art, music concerts, and installations. 2948 16th St. www.thelab.org

The Lost Church
Intimate music and theater venue presents local and touring performers in a variety of genres. 988 Columbus Ave. www.thelostchurch.org

Marin Jazz, San Rafael
Monthly concerts from the new jazz series. Mariah Parker’s Indo Latin Jazz Extravaganza featuring Grammy-winning drummer Mark Walker, Sept. 27, 7:30pm. Marin Center Showcase Theater, 20 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. www.marinjazz.com (Read our interview with Marin Jazz CEO Todd Ghanizadeh.)

The Masonic
Large theater hosts notable music and comedy acts. Emmylou Harris tribute Oct. 2.  Neko Case Nov. 11. Patti Smith and her band perform “Horses,” Nov. 13. 1111 California St. www.livenation.com

Mission Dolores Basilica
The historic church hosts concerts and recitals each second Sunday. 3321 16th St. www.missiondolores.org

Noe Music
In-person and online concerts in many genres; classical, folk, early music. 1021 Sanchez St. www.noemusic.org

Noontime Concerts @ Old Saint Mary's Cathedral
Enjoy concerts in a variety of genres, Tuesdays at 12:30pm. 660 California St. www.noontimeconcerts.org (Read our interview with pianist and artistic advisor Dr. Carl Blake .)

Old First Concerts
Enjoy in-person, live-streamed and archived music concerts of classic and contemporary music. 1751 Sacramento St. www.oldfirstconcerts.org

Paramount Theater, Oakland
Art Deco concert hall hosts music and comedy acts in a variety of genres. Comic Taylor Tomlinson, Sept. 12 & 13, 7pm. Faye Webster and the Magik Magik Orchestra Nov. 5 & 6, 8pm. X and Los Lobos, Nov. 8.  John Legend Dec. 9.  2025 Broadway. www.paramountoakland.org

Regency Ballroom
Large venue hosts concerts and special events. The Dandy Warhols Oct. 8. Stereolab Oct. 201300 Van Ness Ave. www.theregencyballroom.com

Rickshaw Stop
Intimate venue hosts new, upcoming pop and rock music acts and dance nights. 155 Fell St. www.rickshawstop.com

San Francisco Conservatory of Music
Frequent concerts of classical and contemporary music by students, faculty and visiting artists, most free. 50 Oak St. www.sfcm.edu

San Francisco Performances @ Herbst Theatre
Chamber music, classical, vocal concerts and recitals. Attacca Quartet Oct. 11, 7:30pm. Pianist Conrad Tao, Oct. 17, 7:30pm. 401 Van Ness Ave. www.sfperformances.org

San Francisco Symphony @ Davies Symphony Hall
Classical and contemporary music concerts. Marvel Studios’ “Infinity Saga” concert experience Sept. 4-6. Fall season Sept. 12 opening night features pianist Yuja Wang, Jaap van Zweden conducting works by John Adams, Tchaikovsky and Respighi. James Gaffigan conducts four nights of Gershwin music, Sept. 18-20. 201 Van Ness Ave. www.sfsymphony.org

SF Jazz
The acclaimed venue presents their concert series. Cory Henry & The Funk Apostles, Sept. 4 & 5. Anthony Wilson Nonet, Sept. 4 & 5. Blind Boys of Alabama with Cory Henry, Sept 6 & 7. Stella Heath sextet Sept. 6 & 7. Kamasi Washington Nov. 5, 8pm. Drummer Cindy Blackman with Santana, Sept. 1 & 14. Dominique Fils-Aimé, Sept. 18 & 19. 201 Franklin St. www.sfjazz.org

SF Live Arts @ Cyprian's
Concerts by acclaimed musicians in a variety of genres. Violinist Mads Tolling the John R Burr Duo perform jazz/classical and improv music, Sept. 19, 8pm. 2097 Turk St. www.sflivearts.org

Sweetwater Music Hall, Mill Valley
Intimate restaurant, nightclub and music venue presents all kinds of music, in the historic Masonic Lodge. 9 Corte Madera Ave. www.sweetwatermusichall.com

Thee Stork Club, Oakland
East Bay nightclub hosts a variety of music acts. The Knight Shades, The Boars Sept12, 8:30pm. Matter, Prog Frog and Mia Pixley, Sept. 20, 8pm. 2330 Telegraph Ave. www.theestorkclub.com

The Warfield
Concert venue hosts rock bands, comics and more. UB40 with The English Beat, Sept. 26, 8pm. TV on the Radio Oct. 11, 8pm. Buckethead Oct. 17, 8:30pm. Garbage, Oct. 24, 8pm. 982 Market St. www.thewarfieldtheatre.com

Yoshi's
The elegant nightclub-restaurant features jazz and R&B musicians. 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland. www.yoshis.com

NIGHTLIFE

440 Castro
Friendly neighborhood bar has ample outdoor seating, indoor Monday underwear parties, and two bars. Battle of the Bulges with $150 cash prize, hosted by Baruch Porras-Hernandez, 2nd Tuesdays. 440 Castro St. www.the440.com

Abrazo Queer Tango @ Finnish Hall, Berkeley
Beginning and intermediate tango lessons and parties. 1970 Chestnut St. www.abrazoqueertango.wordpress.com

The Academy
LGBTQ social club offers membership, plus public events, art exhibits, music, community talks, wine-tastings and more. Vocalist Jason Brock and pianist Dee Spencer, first Weds. 7pm-9pm. 2166 Market St. www.academy-sf.com

After Dark @ Exploratorium
Evening cocktail parties at the interactive science museum, with different themes; Thursdays 6pm-10pm. Pier 15 (Embarcadero at Green St.) www.exploratorium.edu

Aunt Charlie's Lounge
The intimate historic bar serves strong drinks and hosts frequent drag shows. 133 Turk St. www.facebook.com

 
Badlands
The historic bar hosts nightly dancing, drag shows, and Sunday Tea Dance. 4121 18th St. www.sfbadlands.com (Read our news article .)

