September

• Chinatown Autumn Moon Festival: Celebrate the harvest season with traditional mooncakes, bazaars, and lively entertainment.
• Folsom Street Fair: Experience one of the world’s largest leather-themed street fairs, held annually in late September.
• Sausalito Art Festival: Enjoy this prestigious art event featuring stunning works and live music, located just across the Golden Gate Bridge.
• Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival: Indulge your sweet tooth with a celebration of all things chocolate at the iconic Ghirardelli Square.
• Oktoberfest by the Bay: Raise a stein at this German festival offering authentic food, beer, and music.
• San Francisco Symphony and Opera Opening Nights: Mark your calendars for these significant cultural events that kick off the city’s performance season.

October

• San Francisco Fleet Week: Honor the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps with impressive ship tours, an air show featuring the Blue Angels, and other events.
• Hardly Strictly Bluegrass: Don’t miss this massive, free music festival featuring a diverse lineup of bluegrass and Americana artists.
• Castro Street Fair: Join the vibrant community celebration with food, music, and vendors in the historic Castro neighborhood.
• Italian Heritage Parade: Celebrate Italian culture with this festive parade, which often takes place during Fleet Week.
• Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival: Just a short drive away, this famous festival features giant pumpkins, art, and plenty of festive food.