March 2011 Events for Golden Gate Park

Bring out the shamrocks and running shoes – it’s March at Golden Gate Park. This month, you will find activities and events that entertain, educate, and allow you to save money.

Early Bird Tickets for Outside Lands (March 11)

They say the early bird catches the worm, and the Outside Lands event is no exception to the rule. You can save more than $50 when you purchase the Eager Beaver tickets for $149.50. Outside Lands is a popular San Francisco gathering that lasts up to three days filled with music, food, art, education, and green opportunities. In 2011, the event will be held from August 12 to 14. While there is no indication on the kind of headliners to expect – you’re sure to encounter talent that will pique your interest. To lock in your tickets, visit http://www.sfoutsidelands.com/tickets/.

Z Day Event (March 12)

Golden Gate Park will host the second of three days of the annual worldwide Z Day Event, which is meant to increase public awareness of The Zeitgeist Movement and The Venus Project.
Hosted by the San Francisco Chapter, it is free to participate in this event, and will be held at the Pioneer East Meadows (located at John F Kennedy Drive and Stow Lake Drive) between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. For more information, check out http://tinyurl.com/5vba478

St. Patrick’s at California Academy of Sciences (March 17)

If you’re looking for a way to bring in St. Patrick’s Day, head for the California Academy of Sciences, where a celebration awaits your arrival. The weekly Nightlife event will focus on various activities and entertainment, such as live Irish music and dancing. Music will be provided by DJ Nako. The festivities start at 6 p.m. and carry on until 10 p.m. The cost for this event is $12. Must be 21 years or older to participate.

Scavenger Run (March 19)

The Half Full Running Club will host a scavenger run that sees teams racing to bring back photographic proof of mystery items. The objects will be spread across the park – over the course of at least 4 miles on foot. Each team needs one camera phone to take pictures of found objects. If you don’t have a team by the 19th, come anyway and you will have a chance to make new friends. Meet at Sharon Meadows at 8:30 a.m. to enjoy this free event.

Friday Movie Nights at Park Chalet

One of these Friday nights, how’d you like to enjoy a cold brew amongst locals? The Park Chalet has been entertaining the masses with their free movies on Fridays. There is no cover charge to enjoy a flick with friends – right in Golden Gate Park. The theme for this month is Superheroes.
Movies scheduled for March are:

• Spiderman (3/11)
• Batman – The Dark Knight (3/18)
• The 1978 version of Superman: the Movie (3/25)

February 2011 Events in Golden Gate Park

This February, pre-celebrate Valentine's Day or find a new love in Golden Gate Park, and then after the haze of romance has dissipated – take advantage of a variety of opportunities to explore the park by running, walking, and riding.

Valentine's Pre-Celebration at Conservatory of Flowers (Feb 9)

This after hours Valentine's event is sure to kick off romance for an upcoming February 14 celebration. The Conservatory of Flowers is hosting 'Jungle Love' on February 9, 2011, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. – giving guests access to 12,000 square feet of exotic, fragrant and rare flowers. Other perks include a cash bar, specialty brews of craft beer makers, live music with Jazz Quartet, poems on demand, and a late night peek at the Garden Railway. This event is for 21 and over only. Tickets cost $5. For more information, check out http://www.conservatoryofflowers.org.

Guided Segway Tours in the Park

Have you heard that you can enjoy a guided Segway tour of Golden Gate Park? There are more than 1,000 acres of greenery and other sights for you to explore with the help of Segway i2's with Lean Steer. The park has its own exclusive licensed Segway tour operator located behind the bandstand at the Music Concourse. In order to enjoy this experience, you must make a reservation. Professional guides are waiting to treat you to a fully narrated journey. Tours are offered daily at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. (November to March) and 9 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 4 p.m. (April to October).

City Running Tours (Feb 12)

Looking for an opportunity to enjoy a group run about Golden Gate Park? On Saturday, February 12, 2011 (10 a.m.), pass by the Japanese Tea Garden, the Botanical Garden, Buffalo Paddock, rose gardens, the California Academy of Science, and the DeYoung Museum during a run through the park. The overall course is flat and measures about 6 ½ miles. Registration ends on Friday, February 11, 2011 at 3 p.m. A bottle of water will be provided to each participant. For more information, click here.

Thinkwalks Walking Tour (Feb 13)

Beyond the original borders of San Francisco were dunes called the Outside Lands. In the past, the region was regarded a wasteland, but today, it's a pretty nice place to be. If you're looking for an outlet for exercise, consider the Thinkwalks Walking Tour filled with history. This two-mile excursion starts at the Haight and continues on to the museums of Golden Gate Park. Meet at the Post Office at Clayton and Haight on February 13, 2011 – exactly at 11:30 a.m. The walk is set to end at 2 p.m. You must RSVP as this event is limited to 15 people. Donations are asked – between $10 and $40. More info: http://www.thinkwalks.org/tours/

Lunar New Year Floral Display (until Feb 20)

Golden Gate Park is home to the colorful, nature-lover approved Conservatory of Flowers. During the month of February, you can celebrate the Chinese New Year: Year of the Rabbit right at your favorite park. Step into the Conservatory to enjoy plant symbols of the Lunar New Year, such as pomelo, kumquat, and Mandarin oranges. There will also be a handful of unique and aromatic citrus plants hailing from all over Asia, including Buddha’s Hand and Rangpur lime. Don't miss out on your opportunity to enjoy good fortune and wealth for 2011. The floral display is held every day (except Mondays) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The exhibit ends on February 20, 2011.