Bar49
New Castro bar and restaurant hosts events, 49+ beer and wine selections, and weekend brunch. 2296 Market St. www.bar49sf.com

Beaux
Popular Castro club with drag entertainers, drinks and food. Corazon, a Latin night, 4th Fridays. Shangri-La second Saturdays. Latin Divas Live 4th Saturdays, You/nique 3rd Saturdays. Big Top Sundays; Pan Dulce Wednesdays, Friday Manimal and Circuit Papi with cute gogo dancers. Drag brunch Sat & Sun, 2pm & 4pm and weekly 'Drag Race' guest shows and viewings. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com

Bizerkeley FoodFest @ North Berkeley BART Station
Fifth annual celebration of vegan food, with  games, live music, multiple vendors. $12.50-$75, Sept. 7, 12pm-6pm, 1750 Sacramento St. https://ww.bizerkeleyfoodfest.com/

Blackbird
Classy Duboce area bar known for its tasty artisanal cocktails. 2124 Market St. www.blackbirdbar.com

Blush Wine Bar
Popular wine bar also has a tasty food menu, live music events, too. 476 Castro St. www.blushwinebar.com

The Cafe
Popular Castro nightclub with a dance floor and lounge areas, two bars, drag shows and gogo dancers on select nights; Picante Latin night on Thursdays. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com

Castro Country Club
Sober space with meetings, events, art exhibits and a cafe. Also, the club hosts the monthly Mascara drag show at Eureka Valley Rec. Center, 100 Collingwood St., hosted by Ophelia Knightly. 4058 18th St. www.castrocountryclub.org

Castro Night Market
New outdoor event with food vendors, merchant booths and live entertainment, select 3rd Fridays. www.castronightmarket.com

Castro Stroll
Shopping promotions, live music, art galleries and more. www.instagram.com/castrostroll

The Cat Club
SoMa nightclub hosts a variety of events, including New Wave retro nights, Dancing Ghosts dark wave and '80s glam pop. 1190 Folsom St. www.sfcatclub.com

The Cinch Saloon
Historic bar in the Polk district. 1723 Polk St. www.cinchsf.com

Club 1220
Walnut Creek's gay bar, with drag shows, karaoke and dance nights. 1220 Pine St., Walnut Creek. www.club1220.com

Decant SF
Lesbian-owned wine bar and shop with tasting and culinary events, local delivery and shipping. 1168 Folsom St. www.decantsf.com

Detour
Castro bar and restaurant with pinball and arcade games; drag bingo Wed. nights. 2200 Market St. www.detoursf.com

DNA Lounge
SoMa nightclub hosts many queer-friendly events; Also goth nights like Dark Sparkle, cosplay and themed events, Monday night Hubba burlesque show. 475 11th St. www.dnalounge.com

Downtown Divas Drag Brunch @ Hotel Zeppelin
Violinist Kippy Marks and drag star MGM Grande perform with cohosts Alexis Miranda and Queen Cougar at the hotel’s Game Room, $40, Sept. 6, 12:30pm. Guests Galilea Avila and Emma Peel, Sept. 20.
545 Post St.   www.opentable.com

Driftwood
Mixed cocktail bar hosts occasional queer-specific events. 1225 Folsom St. www.driftwoodbarsf.com

The Edge
Musical Mondays, The Monster Show (Thursdays), Beards & Booze and other events at the popular bar celebrating five decades. 4149 18th St. www.edgesf.com (Read our feature on The Monster Show .)

El Rio
The popular bar with a spacious outdoor patio hosts multiple LGBTQ events, including Hard French, Daytime Realness, Mango, Karaokiki with Dulce de Leche (Thursdays 9pm), live bands, comedy and more. 3158 Mission St. www.elriosf.com

The EndUp
Historic SoMa nightclub hosts straight, gay and whatever late-night dance events. 401 6th St. www.theendupsf.com

Eros
SF's queer sex club in a new location (site of the historic Bulldog Baths), open daily at 2pm to 10pm-12am; memberships available. 18+ only. $10-$30. 132 Turk St. www.erossf.com

Feelmore Social, Oakland
LGBTQ cocktail bar with a cool ambiance. 1542 Broadway. www.feelmoresocial.com (Read our feature article .)

Fireside Lounge, Alameda
Woman-owned LGBT-friendly bar with live shows, outdoor lounge, cool cocktails. 1453 Webster St. www.thefiresidelounge.com

Fluid510, Oakland
Nightclub blends LGBTQ, straight and fluid patronage. Wed-Fri, 4pm-2am. Sat & Sun 10am-2am. 1544 Broadway. www.fluid510.com (Read our feature article and our coverage of evening Jush Sundays and daytime drag brunch.)

