November 05 2008
At the Golden Gate Park, the weekend weather is still suitable enough to take in fresh air and get a bit closer to the earth and environment. This Saturday, explore two opportunities that allow you to absorb the beauty of glistening local waters and breathtaking woodlands.
From 10am to 12:30pm, you can contribute to Golden Gate Park Oak Woodland Restoration Project Work Day, held every second Saturday of each month. Simply meet up with others in front of the Conservatory of Flowers to make a difference. For more information, contact Robert Bakewell (rcbakewell [at] yahoo.com, 415-221-1137 or 415-710-9617).
Hopefully, you'll learn to catch more than just your reflection the next time you go fishing after paying a visit to the GGACC Angler's Ponds at Golden Gate Park (9:30am to 12 pm). Here is your chance to take advantage of free casting lessons – offered no matter what the weather conditions are. When you arrive, you will be assigned to a group based upon your previous experience: Beginning to Intermediate, or Intermediate to Advanced. Don't forget to bring along protective eyewear! To learn more about this event, call 650-348-1216. Added by: TreeHugger
Hook the leash up your favorite furried friend, slip the sparkly collar on, and if you’re looking for a special someone to call your own, make your way to Golden Gate Park for Pet Pride Day on Sunday, October 26th, 2008. Registration for this Animal Care and Control agency event is from 11am to 12pm, which is when the pet costume pre-judging will also take place.
Throughout the afternoon, Sharon Meadow will serve as a watering hole for the owners of pampered felines and man’s best friend. To ensure the safety of your companions, free microchipping is offered at this family-friendly event for licensed cats and dogs located within the city. This is also a chance to see what the ACC is all about and to become aware of their many services.
Some of the events held for Pet Pride Day (from 12pm to 3pm) include:
• Parade of Pets (12:00-12:25 pm)
• Pet Camp Pet Trick Contest (1:00-1:20 pm)
• Disc Dogs of Golden Gate (1:50-2:10 pm)
• Pet Camp Halloween Contest (2:15-2:35 pm)
• Carnival Games (2:40-2:55 pm)
Looking for more information? Contact Deb Campbell at deb.campbell [at] sfgov.org
Calling all skaters! This weekend, pay a visit to Golden Gate Park’s Metson Lake (located close to Polo Field on Middle Drive West), to enjoy high-flying tricks and non-stop shredding action. On October 12th, 2008, from 10am to 2pm, the park plays host to an event open to all skaters – no matter their specialties – freestyle, slalom, old school flavor, or new school flair.
Joining a host of other Sk8Kings Freestyle Team members, the “Brown Bomber” himself, Richy Carrasco will show off his skills. This is your chance to set eyes on a live performance by the Guinness Book World Record holder for consecutive 360-degree spins on a skateboard.
Food and refreshments will be provided at this event. The All-Skate Jam will also include product tosses and exciting giveaways. You are additionally encouraged to bring your own board to receive a free raffle ticket. After the festivities, remember to head on down to the Purple Skunk Board Shop (5820 Geary Blvd – 3pm to 5pm) for in-store discounts and raffle results.
To avoid getting lost when making your way to this adrenaline-infused occasion, don’t forget to enter from Lincoln on 25th or 41st avenues to reach the front of Metson Lake. Best of all – this is another thrillingly free event at Golden Gate Park. For more details, check out http://www.purpleskunk.com/category_s/269.htm.
October 08 2008
This Saturday and Sunday at de Young's Wilsey Court and Koret Auditorium (between 10am and 3pm), the beauty and intrigue of the Maori people will come to life with a celebration of their culture and exquisite arts. An assortment of activities are slated to engage guests of the museum, including Maori tattooing (better known as Ta Moko), demonstrations in weaving, interactive art activities, and tours of the Oceanic Art Gallery led by Maori artists.
At the Contemporary Maori Market, handmade goods created by Maori artists are on display in the Piazzoni Murals Room. Also, if you plan your visit for Sunday, a fashion show highlighting the contemporary Moari cloaks will serve as part of the festivities.
