July in San Francisco brings free outdoor concerts, two large street festivals, Fourth of July fireworks, and the start of peak summer fog along the western neighborhoods. Here is what is happening around the city this month.
Fourth of July Fireworks
This year’s Independence Day fireworks launch directly from the towers of the Golden Gate Bridge at about 9:30pm on Saturday, July 4, marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The bridge closes to all traffic from 9 to 10pm. Recommended viewing spots include Crissy Field, Marina Green, and Pier 39 and the northern Embarcadero. The Crissy Field and Marina Green parking lots are closed for the day, so arrive on foot, by bike, or by transit. Full closure details are in our Golden Gate Bridge fireworks guide.
Fillmore Jazz Festival
The Fillmore Jazz Festival takes over 12 blocks of Fillmore Street between Eddy and Jackson on Saturday and Sunday, July 4 and 5, from 10am to 6pm. The free festival has multiple stages of live jazz, plus food and craft vendors.
Stern Grove Festival
The free Stern Grove Festival continues its Sunday concert season at Sigmund Stern Grove in the Sunset District. July shows include Major Lazer on July 5, the San Francisco Symphony with Bela Fleck on July 12, Charley Crockett on July 19, and Suki Waterhouse on July 26. Gates open at noon and music starts at 2pm. Admission is free with a lottery or Community Box Office ticket. See our Stern Grove Festival guide for how tickets work.
Free Museum Days
Several museums offer free admission in July, including the de Young, Legion of Honor, and Conservatory of Flowers on the first Tuesday, July 7, and the Asian Art Museum on the first Sunday, July 5. The Legion of Honor and de Young are also free every Saturday for Bay Area residents with valid ID.
Museum Exhibitions
Several large exhibitions run through the summer. Graciela Iturbide: Between Two Worlds opens at SFMOMA on July 11 with more than 150 black-and-white photographs, on view through November 29. At the Legion of Honor, The Etruscans: From the Heart of Ancient Italy gathers more than 150 ancient objects and runs through September 20. At the Asian Art Museum, Chiharu Shiota: Two Home Countries, the artist’s first Bay Area solo museum show, closes July 27.
Baseball at Oracle Park
The San Francisco Giants play home games at Oracle Park during parts of July. Check the team schedule for dates and opponents.
Weather and What to Pack
July is peak fog season in San Francisco. Mornings are often gray and cool, especially in the Sunset, the Richmond, and along the coast, and most days clear by midday. The Mission, Potrero Hill, and Dogpatch tend to stay sunnier and warmer. Bring a layer even on warm afternoons.