Gilman Brewing Company
The bar hosts frequent LGBTQ events. 912 Gilman St. www.gilmanbrew.com

Ginger's
The historic downtown cocktail bar has DJed nights Wed-Thu 5pm-12am, 86 Hardie Place. www.gingers.bar

Golden Bull, Oakland
LGBTQ-friendly bar presents diverse live music acts and DJed events. 412 14th St. www.goldenbullbar.com

Haight-Ashbury Street Fair @ Haight St. at Masonic
46th annual festival of groovy things, past & present. Live music, food, crafts, beer/wine, and something herbal in the air… Sept. 7, 11am-5:30pm. www.haightashburystreetfair.org

Hand to Hand Gala @ Design center Galleria
Project Open Hand’s 40th annual gala fundraiser includes DJed dancing, entertainment, dinner and drinks. $300, Sept. 12, 6pm-12am, 101 Henry Adams St.   https://openhand.org/events/hand-hand-gala-2025

Hi Tops
Popular sports bar with multiple TV screens, events, and an irresistible snack menu. 2247 Market St. www.hitopsbar.com

Hole in the Wall Saloon
Local rock DJs like Don Baird play at the SoMa 'friendly neighborhood gay biker bar.' 1369 Folsom St. www.blackwolfmetal.com Also, listen online: https://www.twitch.tv/donbaird

Jolene's
SoMa queer and woman/trans-owned nightclub and restaurant. Ongoing: Coyote Queer, second Saturdays, with DJs Koslov & Livv, and a costume contest. Queer Karaoke Thursdays; UHaul SF on Fridays. Sunday brunch drag show 11am-5pm. 2700 16th St. www.jolenessf.com

Last Call
Small neighborhood bar with a fireplace and an old-school jukebox. 3988 18th St. https://www.thelastcallbar.com/

Lookout
Castro bar and restaurant with a panoramic view. Ongoing: MSG, a monthly drag show hosted by Sushi Rollita, 2nd Thursdays, 10:30pm. Also, Encore, the drag musical revue hosted by Nitrix Oxide (first Thursdays); Bounce (Sat. nights), Lips & Lashes Drag Brunch with host Carnie Asada (Sat. afternoons); Jock (Sunday nights), and frequent themed fundraisers. 3600 16th St. www.lookoutsf.com

Lone Star Saloon
DJed events at the historic bear bar, special events like Cubcake, plus regular nights of rock music and patio hangouts. 1354 Harrison St. www.lonestarsf.com

Martuni's
The intimate martini bar hosts music and cabaret acts. Pianist Russell Deason hosts the fun weekly Monday Happy Hour open mic gathering, with guest pianists 5:30pm-1am. Katya Presents, Sundays 7pm, a monthly music series hosted by Katya Smirnoff-Skyy with pianist Joe Wicht (Read our interview ). James J. Siegel hosts Literary Speakeasy, last monthly Thursdays. 4 Valencia St. at Market.

Midnight Sun
The popular bar celebrates five decades. Timeline Tuesdays, Honeypot Fridays with gogo studs; Nitrix Oxide's Killer Queen, 3rd Sundays, 9pm; Galaxy Saturday nights with DJ Lu; K-Pop and drag shows like Munro's at Midnight, 10pm Monday nights, Thursday Media Noche and more. 4067 18th St. www.midnightsunsf.com

Milk SF
Queer cafe in the Mission offers coffee, pastries, food, local drag shows. Sober Karaoke on 4th Wednesdays, 6pm-9:30pm. 302 Valencia St. www.milk-sf.com

The Mix
Castro bar with pool table, jukebox, popular patio. 4086 18th St.

Moby Dick
Popular neighborhood bar known for its colorful aquarium and tasty drinks celebrates 40 years. 4049 18th St. www.facebook.com/MobyDickBar

Mother Bar
Women's bar at the former Esta Noche is a welcome addition in the Mission. 3079 16th St. www.instagram.com/motherbarsf (Read our feature article .)

Next Level, Oakland
Valentin Carillo's newest nightclub soft-opens, with DJed music, gogo dancers, drinks and giveaways. Aug. 28. Coco Montrese's Janet Jackson drag tribute Aug. 29. 341 13th St. www.nextleveloakland.com . (Read our news story .)

Oakland Pride
15th annual LGBTQ block party with related events. Kickoff party with Jus10, DJs Ignacia and Holla, Sept. 5 at Fluid510, 1544 Broadway. Parade and festival with mainstage acts CeCe Peniston, Martha Wash, Kamaiya. $10-$20, Sept. 7, 11am-6pm, Broadway at 14th St. www.oaklandpride.org

Oaklash Pride @ 7th West, Oakland
Enjoy a queer afternoon & evening with drag (Beatrix LaHine, Obsidienne Obsurd, Amoura Teese, Dulce De Leche & more), DJs (Star Amerasu, Tom Marsi, Brown Angel) at three stages, Sept. 6 screening of ‘Noah’s Arc: the Movie, with a cast panel talk; food, vendors art & more. $12.50, Sept. 6, 4pm-10pm, 1255 7th St. www.eventbrite.com

Oasis
The multiple award-winning nightclub's shows include mostly drag acts. 'Jurassiq Parq,' a drag parody of the dinosaur films, extended thru Sept. 13 (Read our feature article ). Fat Slut dance & drag night, Sept. 5, 9:30pm. ‘Bullride,’ a live table reading of an unfilmed X-rated movie, Sept. 7, 7pm & 9:30pm. Wajih Sobh’s Allure Art Show Sept. 8, 7pm. ‘Fauxnique: So Relevant,’ Sept. 10, 7pm (sold out) & 10pm. Ho-Down, queer country line-dancing Sept. 12, 9:30pm. Ongoing: Princess, the weekly Saturday night drag show, 10pm-2am (Nymphia Wind Sept. 6). Reparations, the Fridays all-Black drag show, 10pm-2am (Beyoncé ‘Eras’ tribute Sept. 13, 9:30pm. 398 11th St. www.sfoasis.com

Oasis Legal Services Celebration @ Oakstop Event Hall, Oakland
Eighth annual party to celebrate the queer immigrant support organization, with performers, food, drinks, dessert bar, silent auction and more. $40-$100 and up, Sept. 12, 6pm-9pm, 2323 Broadway.
www.events.humanitix.com/oasis-communitycelebration25

Pilsner Inn
Historic neighborhood bar (since 1980) with an easy vibe, pool table, an excellent beer selection, and a spacious back patio. 225 Church St. www.pilsnerinn.com

Powerhouse Bar
Popular cruisy SoMa bar hosts many events. Underwear Thursdays; Juanita MORE!'s Powerblouse (fun drag makeovers) 1st Saturdays; Glamamore's Pillows drag show on Mondays; and Beat Pig, 3rd Saturdays; Lance Holman's Lick It, 4th Saturdays. Flex, the muscle worship night with big guys, each fifth Friday. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhousebar.com

QBar
The Castro bar and dance club has reopened. Sept. 4, 9pm-2am: ParaDisco with DJs Xander and The Barbary Ghost playing a Pet Shop Boys and Erasure night; no cover. Also, Cake on Saturdays with DJ Cip & guests. 456 Castro St. www.instagram.com/qbarsf . (Read our news article .)