This program is free to enjoy, but if you wish to tour the rest of the gallery, keep in mind that paying the regular museum admission is required. So, mark your calendars for October 11th and October 12th, 2008 to enjoy this cultural event soon taking place at the de Young Museum at Golden Gate Park. Added by: TreeHugger
October 01 2008
Golden Gate Park is certainly the place to be this weekend, as an assortment of musical acts come to town for the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, held Friday, October 3rd to Sunday, October 5th. Rain or shine – various stages will accommodate the likes of Robert Plant, Bonnie Prince, Asleep at the Wheel, and MC Hammer. Additionally, this is a free event – so no worrying about scrambling to get a ticket in order to enjoy the festivities.
Stretched across the Speedway, Marx, and Lindley meadows, people from near and far come to take in the sights and treat their ears to something special. Throughout the park, vendors will set up shop selling food and non-alcoholic drinks, making sure you don’t wilt from dehydration or starvation. In order to maximize the experience, you are allowed to bring blankets, short-back chairs, and coolers.
If you've enjoyed the festival in the past, then you may have taken a shuttle to reach the park; however this particular service is not offered this year. Since many streets will be closed – planning a carpool, dusting off the roller skates, or getting familiar with the bus schedule is suggested.
A sample of acts invading Golden Gate Park this weekend, includes:
Friday: (10:30am – noon; 2:30pm – 6:45pm) – Robert Plant and Alison Krauss (featuring T Bone Burnett) at 5:15pm on the Banjo Stage.
Saturday: (10:45am – 7:15pm) – Carlene Carter (11:15am) on the Rooster Stage, 12:00pm Los Cenzontles featuring Santiago Jimenez (12:00pm) on the Arrow Stage; Odetta (4:40pm) and Steve Earle & The Bluegrass Dukes (6:00pm) on the Banjo Stage
Sunday: (11am – 7pm) – The Opera Dukes (3:20pm) on the Porch Stage and Loudon Wainwright III (4:40pm) on the Rooster Stage.
September 24 2008
This weekend, come to Golden Gate Park for the long awaited, highly anticipated reopening of the new and improved California Academy of Sciences. Here you will find an event that showcases knowledgeable conservationists, the talents of highflying Chinese acrobats, dance performers, eco-friendly experts, and incredible live music. Saturday provides a free ticket into one of the most innovative museums in the world – an outing for the entire family to enjoy.
This joyous event begins at 8:30am with an opening ceremony that highlights the architect, executive director, mayor, and other public officials responsible for making this dream come true. Some of the exciting festivities and features to look forward to include:
• A band that uses "found" objects (bottles, birdcages, saws, etc) to make sweet music.
• Tasty sustainable food samples from all over the world.
• Enlightening and fun kid-friendly activities – like face painting.
• Ben & Jerry's sweet frozen treats.
• Continuous entertainment situated in the Music Concourse, such as the Nigerian Masquerade Drummers, Cotton Candy Express, and Circus Center.
Once you step inside the Academy, it's time to rediscover all of the natural treasures awaiting your curiosity, including a rainforest measuring four stories, breathtaking Philippine coral reef, and close to 38,000 live animals, including penguins, butterflies, and the rare white alligator. Have you ever caught sight of living roof? Here is your chance! Don't miss out on the official re-opening of the California Academy of Sciences on Saturday until 9pm. Keep in mind that a Sunday visit this weekend (9am to 5pm) requires an admission fee. For more details, visit http://www.calacademy.org/. Added by: TreeHugger
September 18 2008
On Sunday, September 21st, 2008, jazz enthusiasts and locals looking for a good time will gather just outside of the de Young Cafe Terrace in Golden Gate Park to enjoy an afternoon filled with music. Intersection for the Arts and the de Young has collaborated for a third consecutive year to provide eight reasons to spend Sunday afternoons at the museum. Perfect for a family-friendly outing, a lineup of talented Bay Area jazz musicians will take their turn filling the Golden Gate Park air with the sweet sounds of sizzling saxophones, Afro-beats, and folk music percussion.
This week, Lovely Builders takes the stage with Ross Hammond on guitar and Scott Amendola manning the drums and electronics. This new ensemble delivers a sound that combines the rhythm and reverberation of combined jazz, rock, and electronics.
