San Francisco

Nightlife

San Francisco is internationally renowned as a LGBTQ+ mecca, with the Castro District serving as the heart of the gay community. The city has been at the forefront of LGBTQ+ rights and culture for decades, from Harvey Milk's activism to the AIDS crisis response. The Castro features iconic venues like Twin Peaks Tavern, The Mix, and Castro Theatre. San Francisco Pride is one of the largest Pride celebrations globally, and the city's progressive politics and diverse queer community make it a beacon for LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide.

FrontRoom

GRUV with Xolo

A party called GRUV with Xolo hosted at El Rio's Front Room.

A monthly event with art, food, performances, and street activations on Folsom Street to foster community connection.

Folsom Street

“SOMA Nights” Neighborhood Block Party + Night Market (SF)

Karaokiki: Just Duet hosted by Frisco and Josie

Karaokiki: Just Duet

A karaoke party featuring duets hosted by Frisco and Josie.

Happy Hour Featuring the Ladies of Freestyle

A happy hour event celebrating female artists of Freestyle music.

Live in San Francisco at El Rio, featuring Taraneh Unobssession Tour Winter 2026. Event details include date, time, and age restriction.

El Rio

Taraneh Unobssession Tour Winter 2026

Mango! A Day Party for Women & Their Friends

Patio

A daytime party for women and their friends at a patio hosted by El Rio.

A special tribute event featuring drag artists performing Carole King's classic 1971 album 'Tapestry' in its original order, celebrating community and music. The event includes lip-sync performances, some live singing, and a raffle for handmade knit art. It serves as a fundraiser for the San Francisco Ducal Council, supporting local organizations like Pomeroy Recreation & Rehabilitation Center and Castro Country Club. Hosted by Dusty Pörn and VERA, with DJ Rio providing music. Doors open at 17:30, show starts at 17:30, and ends at 20:30. Tickets are $10, available online or at the door.

The Stud

Carole King's Tapestry in Drag

Royales Drag Presents: Wanna Cyber? 3rd Anniversary Party

Stage Room

A party celebrating the third anniversary of Royales Drag with a cyber-themed performance and entertainment.

A leather-themed night event held at The Edge in San Francisco, featuring a welcoming atmosphere for everyone to express themselves in gear that fits their desires. The event is scheduled for Saturday, February 28, 2026, starting at 21:00 and ending at 02:00.

The Edge

CODE (Leather Night in The Castro)

Victor Artis loves to take his audience on a journey into their hearts and souls, with emotional thoughtful lyrics, rather it makes you dance, groove or cry you’re feel alive and motivated to know and accept yourself and others. the audience leaves Victor’s shows feeling encouraged & inspired. You don’t wanna miss this night of amazing music!

Victor Artis with Oblivion 9, Often Easy and PVJR

A party featuring live music by Victor Artis and other performers focused on inspiring self-acceptance and emotional connection.

Chicago Garage / Power Pop duo northbynorthmusic to the El Rio stage alongside calicowhenever , indigoelephantband , and arana_grande_sf ! This night of spectacular live music! Grab your friends and hit the dance floor!

North by North at El Rio

A live music party featuring the Chicago garage and power pop duo northbynorthmusic along with other bands at El Rio.

Warped is a night of music and dancing with the Bay Area’s best djs and drag performers! Featuring punk rock/emo music from the 90s/00s. Featuring performances from delilahblackheart the_empressxastara floorgasm.official. Hosted by nitrixoxidedrag. Featuring DJ limoncitogogo and datdjnico.

Warped Drag Night

A night of music, dancing, and drag performances featuring punk rock and emo music from the 90s and 00s.

A punk rock and emo themed night featuring DJ Limoncito and DJ Nico. Doors open at 9 PM with a drag show at 11 PM. Cover charge is $5, tickets available on Eventbrite.

Warped Punk Rock/Emo Night

Folsom St. (between 6th-12th)

Celebrating 20 years of BEARRACUDA with a special party at The Stud.

BEARRACUDA 20 Year Anniversary

An unforgettable night at El Rio featuring Grag Queen, host of Drag Race Brasil and winner of The Queen of The Universe, and award-winning musician Bright Light Bright Light.

Cosmic Light: Grag Queen & Bright Light Bright Light

A drag show featuring Grag Queen and musician Bright Light Bright Light at El Rio.

An electric night of music and dancing featuring brightlightx2 and gragqueen.

Cosmic Light: North American Tour

A lively party with music and dancing featuring brightlightx2 and gragqueen.

Salsa Sundays on the Patio featuring ericrangel54. Carnaval after party.

Salsa Sundays

A dance party featuring salsa music and a carnaval after party.

Salsa Sundays on the Patio featuring loskimberos.

A social dance party featuring salsa music and loskimberos performers at El Rio.

A recurring drag brunch event held at The Detour in San Francisco, featuring performances and brunch offerings.

City Hall

Sunday Funday Drag Brunch

Salsa Sundays on the Patio featuring daniloyuniversal. Carnaval after party.

Salsa Sundays - Carnaval After Party

A lively dance party featuring salsa music and a carnaval after party.

Drag Brunch featuring Bonita Rose, Camellia, Bubbles Tots, and Fall Out Fattie, celebrating Memorial Day Weekend.

Queer Nightlife in San Francisco