Que Rico, Oakland
LGBT Latinx nightclub features fun drag shows, DJed grooves, and gogo studs. 381 15th St., Oakland. www.quericonightclub.com

Queer Bowling @ Mission Bowling Club
Enjoy beer and bowling with your friends. $14, 6pm, and each third Monday. 3176 17th St. www.missionbowlingclub.com

R3 Hotel, Guerneville
The hotel hosts parties at its poolside and bar; also holiday pool parties, karaoke, drag brunch and more. 16390 4th St. www.ther3hotel.com

Rainbow Cattle Company, Guerneville
The Russian River's LGBTQ bar serves up local fun since 1979. 16220 Main St. www.queersteer.com

Rikki's
New women's sports bar just opened and is a big hit. 2223 Market St. www.rikkisbarsf.com (Read our news article .)

Roller Disco @ Church of 8 Wheels
Roller-skating nights with groovy tunes, plus skate rentals. $5-$18. 554 Fillmore St. www.churchof8wheels.com

Runway 2025: Myths & Legends @ Herbst Theater
GAPA’s annual pageant of Asian drag glamour and gallantry, with a mythological theme. $30-$107, Sept. 13, 7pm, 401 Van Ness Ave. www.cityboxoffice.com

SF Eagle
The famed leather bar has numerous events. Monthly Tom of Finland leather gear and erotic art night, each last Friday; Karaoke, Mondays 8pm, hosted by Dana Morrigan. BLUF Cigar Buddies 2nd Fridays; Adonis, a muscle fetish night, first Fridays; Woof, the pup/handlers play party, first Saturday afternoons, 3pm; Filth, first Saturday nights; monthly Lair with host Suppository Spelling; the classic Sunday beverage bust, 3pm-7pm, $10-$15. 398 12th St. www.thesfeagle.com

SoMa Nights
New bimonthly bar and restaurant crawl in South of Market; 2nd and 4th Thursdays, 5pm-9pm on the 6th St. to 10th St. block of Folsom. www.soma-nights.com

Steamworks Berkeley
The award-winning bathhouse hosts special events, DJed nights, and a cruisy vibe. $5-$200 (6-month membership). 18+ only. Open 24/7 every day. 2107 4th St., Berkeley. www.steamworksbaths.com

The Stud
The historic bar has reopened at a new location with events, drag shows, and guest DJs each week. 'T-Minus 60min' book launch party Sept. 10, 7pm. Drag Alive on Fridays; the cruisy Truck, Wednesdays, 9pm. 1123 Folsom St. www.studsf.com (Read our feature article .)

Suavecito @ Space 550
Valentino Presents and Club Papi present a weekly Saturday Latin dance night with DJs; Sonora Tropicana band, drag acts, gogo guys, three dance rooms, outdoor lounge; $15-$25. 9:30pm-3am. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.suavecitosf.com

Summer Bar & Lounge, Oakland
New East Bay nightclub with drag shows, gogo dancers, karaoke and open mic nights. 526 8th St. www.thebarsummer.com

Sundance Saloon @ Space 550
The (mostly) country music line-dancing, two-stepping night, Thursdays and Sundays, 5:30pm-10pm. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.sundancesaloon.org

Thee Parkside
Nightclub hosts concerts by rock, punk, folk bands and more. 1600 17th St. https://www.theeparkside.com/

Toad Hall
Spacious Castro bar with a small dance floor and back patio. 4146 18th St.

Town Bar & Lounge, Oakland
Intimate stylish Art Deco bar serves up signature cocktails, DJed Fab Disq-O, first and third Sundays; dance nights, too. 2001 Broadway. www.goingtotownoakland.com (Read our feature article .)

Trax
Historic Haight gay bar (since 1940) has temporarily closed and will reopen soon (still gay) as Mary's on Haight. 1437 Haight St. www.traxbarsf.com (Read our news article .)

Turf Club, Hayward
The 'world famous' East Bay nightclub hosts live bands, dancing, outdoor patio, and Gag, the drag show, last Sundays. 22519 Main St. www.worldfamousturfclub.com

Twin Peaks
Enjoy a great view and strong drinks at the historic tavern, now in its 50th year. 401 Castro St. www.twinpeakstavern.com

Underground SF
Intimate Lower Haight nightclub hosts varied DJed events, including LGBTQ nights like Hella Tight; also a cafe by day. French Press, first Thursdays. 424 Haight St. www.undergroundsf.com

White Horse Bar
Enjoy indoor and outdoor drinks at the famous Oakland bar, now in its 90th year, under new ownership. Respect, a monthly tea dance with veteran DJ Page Hodel, first Sundays, 4pm-8pm. (Read our feature article .); music nights, new dance parties and more. 6551 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. www.whitehorsebar.com

Wild Side West
Historic lesbian and friends bar in Bernal Heights with an airy backyard garden (stairs). 424 Cortland Ave. www.wildsidewest.com

Zhuzh
New queer bar with a stylish retro vibe; DJed dance nights, drag shows, including Too Gay to Function hosted on Sundays by Juannina Million, 5pm-9pm. 1548 California St. www.zhuzh.bar