Keep in mind – this event takes place rain or shine…and if the weather doesn’t wish to cooperate this weekend, the entertainment will relocate inside the de Young at Wilsey Court. Added by: TreeHugger
September 11 2008
On September 14th, 2008, Golden Gate Park will host the rumble and thunder of majestic beasts – all for a good cause – at the 24th annual Polo in the Park charity event. With gates unlocking at 10:30am and opening ceremonies taking off at 11am, this event offers a fun-filled day (complete with Jack Russell Terrier races and live flamenco performances) that lasts until 4pm. But, that's not all…
Polo in the Park promises a live auction, the sounds of Diego's Umbrella Band, wine tasting, the flair of a classic car show, and an entertaining Segway Polo Tournament – amongst other curiosities and unforgettable activities. Your ultimate participation will also benefit the non-profit James S. Brady Therapeutic Riding Program, which helps children with autism and other special needs.
Tickets for this event cost $100 (Adults), $50 (Children – ages 13 to 18), and $700 for a table of eight. Children under the age of 12 are free. With the purchase of a ticket, you are entitled to special seating, VIP access to all events, and access to Luncheon on the Lawn. In regards to finding a place for your vehicle on the day of the event, remember that the early bird catches the worm. On the south side of the field, guests are welcome to battle it out for limited parking on a first-come, first-serve basis. Added by: TreeHugger
September 03 2008
This weekend marks the 10th anniversary of the Power to the Peaceful Festival and Golden Gate Park is pleased to host this free event on September 6th, from 11am to 5pm. Bringing people together and creating awareness through the beauty of creative expression and sound, Power to the Peaceful is a not-for-profit organization devoted to promoting "cultural co-existence, non-violence and environmental sustainability through the arts and music."
This year, you will have the pleasure of jamming to the likes of:
Accompanying the enlightening musical lineup, the Power to the Peaceful Festival promises an array of unforgettable international foods and healthy products. If you're interested in fully experiencing the festival and receiving rock star treatment, consider springing for the VIP individual ticket ($250), which entitles you to backstage privileges; access to a stage viewing platform; light catering; a PTTP gift pack (with PTTP 08 poster, T-shirt and PTTP DVD); and more.
Beyond the musical aspect of the festival, Power to the Peaceful is offering many other features. For more information on the Yoga Jam, Film Festival, Food Drive, and After Party – pay a visit to http://www.powertothepeaceful.org/
Michael Franti of Spearhead Skates in Golden Gate Park
(A man of many talents)
How does a free Labor Day weekend extravaganza sound? Head for Golden Gate Park this Sunday and you will not only find one, but two music-filled events to help you celebrate a work-free Monday.
At Elk Glen Cove (Meadow), located near 25th Avenue, Doin’ It in the Park ‘08 kicks off the festivities on August 31st, 2008 at 12pm and continues until sunset. All ages are encouraged to come and enjoy endless tunes and DJ-inspired music throughout this family-friendly afternoon. Thanks to Triple Threat, Norm Ferreal, Papalote and Local 1200, Doin’ It in the Park ‘08 promises to have you dancing all day long with the sounds of hip hop, soul, and reggae. Other fun stuff to look forward to includes a free BBQ, arcade games, and much more. For more information, contact normferreal(at)gmail.com.
Another free event in Golden Gate Park taking place on the same day is Bang The Drum – at Peacock Meadows at JFK Drive – from 1pm to 5pm. Join the infamous Bay Area hip hop DJ, Kevvy Kev, as he celebrates 24 years on the air, making him part of the longest continuously running hip hop radio show in the world. To mark the occasion, there will be 24 DJs and 24 MCs. Want to know more? Contact get(at)kevvykev.com.
August 20 2008
No more waiting – the Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival at Golden Gate Park is finally here…starting Friday, August 22nd until August 24th. With tickets in hand, head for the Polo Field, as well as Speedway and Lindley Meadows to embrace the sounds of artists, such as Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Beck, and Ben Harper. Beyond the extraordinary musical talent gathering in one spot, there will also be plenty of other attractions to consider during this unforgettable weekend extravaganza.
The Outside Lands Music Festival promises to awaken your senses, as the very presentation of musicians is a colorful, eye-opening experience. Performers will deliver musical memories to last a lifetime upon stages decorated by one of six spectacular visual artists, including Thomas Campbell and Monica Canilao. There's truly something for everyone, as the Market Place offers some of the best shopping of the region. While there's never a shortage of official festival and artist merchandise to go around, don't count out the assortment of craftsmen, artisans, and vendors setting up shop for the weekend.
