Date Night Ideas

Brad Mehldau, Christian McBride, Marcus Gilmore

These four exclusive concerts bring together three of the greatest artists in jazz today, including pianist Brad Mehldau, bassist Christian McBride, and drummer Marcus Gilmore. Described by The New York Times as “the most influential jazz pianist of the last 20 years,” Mehldau has done more to extend and refine the piano trio’s possibilities than any artist in the last quarter century. Christian McBride, an eight-time GRAMMY winner and former SFJAZZ Resident Artistic Director, is considered the premier jazz bassist of the 21st century. Marcus Gilmore, heir to jazz royalty, is known for his dynamic performances with renowned artists. This collaboration promises a remarkable musical experience.

SFJAZZ Center
Thurs, Apr 3 • 7:30 PM

Dreamstate

Welcome to your trance destination. Created in 2015, Dreamstate carries the mantle for all forms of trance music—from deep progressive to psytrance and all BPMs in between—and aspires to create an experience as vivid and diverse as the genre it was inspired by. Envision a world where ethereal beats and timeless melodies transport you from the everyday to a higher state of understanding. Trance music has the power to connect, the power to soothe, and the power to heal. At Dreamstate, we experience that power together. A global movement backed by a passionate community, Dreamstate has held festivals in Mexico, the UK, Australia, Poland, Canada, and all throughout the United States. Dreamstate-hosted stages have also been featured at EDCs in China and India. Grab your boarding pass and prepare to enter Dreamstate. Ages 18 & Over. Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5, 2025.

Cow Palace
Fri, Apr 4 • 12:00 AM

Ricardo Grilli

Get ready for an electrifying night with Ricardo Grilli, the Brazilian-American guitar virtuoso redefining modern jazz! Known for his soulful sound, cutting-edge improvisation, and seamless fusion of jazz and Latin influences, Grilli brings a fresh, dynamic energy to the scene. With a dream-team résumé that includes sharing the stage with Chris Potter, Eric Harland, Mark Turner, Aaron Parks, and Eric Alexander, Grilli has captivated audiences at legendary venues like Blue Note NYC, Smalls Jazz Club, The 55 Bar, and The Iridium. From NYC to international festivals, his music is turning heads and raising the bar. Whether he’s dropping mind-bending solos or reinventing jazz standards, Ricardo Grilli is a force to be reckoned with. Don't miss your chance to catch jazz’s next big thing in his debut residency at Black Cat Jazz Club. Come for the music. Stay for the magic. This is jazz on fire.

Black Cat
Fri, Apr 4 • 7:00 PM

Dreamstate

Welcome to your trance destination. Created in 2015, Dreamstate carries the mantle for all forms of trance music—from deep progressive to psytrance and all BPMs in between—and aspires to create an experience as vivid and diverse as the genre it was inspired by. Envision a world where ethereal beats and timeless melodies transport you from the everyday to a higher state of understanding. Trance music has the power to connect, the power to soothe, and the power to heal. At Dreamstate, we experience that power together. A global movement backed by a passionate community, Dreamstate has held festivals in Mexico, the UK, Australia, Poland, Canada, and all throughout the United States. Dreamstate-hosted stages have also been featured at EDCs in China and India. Grab your boarding pass and prepare to enter Dreamstate. Ages 18 & Over.

Cow Palace
Sat, Apr 5 • 12:00 AM

BroadwaySF Open House

Our doors are open! Step behind the curtain and experience the Orpheum Theatre like never before at our complimentary Open House on Sunday, April 6 from 1–5PM. Now’s your chance to go behind-the-scenes and explore the secrets of the Orpheum Theatre. You’ll live your Broadway dreams as you walk through the stage door, marvel at yourself in front of classic dressing room mirrors, and even get a photo on our beloved stage, all while learning how our stagehands, designers, and expert crew members make theatre magic at every show. Your Open House experience includes backstage self-guided tours, photo opportunities, and special experiences, such as vocal techniques from a professional singing coach and a Showtunes Singalong. Space is limited and tickets will be available for reservation from March 11 for the general public.

Broadway SF
Sun, Apr 6 • 1:00 PM

The Avett Brothers

Three-time GRAMMY Award nominees The Avett Brothers made mainstream waves with their critically acclaimed 2009 major label debut, 'I and Love and You.' In 2012, 'The Carpenter' hit #4 on the Billboard 200, followed by 'Magpie and the Dandelion' in 2013, which debuted at #5. Their 2016 album, 'True Sadness,' debuted at #1 on multiple Billboard charts. In 2019, they released 'Closer Than Together,' featuring the single 'High Steppin’.' The band's recent album is a collection of songs that revealed themselves over time. They have earned accolades such as induction into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Americana Music Association. Don't miss this opportunity to see them live on April 10, 2025.

Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
Thurs, Apr 10 • 7:00 PM

Bug Day!

Join in the creepy-crawly fun and learn how important these little creatures are to the earth and to our survival here. Kids and their families can make their own fabulous bug-related crafts to take home, see and touch live insects and arachnids, take a scientific look at insects through microscopes, compete in the pollinator relay, and perhaps even EAT a bug or two. Live music provided by the ever fabulous Luke Schwartz Trio. Bug costumes encouraged. You may even win a special prize! The San Francisco Beekeepers Association will have a hive of live honeybees on display, and other community members include California Native Plant Society, Alameda Vector Control, Roly Poly Girl, San Francisco Zoo, Tree Frog Treks, San Francisco Microscopical Society, and Don Bugito Edible Bugs.

Randall Museum
Sat, Apr 12 • 10:00 AM

Eric Wyatt Quintet

Join us for an unforgettable evening with Eric Wyatt, the renowned Brooklyn-born saxophonist whose electrifying performances have captivated audiences worldwide. Leading bands across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, Eric brings a lifetime of rich musical heritage and soulful expression to every note. With albums like Borough of Kings, The Golden Rule 4 Sonny, and Look to the Sky, Eric’s sound blends the essence of jazz’s golden age with modern innovation. Don’t miss your chance to witness a true torchbearer of the saxophone, live on stage, as he channels the spirit of his mentors and collaborators, including Kenny Garrett, Branford Marsalis, and Roy Hargrove. This is jazz at its finest—passionate, timeless, and alive.

Black Cat
Sat, Apr 12 • 7:00 PM

Animation for Everyone: Stop Motion Gifs

Join us for a one-day workshop on Saturday, April 19th, from 10 AM to 2 PM at Clayroom SoMa, located at 375 9th Street, San Francisco. This beginner-friendly class is designed to immerse participants in the creative world of stop motion animation. You will learn about a free stop motion app, basic animation principles, and engage in hands-on experimentation with various materials to create looping animations on your mobile phone. By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to export their animations as GIFs and videos, perfect for sharing with friends and on social media. This workshop is led by Annie Wong, a recognized mixed-media artist with significant experience in the field.

Clayroom SF
Sat, Apr 19 • 10:00 AM

The Comedy of Errors

Shakespeare’s quintessential comedy, this farcical tale of separated families and mistaken identities delights audiences young and old. Antipholus and his servant, Dromio, travel in search of a long-lost family member, only to get mixed up in a madcap race against the clock, love-at-first-double-take, run-ins with local law enforcement, and double trouble—times two. Christina Anderson’s translation maintains all we love about Shakespeare’s language even as it updates the jokes and wordplay, breathing new life into the double (and triple) entendres. This madcap whirl through bawdy adventures, mad scientists, romance, heartfelt reunions, and even a few happy endings will excite and titillate any audience. Additional support for The Comedy of Errors is provided by the Hitz Foundation and Play On Shakespeare. The play is directed by Devin Brain and is presented by The Acting Company.

American Conservatory Theater
Tues, Apr 22 • 7:30 PM

Graham Nash - More Evenings of Songs and Stories

Join Graham Nash for an unforgettable evening filled with songs and stories. This event, intended for ages 21 and older, promises an intimate atmosphere where fans can engage with the legendary musician. In addition to standard admission tickets, two VIP packages are available: the Graham Nash Soundcheck Package, which includes a premium seated ticket and access to a preshow sound check, and the Graham Nash Premium Package, which features a general admission seated ticket and a Graham Nash tour item. Experience the passion and creativity of this musical icon while supporting social and environmental justice through the Guacamole Fund, which raises awareness via musicians' tour charity ticketing.

Bimbo's 365 Club
Wed, Apr 23 • 7:30 PM

Andrew North

"Anyone who wants to learn about Afghanistan, its people and its turbulent history must read War & Peace & War" - Zarghuna Kargar, author of Dear Zari: The Secret Lives of Women in Afghanistan. War & Peace & War begins with Andrew North's account of being abducted by the Taliban in 2022. By then, he had been covering Afghanistan for 20 years and his book brings together his own reporting with the experiences of five Afghans from different walks of life to tell the story of the country's long wars with foreign powers and the return of the Taliban. Andrew North is an award-winning journalist and former BBC Afghanistan correspondent. He now contributes to a wide range of media outlets and also sketches; War & Peace & War is illustrated with his own drawings.