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

111 Minna Gallery
Downtown gallery exhibits vibrant contemporary artworks. 'Bridge Studio Collective,' a group exhibit curated by Robert Bowen, thru Sept. 15. 111 Minna St. 111minnagallery.com

500 Capp Street
Unusual art installation gallery. 'Still Burning, Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Ant Farm's Media Burn,' an exhibit commemorating the 1975 art event where a car smashed into a wall of burning TVs. 500 Capp St. www.500cappstreet.org

836M
New gallery and performance space hosts events and exhibits. 836 Montgomery St. www.836m.org

Acion Latina
Community organization sponsors events, and hosts exhibits in its gallery. 2958 24th St. www.accionlatina.org

African American Art & Culture Complex
Exhibits and events featuring Black artists. 'Be Seen: The Genius and Gaze of Black Creatives,' a portrait photography exhibit by Marcella Sanchez. 762 Fulton St. www.aaacc.org

Art Haus Gallery
Artist and gallerist Elizabeth Dekker's Noe Valley gallery. 3977 24th St. www.arthaussf.com

Aquarium of the Bay
Aquatic museum of sea life hosts many special events. Daily, 11am-6pm. Pier 39 Embarcadero at Beach St. www.aquariumofthebay.org

Arion Press Gallery
Print and design art exhibits. 1802 Hayes St., The Presidio. www.gershoni.com

Asian Art Museum
'Gurjeet Singh: When Words Hurt,' thru March 23, 2026. Historic and contemporary works by Asian artists. 'Vikrant Bhise: Archival Historicity/Dalit Panthers,' works by the Indian contemporary artist inspired by the Black Panthers, thru Mar. 23, 2026. 'Qi Baishi: Inspiration in Ink,' 'A Billion Buddhas: The Awakened Ones in Himalayan Tradition,' summer film screenings, community events, and other exhibits. Fri-Mon 10am-5pm. Thu 1pm-8pm. 200 Larkin St. www.asianart.org

Artists Television Access
Screenings of unusual art films and videos, readings and live music. 992 Valencia St. www.othercinema.com www.atasite.org

Azgour Art Studio
Contemporary gallery showcases local artists. 'Resonant Forms,' works by four artists, Aug. 8-Sept. 28. Opening reception Aug. 29, 5:30pm-7:30pm. Comedy night Aug. 30, 7pm, hosted by Wonder Dave. 320 West Portal Ave. www.azgourart.com

Balloon Museum
'Emotion Air,' a fun immersive pop art installation of several artists' works, $40-$60, with after-hours evening events thru Sept. 3301 Lyon St. www.balloonmuseum.world

Berkeley Art Center
Contemporary art exhibits. 1275 Walnut St., Berkeley. www.berkeleyartcenter.org

Berkeley Art Museum/Pacific Film Archive
'Lee ShinJa: Drawing with Thread,' thru Feb. 1/26. 'Art Wall/Stephanie Syjuco: Present Tense (Roll Call)' thru June 28/26. Matrix 287/Berenice Olmedoa: To ti en einai,' thru Nov. 23. Ongoing film screenings include 'Film Noir Beyond the City,' Robert Altman, Bruce Connor and Andrei Tarkovsky retrospectives. 2155 Center St., Berkeley. www.bampfa.org

Bob Mizer Foundation
Exhibits of vintage male physique and erotica prints. ‘Stuart Sandford: In Youth is Pleasure,’ Sept. 4 thru Nov. 29. Opening reception Sep. 4, 6pm.  'Discovering George Dureau' recorded panel with biographer Howard Smith available online. 920 Larkin St. www.bobmizer.org

Bounty
Art gallery exhibits works by Charles Trapolin, antiquities, and other artists. 609 Pacific Ave. www.bountysf.com

Bubble Planet @ Henry J. Kaiser Center, Oakland
New interactive fun exhibit of colorful balloon and bubbly art-play spaces. $25-$40, thru Sept. 28, 10 10th St. www.bubble-planet.com

California Academy of Sciences
The fascinating science museum includes live creatures (aquarium, terrarium) and educational exhibits. 'Hatchday' celebrations for 30-year-old Claude the albino alligator, thru Sept. 30. 'The State of Nature,' specimens, cultural objects, models, interactive experiences, videos, and sculptural elements, and more. 'The World's Largest Dinosaurs,' an exhibit about sauropods. 'Living Worlds,' a planetarium show. Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm. Sun 11am-5pm. Monthly Nightlife Live parties 6pm-10pm. 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. www.calacademy.org

California Institute of Integral Studies
Art and culture center hosts classes, workshops, exhibits. 1453 Mission St. www.artsatciis.org

Cartoon Art Museum
Exhibits of fun cartoon artists' works. 'Backstage with Edward Gorey: A Centennial Exhibition' of drawings and ephemera by the late gay illustrator, thru Aug. 10. 'Sunday Funnies,' original panels from the permanent collection. 'A Treasury of Animation,' rare production art from the 1920s-1990s. 'I Left My Art in San Francisco,' an exhibit of comic treasures from the museum's archives. Ongoing: 'The Batman Armory.' Open daily (except Wed.) 11am-5pm. 781 Beach St. www.cartoonart.org

Castro Art Walk
Tour galleries in the Castro District on a self-guided tour. 5pm-8pm; first Fridays. www.castroartwalk.com (Read our feature article .)