And, what better setting for a day of wine tasting than to explore the regional blends found at Winehaven, an artisan winery tent drenched in local history – with the melodies of whatever music piques your interest– from Lupe Fiasco to Steve Winwood. The festival is also the perfect opportunity to witness history in the making, as no artist has ever played in Golden Gate Park at night. Radiohead will rewrite the books and you can be there to catch all of the action. A complete list of artists is found below.
RADIOHEAD
BECK
MANU CHAO
THE BLACK KEYS
COLD WAR KIDS
STEEL PULSE
LYRICS BORN
BLACK MOUNTAIN
BENEVENTO/RUSSO DUO
THE FELICE BROTHERS
HOWLIN RAIN
THE DYNAMITES FEATURING CHARLES WALKER
CARNEY
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 @ 1PM
TOM PETTY & THE HEARTBREAKERS
BEN HARPER & THE INNOCENT CRIMINALS
PRIMUS
CAKE
STEVE WINWOOD
CAFÉ TACVBA
LUPE FIASCO
REGINA SPEKTOR
GALACTIC’S CRESCENT CITY SOUL KREWE
M. WARD
DEVENDRA BANHART
MATT NATHANSON
TWO GALLANTS
DREDG
ABIGAIL WASHBURN & THE SPARROW
QUARTET FEATURING BÉLA FLECK
THE WALKMEN
KAKI KING
THE COUP
LIARS
DONAVON FRANKENREITER
NELLIE MCKAY
GOAPELE
SEAN HAYES
RUPA & THE APRIL FISHES
THRIVING IVORY
EVEREST
SUNDAY, AUGUST 24 @ 1PM
JACK JOHNSON
WILCO
WIDESPREAD PANIC
RODRIGO Y GABRIELA
BROKEN SOCIAL SCENE
ANDREW BIRD
SHARON JONES & THE DAP-KINGS
DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS
TOOTS & THE MAYTALS
STARS
ROGUE WAVE
ALO
JACKIE GREENE
LOS AMIGOS INVISIBLES
MIKE GORDON
THE COOL KIDS
GRACE POTTER & THE NOCTURNALS
LITTLE BROTHER
BON IVER
VIENNA TENG
THE MOTHER HIPS
THE MIGHTY UNDERDOGS FEATURING GIFT OF GAB, LATEEF AND HEADNODIC
NICOLE ATKINS & THE SEA
SILA & THE AFROFUNK EXPERIENCE
K’NAAN
CULVER CITY DUB COLLECTIVE Added by: TreeHugger
August 11 2008
Breathe life into this weekend with a trip to the Dahlia Society of California Flower Show – a treasured event that presents a bloom known to take on many different shapes and colors. Don't worry – you don’t have to cultivate your own specimens or run a flower shop to enjoy this get-together, as it is open to the public on Saturday, August 16th (10am - 5pm) and Sunday, August 17th (10 am - 4pm).
While some people come to simply take in the sights, others tote cameras by their side – seeking the perfect shot. Whatever your pleasure – head for the Golden Gate Park's Hall of Flowers (San Francisco County Fair Building - 9th Avenue and Lincoln Way) to become a part of the magic.
Native to Mexico, Central America, and Columbia – the dahlia was named after Anders Dahl – a Swedish botanist of the 18th century. Depending on the species, the flower showcases shades of white, maroon, red, pink, and yellow with fascinating color combinations and petal arrangements. For example, San Francisco has seen the bloom take on various forms of nature, such as the Juul's All-Star (resembling an orchid), the Alpen Pearl (visually similar to an anemone), and Waterlily Dahlias.
At Golden Gate Park, keep in mind that the show isn’t the only place to capture the intriguing shapes and colors of this particular flower. Make your way to the Dahlia Dell at the Conservatory, where the best time to enjoy blooming dahlias is from July through September. Added by: TreeHugger
August 06 2008
Head for the Hall of Flowers at Golden Gate Park (9th Ave and Lincoln St) to participate in the 19th year of Orchid Mania – an event dubbed the "World's Largest Orchid Garage Sale." Keep in mind that you have not one, but two days to capture the white, purple, pink, and red shades of thousands of gorgeous orchids – being held Saturday, August 9th and Sunday, August 10th, from 10am to 4pm.