Kepler's Books
Thurs, Apr 24 • 6:00 PM

Common with the San Francisco Symphony

Award-winning artist, actor, author, and activist Common takes the stage at Davies Symphony Hall for an electrifying concert with the San Francisco Symphony. In addition to his illustrious music career, Common continues to break down barriers with a multitude of critically acclaimed, diverse roles in film and TV. Don’t miss this multitalented artist in concert with the San Francisco Symphony—one night only! Strict 8 ticket limit. Purchases or accounts over the limit are subject to cancellation. Tickets will be delivered approximately 1 week before the program: e-Tickets will be available in your account 7 days before the concert. Printed tickets will be delivered via mail.

San Francisco Symphony
Thurs, Apr 24 • 7:30 PM

Mill Valley Music Festival 2025

Join us for an unforgettable night of melodies and rhythms at our annual music extravaganza, set against the backdrop of the city's most iconic venue. This event promises to be a harmonious blend of live performances, featuring a diverse lineup of renowned artists and emerging talents from across the globe. Whether you're a fan of rock, pop, jazz, or classical music, our festival offers something for every music enthusiast. Experience the magic of live music as you explore various stages, each offering a unique auditory journey. Alongside the musical performances, enjoy a curated selection of food and beverage vendors, offering local and international delicacies to complement your experience. Mark your calendars and prepare to be part of a celebration that brings together music lovers from all walks of life.

Noise Pop
Sat, May 10 • 12:00 PM

Pat Thomas / Evergreen Review: Dispatches from the Literary Underground: Covers & Essays 1957-1973

Join us for an engaging discussion with Pat Thomas about his new book, 'Evergreen Review: Dispatches from the Literary Underground: Covers & Essays 1957-1973'. This event celebrates the publication of an awe-inspiring compilation that reflects the radical art, essays, and photography from the groundbreaking magazine of the Beat Generation. The discussion will delve into the contributions of notable figures like Allen Ginsberg and William Burroughs and explores the magazine's historical impact on outsider literature. Don't miss this opportunity to experience a vibrant exploration of a cornerstone of countercultural history, which will include full-color reprints of all issues from 1957 to 1973 and insights from the author himself.

City Lights Bookstore
Tues, May 13 • 7:00 PM

Jemimah Wei

Stegner Fellow Jemimah Wei joins us with her dazzling debut novel that explores the formation and dissolution of family bonds in a story of ambition and sisterhood in turn-of-the-millennium Singapore. Before Arin, Genevieve Yang was an only child, but when Arin appears, the shameful legacy of a grandfather long believed to be dead, everything changes. The sisters navigate the intensity of life, driven by their parents’ high expectations, ultimately forcing Genevieve to weigh ambition against familial love. The Original Daughter is a major literary debut, rich with emotional clarity and social insight. Jemimah Wei, currently a Stegner Fellow at Stanford, has received numerous accolades for her writing and creative contributions.

Kepler's Books
Thurs, May 15 • 7:00 PM

Shelby Van Pelt - Remarkably Bright Creatures

Join us at Book Passage for an author event in celebration of the paperback release of Shelby Van Pelt's highly acclaimed debut novel, Remarkably Bright Creatures! The novel tells a charming, witty and compulsively readable exploration of friendship, reckoning, and hope that traces a widow's unlikely connection with a giant Pacific octopus at the Sowell Bay Aquarium. Tova Sullivan seeks solace in her nightly work amidst memories of her vanished son, leading to a remarkable friendship with Marcellus, an octopus who holds the key to Tova's past. This debut novel is a gentle reminder of the healing power of unexpected connections and the importance of facing one’s past to uncover a brighter future.

Book Passage
Sat, May 17 • 4:00 PM

FoodieLand Food Festival

Join us May 23 – 25 for FoodieLand Food Festival as there is something for everyone at FoodieLand! Get ready to indulge your senses at FoodieLand, the ultimate outdoor food festival inspired by Asia’s iconic night markets. With events spanning California, Washington, Nevada, Arizona, and Texas, FoodieLand is your ticket to a one-of-a-kind experience celebrating community, culture, and cuisine. At FoodieLand, you can experience foods and flavors from a diverse selection of cuisines, shop unique treasured goods from small businesses, challenge friends to games, and watch live on-stage performances! Each event features a revolving collective of vendors, so you won’t experience the same festival twice. Entry is $7 per person, with free admission for children under 5.

Cow Palace
Fri, May 23 • 3:00 PM

FoodieLand Food Festival

Join us May 23 – 25 for FoodieLand Food Festival as there is something for everyone at FoodieLand! Get ready to indulge your senses at FoodieLand, the ultimate outdoor food festival inspired by Asia’s iconic night markets. With events spanning California, Washington, Nevada, Arizona and Texas, FoodieLand is your ticket to a one-of-a-kind experience celebrating community, culture and cuisine. At FoodieLand, there’s something for everyone. Come experience foods and flavors from our diverse selection of cuisines, shop unique treasured goods from small businesses, challenge your friends to games, and watch live on-stage performances! Each of our events boasts a revolving collective of vendors, so you won’t experience the same festival twice. Save the date, grab your crew and come hang with us!