Catharine Clark Gallery
Contemporary art exhibits. 248 Utah St. www.cclarkgallery.com

CCA Wattis Institute for Contemporary Arts
Student, faculty and guest-artist exhibits. 145 Hooper St, www.cca.edu

Chabot Space & Science Center
NASA Ames Visitor Center with 360-degree projection, exhibits, models and more. Art + Science first Fridays with pop-up galleries, open mic and scifi fun. Programs include live science programs each Wed. 10:30am, virtual telescope viewings each Sat. 9pm. $25 Adults 18+. Gen. Free-$30. 1000 Skyline Blvd, Oakland. www.chabotspace.org

Chan National Queer Arts Center
Performance space features visual art as well. 'Kaanyaga,' works by Jethro Patakinghug, focus on Asian drag and trans performers. 170 Valencia St. www.sfgmc.org

Chinese Cultural Center
Exhibits, programs and events at 750 Kearny St. and at the new Design Store, 41 Ross Alley. www.cccsf.us

Col Gallery
Contemporary gallery, 887 Beach St. www.colgallery.com

Conservatory of Flowers
Beautiful indoor and outdoor floral exhibits in the classic arboretum; special events and parties, too. 100 JFK Drive, Golden Gate Park. Free/$12. www.conservatoryofflowers.org

Contemporary Jewish Museum
Closed thru 2025. 736 Mission St. www.thecjm.org

Crisis Club Gallery, Oakland
East Bay gallery hosts art workshops and exhibits. 5887 San Pablo Ave. www.facebook.com/crisisclubgallery

David Ireland House
Home converted into an intimate gallery of unusual art projects by the late artist and designer and other invited artists. 500 Capp St. www.500cappstreet.org (Read our article .)

de Young Museum
Contemporary and classical collections of American, African, Oceanic, costume arts, sculpture and more. Upcoming: ‘Art of Manga,’ an expansive showing of multiple cartoon artists’ works, Sept. 27-Jan. 2026. 'Paul McCartney Photographs 1963-64: Eyes of the Storm,' a multi-room exhibit of The Beatles' bass player's rediscovered never before seen photos from the band's 1963-4 concert tour; extended thru Oct. 5 ( Read our review ). Renovated galleries for Arts of Indigenous America open Aug. 26. 'Contemporary Painting in Papua New Guinea: Mathias Kauage and His Family,' thru March 15, 2026. New monthly Late Night Editions with food trucks, cocktails, DJed music and exhibition-viewing, $15-$30. Reg. free/$25. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive. www.deyoung.famsf.org

Exploratorium
Talks and demos with a science theme, including comet-cam and more; 'Adventures in AI,' thru Sept. 14. weekly After Dark nighttime parties (6pm-10pm). Free/$23, Pier 15. www.exploratorium.edu

Foreign Lens
Candid City street photography collective's debut group exhibit. 513 Green St. www.candidcityspc.com

Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture
Historic Marina center hosts plays, dance concerts, exhibits and community events. 2 Marina Blvd. www.fortmason.org

Fort Point
'Black Gold: Stories Untold,' a group indoor/outdoor exhibit at the landmark fort, focusing on untold stories of Black gold rush prospectors; thru Nov. 2, 201 Marine Drive. www.for-site.org

Fraenkel Gallery
Contemporary art exhibits. 49 Geary St. www.fraenkelgallery.com

Galeria de la Raza
Arts center focuses on Latine art and events. Wed-Fri 12pm-5pm. 2779 Folsom St. www.galeriadelaraza.org

Gallery 16
Modern art and design exhibits. 501 3rd St. www.gallery16.com

Gallery Wendi Norris
Contemporary artists' works. 436 Jackson St. www.gallerywendinorris.com

GLBT History Museum
‘Contested Curriculum: LGBTQ History Goes to School,’ a panel on book censorship with scholar Don Romesburg, Rick Oculto and Carolyn Laub, Sept. 4, 6pm. Éamon McGivern's 'A/History,' an exhibit of paintings visualizing trans people, thru Oct. ‘Alive in the Archives, an online talk with researchers Alex Melody Burnett and Martin H. González Romero, Sept. 19, 6pm. Also, 'Queer Past Becomes Present,' the original Rainbow Flag, and 'The Flag in the Map: Charting Rainbow Flag Stories.' Online exhibits as well. $10/free for members. 4127 18th St. www.glbthistory.org

Gregangelo Museum
Take tours at the 27-room mansion filled with eccentric unusual interactive artworks and performances. 225 San Leandro Way. www.gregangelomuseum.com

Gray Area
Unusual and contemporary art exhibits and installations. 2665 Mission St. www.grayarea.org

Haight Street Art Center
Pop and contemporary art exhibits. Thu-Sun 12pm-6pm. 215 Haight St. www.haightstreetart.org

Harvey Milk Photo Center
View exhibits of masterful photographic art; Member, Staff & Volunteer Show, thru Oct. 4. 50 Scott St. www.harveymilkphotocenter.org

Headlands Center for the Arts
Installations and contemporary exhibits of site-specific art at the historic former military buildings. 944 Simmonds Road, Sausalito. www.headlands.org

Hunters Point Shipyard
Gallery, artists in residence and open studios events throughout the year celebrates 40 years. 451 Galvez; 1 Rankin St. www.shipyardartists.com

Johansson Projects, Oakland
Contemporary art gallery. 2300 Telegraph Ave. www.johanssonprojects.com

 
Jonathan Carver Moore
Contemporary art gallery. Luis Felipe Chávez' 'INTERmedio,' August 28-Sept. 27. Opening reception Sept. 4, 6:30pm-7:30pm. 966 Market St. www.jonathancarvermoore.com (Read our interview with Chávez and our previous feature article .)