It is suggested that you bring your own box or container so that you may carry home any specimens that have caught your eye. An assortment of rare or distinctive species are sure to please local orchid collectors looking for a prize possession to call their own. Some visitors simply browse about in order to choose an attractive blooming plant to liven up their household.
There is no admission fee to worry about, as this is just another fascinatingly free event that takes place at the park. Sale proceeds for this affair are donated to grassroots AIDS organizations located in California and Thailand, so take the time to lend a hand to this non-profit event headed solely by volunteers. The orchids originate from commercial and individual sponsors positioned all over the world. For more details, check out http://www.orchids.org/. Added by: TreeHugger
July 23 2008
Slip into your jogging pants and a long-sleeved pullover to fight the possible San Francisco chill and wind that may greet you as you spend the day at Peacock Meadow in Golden Gate Park on Sunday, July 27th, 2008. Between 11am and 5pm, bring a large towel or yoga mat to Yogapalooza – a wellness extravaganza that aims to treat you to a day centered on healthy living, as well as creating stronger bodies and minds.
Each hour, a different kind of yoga is featured – benefiting a highlighted non-profit organization with 100% of the proceeds. For example, the Power Yoga class (at 1pm) with instructor Shy Sayar benefits the Women's Cancer Resource Center and will deliver a challenging all-level class that concentrates on body strengthening and gaining a focused mind. Other classes include Breath &Yoga (12pm); Yoga for Parents & Kids (2pm); Yoga for Better Blood Flow (3pm); and Flow Yoga (4pm)
This healthy event also offers free snacks and refreshments, fun giveaways, and a silent auction showcasing items – like a See Jane Run Membership; two $50 gift certificates to Sports Basement; and a Lululemon Athletica Yoga Starter Kit. So, before heading out for J.F. Kennedy Drive (between Conservatory East & the Conservatory) to enjoy this Golden Gate Park outing – don’t forget to RSVP at http://www.yogapalooza08.org, where additional details are also found.
Fee: One Class ($10 advanced; $15 at the door); Full Day ($30 advanced, $50 at the door) Added by: TreeHugger
July 16 2008
Independent and underground publishing will explode into a wave of more than 60 small press exhibitors and an assortment of stimulating workshops and panels at the San Francisco Zine Fest 2008. The San Francisco County Fair Building in Golden Gate Park will host this annual two-day event – a growing tradition returning for its seventh year and for the first time at this particular location.
The Zine Fest is free and open to all, where you can explore, browse, and fall in love with the artwork, talent, imagination, and creativity of small press creations, zines, comics, and many other do-it-yourself treats. This is a time to trade, sell, and share colorful superheroes and clever commentary with an estimated headcount to exceed 1,000 attendees.
Come and support the world of small-press ventures that will include more than just Bay Area and West Coast cartoonists, crafters, writers, illustrators, and printmakers. A couple of exhibitors to look forward to includes Manic D Press, Tugboat Press, and Sparkplug Comics. Times: Saturday (11am – 8pm) and Sunday (11am – 7pm). Added by: TreeHugger
July 09 2008
Enter the mind of Timothy Horn – an Australian artist taking Golden Gate Park by storm with his large-scale works that combine interesting materials to craft beauty and awe-inspiring creations. With a knack for using silicone rubber, fiber optics, Easter egg foil, nickel-plated bronze, and sugar – Horn produces an assortment of pretty fascinating art that includes jellyfish 'chandeliers' inspired by the 19th century illustrations of German zoologist, Ernst Haeckel.
Horn is known for producing pieces that deliver glamorous displays of jeweled art that conjure thoughts of Candyland. A sample of Horn's talent is found here, but you can catch the up, close and personal creativity at de Young Museum (50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive) this weekend from 9:30am to 5:15pm with "Timothy Horn: Bitter Sweet." Have you ever seen a chandelier made out of sugar?
