The summer season is on its way, and Memorial Day is right around the corner with a host of incredible parties, events and parades to get you out of the house and into the fun-loving feeling.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway with music and merriment, a day spent yachting on the Bay, a bit of color and flavor closer to home, or a day spent rooting for the home team, San Francisco offers a wide variety of fun for the whole family and then some.
See also: Voting Is Now Open For 2023 Best Of The City: San Francisco
Check out our picks of fun things to do this Memorial Day weekend, and make the most of your three days of magic.
Saturday and Sunday, May 27 to 28
2665 Mission St. / Website
For 45 years, the Mission District has spent Memorial Day weekend bursting with colors, flavors, sights and sounds as the famed neighborhood brings a Carnaval festival and parade to all who celebrate. The two-day festival begins on Saturday with musical performances by Colombian cumbia group La Sonora Dinamita and legendary Cuban band Los Van Van. The party continues on Sunday with the Grand Parade. There will be plenty of food and fun, so come dressed to impress and get lost in the magic!
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Monday to Sunday, May 26 to 29
575 3rd St., Napa / Website
One of the biggest music festivals in the country, BottleRock in Napa is set to host three days of music headlined by Post Malone, The Smashing Pumpkins, Lizzo, Duran Duran, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Lil Nas X and so many more. Because its Napa, you can be sure the drinks will be above and beyond those at most festivals, plus you can take advantage of an on-site spa, a silent disco, a culinary stage and more; all in the sprawling beauty of California wine country. Visit the official website for more information about nearby hotels and other amenities.
Thursday to Sunday, May 25 to 28
Monterey County Fairgrounds, 2004 Fairground Rd., Monterey / Website
Wu-Tang Clan, Rebelution, Thievery Corporation, Michael Franti and Spearhead, Sublime with Rome and Cypress Hill are just a handful of the artists coming to this year’s California Roots Festival in Monterey. Four days of reggae, roots music and hip-hop are paired with food vendors, on-site activations and beautiful blue skies at this family-friendly event. Check the official website for full lineup details and tickets.
Sunday, May 28
4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara / Website
Spend your day off with family and friends, taking in the chills and thrills of the area's most exciting amusement park. From water attractions that will keep you cool, to roller coasters that will raise the hair on your arms, and fun rides that are good for kids and parents alike, California’s Great Adventure offers it all. Sunday brings a special Memorial Day fireworks display as well, beginning at 9:45 p.m.
Monday, May 29
Yacht Harbor, Slip 465, Sausalito / Website
What better way to soak up the sun and celebration than with the Bay breeze flowing through your hair? Spend Monday taking in the views of the city and the Berkeley hills from the deck of the Schooner Freda B, a traditional 80-footer, while the captain regales you with stories of San Francisco’s past. You’ll also have the chance to snap great Bayside pics of Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, Coit Tower, the Palace of Fine Arts, Angel Island, Sausalito and more. Wine beer mimosas and nonalcoholic drinks can be ordered a la carte. Meet at Yacht Harbor, Slip 465 in Sausalito, CA., and be prepared to board at 1:15 p.m. No high-heels are allowed, to ensure passengers’ safety. Visit the official website to learn more.
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Monday, May 29
Faction Brewing 2501 Monarch St., Alameda / Website
From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., feast yourself on the flavors of the Caribbean, Central and South America at this Latin food festival sure to please. A variety of vendors will be lined up to share their wares, while a live DJ will play Latin beats to move your feet and keep you dancing between bites. This outdoor event is family-friendly, and tickets are free at the website linked above.
Monday to Wednesday, May 29 to 31
Oracle Park, 24 Willie Mays Plaza / Website
Take yourself out to the ball game for one or all three of the SF Giants’ games against the Pittsburgh Pirates, coming to Oracle Park just in time for the holiday. Grab a big bag of popcorn, eat a hot dog in pure Memorial Day tradition, and root for the home team while they play their very best!
Looking for more fun on the town, whether it’s a holiday or not? Make your own celebration and try one or more of the incredible restaurants on our San Francisco Foodie guide.
Photography by: Getty
