looking for free live music in San Francisco? According to Secretsanfrancisco.com, The Golden Gate Park Bandshell is hosting an incredible lineup of concerts this spring, bringing together local talent and diverse genres for music lovers of all ages.
Free Concerts at the Golden Gate Park Bandshell
Since its revitalization during the pandemic, the historic Bandshell has become a vibrant music hub, offering over 100 free concerts each year thanks to Illuminate Live and SF Rec & Parks. The 120-year-old venue now features upgraded lighting, a cutting-edge sound system, and an expanded stage, ensuring a top-tier experience for performers and audiences alike.
This year’s lineup includes a mix of musical styles, from jazz and funk to reggae, indie, and electronic. Whether you want to unwind after work, enjoy a family-friendly weekend show, or discover new local artists, there’s something for everyone.
2025 Weekly Concert Themes
Concerts follow a general schedule, with additional special events sprinkled throughout the season:
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Wednesdays (4–7 PM): Singer-Songwriter Nights
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Fridays (4:30–7:30 PM): Happy Hour Performances
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Sundays & Select Saturdays (4:20–7:30 PM): Reggae Nights
Check out the upcoming schedule for April 2025 and mark your calendar for an unforgettable live music experience!
April 2025 Bandshell Concert Schedule
Wednesday, April 2 – Market to Bandshell Series (4–7 PM)
🎵 Taco Mosh
🎵 Fringe
🎵 For Earth Below
Friday, April 4 – Friday Happy Hour (4:30–7:30 PM)
🎵 David Rocha Quintet (Two Sets)
Saturday, April 5 – Tribute to the Past (12–4 PM)
🎵 Radio Radio (12:30 PM)
🎵 Burning Down the House (2:30 PM)
Sunday, April 6 – Crucial Reggae Sundays (4:30–7:30 PM)
🎵 Irie Dole, DJ Guidance, and special guests Ted Shred & Oh Snap!
Wednesday, April 9 – Singer-Songwriter Wednesday (4–7 PM)
🎵 Emily Zisman
🎵 Donovan Plant
🎵 Michael Vincent and U No Who
Sunday, April 13 – Daytime Punk Rock at the Shell (12–4 PM)
🎵 Hyperdrive Kittens
🎵 Alvie and The Breakfast Pigs
🎵 Gloomy June
Sunday, April 13 – Evening Reggae Night (4:30–7:30 PM)
🎵 Irie Dole, DJ Guidance, and DJ Mr. E
Friday, April 18 – Golden Gate Park Big Band (4:30–7:30 PM)
🎵 Welcome Back Performance & Fundraiser
Saturday, April 19 – Bicycle Day Celebration (12–4 PM)
🎵 Special Guests: The Live Oaks (12:30 PM)
🎵 Whiskerman (2:30 PM)
Sunday, April 20 – Special Reggae Night (4:30–7:30 PM)
🎵 Irie Dole, DJ Guidance & Special Guest Prezident Brown
Wednesday, April 23 – Singer-Songwriter Wednesday (4–7 PM)
🎵 Michael Annotti
🎵 Jesse Strickman
🎵 Keepers of Humanity
Sunday, April 27 – Reggae Sundays (4:30–7:30 PM)
🎵 Irie Dole, DJ Guidance & Special Guest DJ Rolo
Wednesday, April 30 – Singer-Songwriter Wednesday (4–7 PM)
🎵 Bully Meow
🎵 Karaj Lost Coast
🎵 Purple Albatross
Experience Live Music in the Heart of San Francisco
The free concert series at the Golden Gate Park Bandshell has been a beloved tradition since its launch in 2020 to celebrate the park’s 150th anniversary. The event is entirely funded by private donations, allowing music lovers from across the city to enjoy high-quality performances at no cost.
SF Rec & Parks General Manager Phil Ginsburg highlights the event’s impact:
"These concerts make Golden Gate Park even more vibrant and accessible, offering free live music that brings together people from all neighborhoods and beyond. Whether you’re attending a large festival like Outside Lands or enjoying an intimate set at the Bandshell, music remains a vital part of the park’s legacy."
📍 Location: Golden Gate Park Music Concourse, 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco
Source: Secretsanfrancisco.com