Kadist
Gallery often exhibits unique multimedia installations. 3295 20th St. www.kadist.org

Ken Jones @ San Francisco AIDS Foundation
Exhibit of art works by the Black Brothers Esteem member, long-term HIV survivor and prolific mixed-media artist; ongoing. 1035 Market St., 4th floor lobby. www.sfaf.org

Legion of Honor
Centennial Celebration of the museum with events through the year. European and ancient art, giant Renaissance landscapes and historic paintings, plus classical sculptures and contemporary works, from Degas, Manet, Caillebotte and Vuillard to Egyptian, Greek and Roman artifacts. Upcoming: ‘Manet & Morisot,’ paintings by the two Impressionist colleagues, Oct. 11-Mar. 1, 2026. Free/$15. Tue-Sun, 9:30am-5:15pm. 100 34th Ave, Lincoln Park. www.legionofhonor.famsf.org

Letterform Archive
'10 x 10 x10,' an exhibit celebrating the archive's ten year anniversary, thru Oct. 2325 3rd St. www.letterformarchive.org

Loom+Ten Gallery
New intimate gallery; Jun Yang's 'Every(body) is Enough,' an installation of murals and sculptural works focusing on queer embodiment, thru Sept. 8. Wed-Sat 12pm-4pm and by appointment. 2323 Market St. www.loom-ten.com

Lost Art Salon
Intimate gallery exhibits small and unusual works of note by contemporary and early 20th-century artists, including LGBT artists, abstract Expressionist and figurative works. Curator’s Talk, Sept. 6, 4pm: Jewish Expressionism in mid-20th-century, focusing on Marc Chagall, Charlotte Solomon and the newly discovered Lette Valeska. (Read our feature article .) 245 S. Van Ness. #303. www.lostartsalon.com

Louise Lawrence Transgender Archive
Renovated and re-opened archives, sponsored by the GLBT Historical Society; open to students, scholars, and the public by appointment only. 3021 Irwin St., Vallejo. www.lltransarchive.org

MAG Galleries
Contemporary art gallery in the Castro. Greg Climer’s “Crushes,” quilted portraits and textile-based animations, Sept. 5-28; opening reception Sept. 5, 5pm-9pm. 3931 18th St. www.mag-galleries.com

Manna Gallery, Oakland
Contemporary works. 473 25th St., Oakland. www.mannagallery.com

Maybaum Gallery
Contemporary artists' works. 49 Geary St. #416. www.maybaumgallery.com

Mercury 20 Gallery
Contemporary art gallery. 475 25th St., Oakland. www.mercurytwenty.com

Minnesota Street Art Project
Multiple galleries host different artist exhibits. New: di Rosa San Francisco, Anglim/Trimble, Rena Bransten Gallery (Oliver Lee Jackson Sept. 6-Oct. 25), Jenkins Johnson Gallery, George Adams Gallery, Nancy Toomey Fine Art (Jud Bergeron’s ‘After Context,’ sculptures and paintings, thru Oct. 25), Municipal Bonds, Re.riddle (Kathryn Kert Green's 'Line Storm' thru Sept. 20), Eleanor Harwood Gallery, Hashimoto Gallery, The Jones Institute, Thomas+Projects. 1275 Minnesota St. www.minnesotastreetproject.com

Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts
Exhibits of art by Latine artists, plus performances, films and events. 2869 Mission St. www.missionculturalcenter.org

Modern Eden Gallery
Contemporary art exhibits. 'Flux,' Lacey Bryant's reimagined SF landscapes, thru Sept. 21. 1100 Sutter St. https://www.moderneden.com

Museo Italo Americano
Museum of local Italian historical exhibits. Fort Mason Center, 2 Marina Blvd. www.museoitaloamericano.org

Museum of the African Diaspora
Exhibits include contemporary works by African and Black artists, and about Black culture; also, award-winning films, talks and music performances. Free-$12. 685 Mission St. www.moadsf.org

Museum of Craft & Design
Innovative art and design exhibits. Beau McCall's 'Buttons On!,' an exhibit of button-festooned couture and sculptures, and Neil Forrest and John Roloff's 'A Roadmap to Stardust,' both thru Sept. 14. Free first Thursdays. 2589 3rd St. www.sfmcd.org

New Museum Los Gatos
New exhibition space; 'Snapshots of Pride: Photographer Ted Sahl's Chronicle of the South Bay LGBTQ+ Community,' and 'Greater Bay Area Open,' both thru Oct. 4. Free-$10, 106 E. Main St. www.numulosgatos.org

NIAD Art Center, Richmond
The art studio for developmentally disabled adults shares in-person and online exhibits and sells beautiful works of art, and online exhibitions. ‘Somewhere in Time,’ a group exhibit of works by 12 artists, Sept 6-Oct. 31. 551 23rd St., Richmond. www.niadart.org

Oakland Museum
'Black Power' and 'Dorothea Lange: Photography as Activism,' both ongoing. Friday night interactive displays and live music, 5pm-9pm. Free/$25. 1000 Oak St., Oakland. www.museumca.org

Queer Arts Featured
LGBTQ-owned gallery, shop, and community space set in the former site of Harvey Milk's camera shop. 'Positives & Negatives,' an exhibit of 'Memories from Castro Camera in the Time of Harvey Milk, including photos by Dan Nicoletta. 575 Castro St. www.queerartsfeatured.com

Queer Histories of Hawai'i
Online virtual tour of a new exhibit showcasing the intersection of indigenous Hawaiian and LGBTQ cultures. www.bishopmuseum.org

Radian Gallery
Contemporary art exhibits. 440 Brannan St. https://donhershman.com/ www.radiangallery.com

Robert Koch Gallery
Contemporary art exhibits. 49 Geary St. www.kochgallery.com

Root Division
Gallery hosts exhibits, classes, artist studios and events. 'Introduction 2025,' a group exhibit of 12 artists' works, Aug. 13-Sept. 20. 1131 Mission St. www.rootdivision.org