What's even more noteworthy is that this particular installation pays tribute to the "Great Grandmother of San Francisco," Alma Spreckels – wife of millionaire sugar baron, Adolph Spreckels. Keep in mind that this exhibit continues on throughout July until October 12th – Tuesday to Thursday (9:30am to 5:15pm) and on Fridays (9:30am–8:45pm). Added by: TreeHugger
What are you doing this 4th of July? Why not start off the morning with a little running in the park? To enjoy some of the best views of Golden Gate Park, come stretch your legs at the Freedom Road 5K and Jefferson Mile – two certified courses that will certainly get the heart pumping and deliver a much-needed breath of fresh air.
Exploring the scenic Freedom Road 5K sends you on a relatively flat journey with a couple of uncomplicated hills to conquer with no repeats. When tackling the Jefferson Mile course – the pace is rather fast due to the flat terrain with a few minor hills about Stow Lake.
The Jefferson Mile begins at 8:30am at the Bowling Green, while the 5K starts at 9am on JFK (near the Conservatory of Flowers). To register, come around 7:30am on JFK Drive at Middle Drive. Good news – there will be drawings and prizes for winners, as well as for top pledge collectors. For more details, click here.
Remember the good ‘ol days when classic childhood games burst into full force during lazy summer afternoons? This weekend, test your agility and relive the adrenaline rush that comes with an energetic romp about Golden Gate Park. Head for Lindley Meadow on Saturday, June 28th to participate in a large-scale Capture the Flag game that features alcoholic rewards in each “jail.”
Keep in mind that the festivities and endless music starts at 1pm and after the main event, you are invited to stay and enjoy a delicious BBQ meal. The cost of this event is $5 to play and if you wish to partake in libations – that’s additional $5. To sign up to participate, email wahlinga@gmail.com or visit http://www.missioncountryclub.com/ for more information. And don’t worry – you can also show up and still get a chance to capture that flag…
June 18 2008
Take control of your future! With informative workshops and hands-on demonstrations, join your fellow San Francisco residents, nonprofits, businesses, and municipal agencies in exploring and sharing the benefits of Sustainability, Health, Local Food and Green Economy, Spirit, and Youth Engagement. This weekend, learn how you can contribute to building a beautiful community.
The Golden Gate Park welcomes this unique event centering on the concept of a 100% noncommercial get-together that promotes the complete absence of waste with the help of agencies, such as Literacy for Environmental Justice; SF Bike Coalition; and Green Music Network. Overall, this can't miss extravaganza provides an outing full of knowledge, music, and food.
Who would have thought that educating yourself for a better tomorrow could be such fun?
If you're looking for more details on this event, a complete list of participants and workshops (such as Solar Wind Opportunities in California and Green Bloc Activism) can be found at www.beautifulcommunities.org. You may also directly contact the Event Manager (Amy Benziger) at info@beautifulcommunities.org or 415-722-6200 (cell).
When: June 21st & 22nd; 9am -7pm
Where: Sharon Meadow, Golden Gate Park (right next to the Children's Playground and Carousel) Added by: TreeHugger
June 13 2008
A couple of days ago, residents living in the Golden Gate Park neighborhood got a surprise late at night when loud music and unexplainable "green balls shooting into the air" interrupted their sleep. If you were close enough, a quick glance out of your window produced what looked like fireworks in the park, but to the community's dismay at 12 in the morning – not everyone was too sure. For some, the sounds of U2 and Journey filling the air were a clear indication that at least someone was having a good time.
As locals scrambled to the computer and gathered on chat lines, some residents showed obvious relief when they learned that the flashes of light were indeed fireworks in the park. But, who was behind this? There were no activities slated for Golden Gate Park at this hour? The city rarely allows after-hours gatherings in the park … and certainly doesn’t give the 'OK' for events to take place in the middle of the week after 9pm. To boot, no one was properly notified of the upcoming festivities – hence the panic.
The culprit: Googlerequested a city exemption in early May to permit 1,400 members of their sales team to hold a celebration in the park on June 11th. The 'King of Search Engines' planned on setting up a 'picnic-style dinner with soft drinks and alcohol' alongside live band music. Sounded innocent at first, but sure caused a ruckus in the neighborhood.
In the end, it seems like a party other than Google benefited from this event, as approval for this get-together meant that Google posted a $1 million insurance bond in addition to $20,860.48 in fees to San Francisco. What I'd like to know is…were you affected by this event in any way and how do you feel about Google's royal exception to the rule? Added by: TreeHugger
