Stern Grove Festival Guide
What is the Stern Grove Music Festival?
I’ve been going to the Stern Grove Music Festival for a few years, and it’s hands down my favorite free music festival in the city. It’s hosted in a gorgeous, tree-filled meadow surrounded by tall eucalyptus and redwoods. Fun fact: Stern Grove Festival is a non-profit organization that’s been bringing free live music to the public since 1938. It’s also incredibly family-friendly- I’ve never seen so many kids and babies at a music festival!
Seating at the grass area at the Stern Grove Festival
While the festival is free, donations are encouraged, and all proceeds go towards keeping the music going for years to come. Due to growing popularity, they've recently updated their ticketing system to better manage the demand. And there’s a lot of demand for fun free events in the city!
Who is Playing in the 2025 Lineup?
June 15: The California Honeydrops + The Dip
June 22: Channel Tres + ASTU
June 29: Sleater-Kinney + Destroy Boys
July 6: San Francisco Symphony with special guest Taimane
July 13: Phantogram + Ha Vay
July 20: Girl Talk + Chromeo
July 27: Orville Peck + Jaime Wyatt
August 3: Michael Franti & Spearhead + Black London
August 10: The Pointer Sisters + Lyrics Born
August 16: Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley & Stephen Marley (Big Picnic Weekend Day 1)
August 17: Diana Ross (Big Picnic Weekend Day 2)
How do I Get Tickets?
Lottery System – Enter to win free tickets starting 6 weeks before each show at sterngrove.org.
Community Box Offices – Snag tickets in person at select SF locations the day before each concert—at least 1,000 will be available before each concert.
Volunteer – Help out at a show and earn a ticket to a future one.
Partner Giveaways – Keep an eye on giveaways from partners like DoTheBay, KALW, Amoeba, SF Standard, KEXP, REI, and more.
Reserve a Table – Choose a seat at a shared picnic table or go VIP with a private table for up to 10 people.
Seating at the picnic tables at the Stern Grove Festival
When Should I Get There?
Gates open at 12pm at 19th & Sloat and 23rd & Wawona, but the line usually starts forming by 10am—come early to claim a good picnic spot! DJs start at 1pm, and the Main performances run from 2pm to around 4:30–5pm. Pro Tip: Use rideshare or public transit—parking is limited unless you’ve reserved a picnic table. There’s also a free bike valet!
Can I Bring My Own Drinks?
Yes! You can bring your own alcohol (21+), and there’s a bar and food trucks if you’d rather buy on-site. Be sure to pack in, pack out—leave no trace! And bring a reusable water bottle to use at the refill stations to cut down on disposable cups.
Final Tips?
Keep an eye on your favorite artists, enter the ticket lottery 6 weeks ahead of time, and if you miss out, swing by a community box office the day before the show. The 2025 lineup is looking amazing—hope to see you out there!