Cow Palace
Sat, May 24 • 1:00 PM

FoodieLand Food Festival

Join us May 23 – 25 for FoodieLand Food Festival as there is something for everyone at FoodieLand! Get ready to indulge your senses at FoodieLand, the ultimate outdoor food festival inspired by Asia’s iconic night markets. With events spanning California, Washington, Nevada, Arizona, and Texas, FoodieLand is your ticket to a one-of-a-kind experience celebrating community, culture, and cuisine. Come experience foods and flavors from our diverse selection of cuisines, shop unique treasured goods from small businesses, challenge your friends to games, and watch live on-stage performances! Each of our events boasts a revolving collective of vendors, so you won’t experience the same festival twice. Save the date, grab your crew and come hang with us! 📌 Location: Cow Palace (2600 Geneva Ave Daly City, CA 94014) 💰 Admission: $7/person. Children under 5 are admitted for FREE.

Cow Palace
Sun, May 25 • 1:00 PM

David Sandberg with Sheryl Sandberg

Join us to hear from internationally renowned pediatric neurosurgeon Dr David Sandberg. His new book, Brain and Heart, is a warm and brilliant memoir that captures the medical and emotional intensity of pediatric neurosurgery. In this moving, unflinching, and inspiring book, Sandberg combines his deep scientific and medical knowledge with raw emotion and unforgettably powerful stories of courage and love. The brain is the most complicated and perplexing of our organs, and it is also the one that makes us human. When it comes to a child's brain, the hearts of those who love them become inextricably linked to that story. Dr. Sandberg describes the joy, heartbreak, uncertainty, and physical and emotional challenges that come with performing brain surgery on children. He understands deeply how every one of his patients is an entire world, and his devotion to his patients and his work shines through on every page. This unforgettable book will strengthen our sense of compassion and hope.

Kepler's Books
Wed, May 28 • 7:00 PM

Co-Founders

Witness the launch of the next great hip-hop musical, born in the heart of the Bay! Co-Founders is the story of an underrated young Oakland coder, Esata, who hacks her way into the most competitive startup accelerator in San Francisco. Determined to save her house as an influx of wealth threatens to push her community out, Esata forms an unlikely partnership with a prep-school dropout. In a field where the privileged make a killing while folks across the bridge grind to survive, can Esata win Silicon Valley’s game without leaving her community behind? Created by three extraordinary Bay Area voices, the piece features a deliciously catchy score that draws from the Bay’s rich hip-hop traditions, as well as soul, gospel, funk, jazz, R&B, and more. Employing visual technology entirely new to theater, Co-Founders is a sharply funny, deeply felt, exuberant celebration of the Bay and the dreamers, hustlers, and innovators that make it magical.

American Conservatory Theater
Thurs, May 29 • 7:30 PM

The October Nights Tour: Calling All Lovers

Get ready for an unforgettable experience as Grammy-nominated artist October London and platinum-selling Grammy-nominated powerhouse Tamar Braxton, two of the most dynamic voices in contemporary R&B, announce their highly anticipated 24-city 'The October Nights: Calling All Lovers' Tour. Joining the powerhouse duo is Ro James, a Grammy-nominated and platinum-selling artist known for his smooth, sultry sound. With their unmatched vocal talents and undeniable stage presence, these artists promise a night filled with sultry melodies, emotive storytelling, and high-energy performances that will leave fans breathless. This tour celebrates what it means to love, live, and groove—an experience no R&B fan will want to miss.

Paramount Theatre
Sat, May 31 • 8:00 PM

Do You Feel Anger?

Marin Theatre closes its 24-25 season with the Bay Area premiere of a hilarious workplace play that the New York Times called 'Flat-out hilarious. Ingenious and inspired.' An outrageous comedy that highlights the absurdity and danger of a world where some people's feelings are prioritized over others. Sofia is hired as an empathy coach at a debt collection agency, where she finds her work cut out for her. The employees can barely identify what an emotion is, much less practice deep, radical compassion for others. As they stumble towards enlightenment, hidden tensions of this carefree workplace bubble to the surface, leading to uproarious and eye-opening revelations. The New Yorker lauded it as 'Disquieting as it is funny. A rare throwback to classic absurdism.' Please be advised this production contains adult language.

Marin Theatre Company
Thurs, Jun 5 • 7:30 PM