Rosebud Gallery
Cabure Bonugli's queer-owned art gallery and community space showcases local artists. ‘JuntEsTogether,’ a group exhibit honoring Hispanic Heritage Month with queer Latine artists in the Bay Area, opening reception Sept. 4, 6pm-10pm, thru Sept. 839 Larkin St. www.rosebudgallery.com

Rosie the Riveter Historical Park, Richmond
Museum showcases the real women who built WWII planes, with films, events and talks; now in its 25th anniversary. 1414 Harbour Way. www.rosietheriveter.org

Ruth's Table
Intimate arts nonprofit showcases works created by elders, disabled people and LGBTQ artists, plus workshops and events. Tue-Fri 10am-5pm. 3160 21st St. www.ruthstable.org

San Francisco Historical Society Museum
Ongoing and new exhibits, and historian talks, of fascinating local history. Thu-Sat 10am-4pm. 608 Commercial St. www.sfhistory.org

San Jose Museum of Art
Contemporary and traditional art exhibits. 'Tending and Dreaming: Stories from the Collection.' 110 South Market St. www.sjmusart.org

San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles
Handmade fabric art exhibits. 520 South 1st Street, San Jose. www.sjquiltmuseum.org

Schlomer Haus Gallery
Castro/Duboce gay-owned intimate art gallery. 2128 Market St. Tue-Sat 12pm to 6pm and by appointment. www.schlomerhaus.com

Sebastopol Center for the Arts
Contemporary and traditional arts and folk crafts. 282 South High St. www.sebarts.org

SF Arts Commission Gallery
Contemporary art exhibits; 401 Van Ness Ave. Also, exhibits at City Hall, Ground Floor and North Light Court. 1 Dr Carlton B Goodlett Place. www.sfartscommission.org

SF Botanical Garden
Beautiful spacious gardens with multiple plants, trees and flowers. Free entry for SF residents; others $3-$10. 1199 9th Ave., Golden Gate Park. www.sfbg.org

SF Camerawork
Diverse photography exhibits; The Storehouse at Fort Mason Center for the Arts & Culture, 2 Marina Boulevard, Building D. www.sfcamerawork.org

SF Museum of Modern Art
Alonzo King LINES Ballet performs in conjunction with the video installation 'Ragnar Kjartansson: The Visitors,' Sept 6, 12pm-4pm (installation thru Sept. 28). 'New Work: Sheila Hicks,' large fabric sculptures, thru Aug. 2026. 'People Make This Place: SFAI Stories,' an exhibit about the history of the San Francisco Art Institute, thru July 5/26. 'Kunié Sugiura: Photopainting,' thru Sept. 14. Kara Walker's 'Fortuna and the Community Garden,' thru Spring 2026. Yayoi Kusama's 'Aspiring to Pumpkin's Love, the Love in My Heart,' thru Nov. 16. Pop, Abstract, and Figurative art collections. Reg. admission free/$25. Mon 10am-5pm. Thu 1pm-8pm. Fri-Sun 10am-5pm. First Thursdays free. 151 Third St. www.sfmoma.org

SF Public Library
Lava Thomas' 'Portrait of a Phenomenal Woman,' a large sculpture honoring author Maya Angelou. Book displays and exhibits at the James C. Hormel LGBTQIA Center, 3rd floor. Also, book exhibits on the 6th floor. 100 Larkin St. www.sfpl.org

SOMArts Cultural Center
Community art exhibits and events. Reg. hours 11am-4pm. 934 Brannan St. www.somarts.org

Southern Exposure
Unusual art and installations and online projects. 3030 20th St. www.soex.org

Telematic
Gallery focusing on innovative experimental works in video and electronic media. 323 10th St. www.tttelematiccc.com

Tenderloin Museum
New and permanent exhibits of neighborhood history. 398 Eddy St. www.tenderloinmuseum.org

Tunnel Tops @ Presidio
New outdoor beautifully landscaped area with scenic views, recreation, ranger talks, murals, and visiting food trucks. www.presidiotunneltops.gov

Vessel Gallery
In-person and online exhibits. 490 Lake Park Ave., Oakland. www.vessel-gallery.com

Vessel Gallery
In-person and online exhibits. 490 Lake Park Ave., Oakland. www.vessel-gallery.com

Walt Disney Family Museum
Located in The Presidio, the museum dedicated to the art of Disney films hosts online and in-person exhibits, classes and events. 'Mary Blair: Mid-Century Magic,' an exhibit of the Disney designer's work ('Cinderella,' 'Alice in Wonderland,' 'Peter Pan,' and the theme park attraction 'It's a Small World'), thru Sept. 8. $5-$15. 104 Montgomery St. www.waltdisney.org

We Were There
Online tours of art museums, showcasing hidden and overlooked LGBT themes, subjects and artists. www.wewerethere.org

Winchester Mystery House, San Jose
Strange and beautiful mansion with tour exhibits, brunch service and live performances celebrates 100 years. 525 S. Winchester Blvd. www.winchestermysteryhouse.com

Worth Ryder Art Gallery, UC Berkeley
Educational art space for students, faculty and alumni. 'Both Sides Now 10: A Decade of Artists' Film & Video from the UK and Hong Kong,' thru Sept. 30. 116 Anthropology + Art Practice Building (first floor), UC Berkeley Campus, College Avenue at Bancroft Way. www.art.berkeley.edu/gallery

Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
Unusual modern art exhibits and installations, film screenings, murals, and tours. 'Bay Area Then,' a group exhibit with multiple artists' (Nao Bustamonte, Mike "Dream" Francisco, Alicia McCarthy, Barry McGee and others) visions of local disasters, survival, and futures; thru Jan. 25. Also,  'MAKIBAKA: A Living Legacy,' a group exhibit, celebrates the culture, contributions, and presence of the Filipino community in the SoMa neighborhood and Bay Area. 701 Mission St. www.ybca.org

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