Golden Gate Park Events: Holiday Fitness and Garden Magic

Thanks to chocolate Santas and frosted sugar cookies, the holidays are a notorious time of the year for packing on the pounds. However, Golden Gate Park has an opportunity for you to jumpstart your metabolism before all the damage is done. Then, you can relax with the family at a Conservatory of Flowers local tradition.

Holiday Boot Camp

To prep your body for the holiday season, AlaVie Boot Camp offers award-winning workouts at Golden Gate Park during the early morning. Classes are held at Sharon Meadows (at Bowling Green and Kezar Drive) with two different options to choose from: 6 a.m. women’s only class and 7 a.m. co-ed class.

The Holiday Boot Camp is offered before Christmas and before New Year’s Eve on the following dates:

December 20 to 23
December 27 to 30

For more details, check out http://alaviefitness.com/view_camp_details.php?camp=1451 (6am) and http://alaviefitness.com/view_camp_details.php?camp=1452 (7am). You can also send an email to info@alaviefitnes.com or call (415) 567-7411 or visit our website: http://www.alaviefitness.com for more information. Tickets for this event is $20 to $50.

Garden Railway

A traditional holiday event that takes place in Golden Gate Park is the Garden Railway. Located at 100 John F Kennedy Dr, visitors of all ages come to the Conservatory of Flowers to see the model trains and trolleys that travel about a miniature display of specialty gardens in the park. From the residents at the bison paddock to the Dutch Windmill, you’ll find a delightful exhibit that also uses recycled and repurposed materials to create the magic.

The Garden Railway is on display until Tuesday April 5, 2011. The Conservatory of Flowers is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The price of admission is $5 for general entry, $3 for kids 12 to 17, and $1.50 for seniors/students with ID.

Chocolate and Hiking at Golden Gate Park

You probably didn’t think you’d be able to satisfy your sweet tooth at a place like Golden Gate Park, but the range of events that occur at the park is vast. One minute you’re dining on artisan candies and the next – exercising in the great outdoors with never-ending scenery at your fingertips.

“A Chocolate-covered NightLife”

On Thursday, December 16th, the California Academy of Sciences is hosting a sweet event as part of their Nightlife program from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thanks to TCHO, Madecasse, The Tea Room, and Divine Chocolate, you will have access to booths offering chocolate and information. Special presentations are also scheduled, including a Truffle and Ganache Cooking Demonstration at 7 p.m. with the executive chef and founder of La Bonne Cuisine, Christophe Kubiak. The talks are limited so keep in mind that passes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 
Sip on one of the chocolate drinks on hand, such as Bison Brew’s Chocolate Stout, while listening to DJs Al Kal, Adrian and Mysterious D. An acapella group will also perform in the Piazza at 7:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. to keep you in the holiday spirit. Tickets for this event range from $10 (for Academy members) to $12. You must be 21 years or older to attend. To purchase tickets by phone, call 415-379-8000.

Golden Gate Park Hike

Get your blood pumping and mind clear for the holidays with a hike of the entire length of Golden Gate Park. Join up with other locals at the beginning of the park (intersection of Stanyan and Kezar drive) on Saturday, December 18, 2010 at 11 a.m. The group will hike the length of the park and head back after enjoying a lunch break. For more information, check out http://www.hikingsanfrancisco.com/ 
Toys for Tots

This holiday season, you can also give a little and get a little back when you participate in the Toys for Tots program at the California Academy of Sciences. Simply bring in a new, unwrapped toy the next time you visit the Academy. Donate the toy and you’ll get in return a $3 discount on your admission to the Academy. The program is being held in conjunction with the United States Marine Corps until December 20th, 2010.

Chocolate and Hiking at Golden Gate Park

“A Chocolate-covered NightLife”

Golden Gate Park Hike

Oktoberfest at Park Chalet and Now & Zen Festival at Speedway Meadow

It's a weekend featuring festivals at Golden Gate Park. First up is a cultural get-together on Saturday at one of the park's finest eateries. On Sunday, prepare for a day filled with rock music that will have your head and body in motion.

Oktoberfest – Park Chalet

Oktoberfest is one of the most famous events in Germany, as well as the largest fair in the world. Since the chances of you enjoying the festivities in Europe are pretty slim, the Park Chalet is hoping you'll join in their celebration on Saturday, September 25, 2010. The third annual Oktoberfest Celebration at Park Chalet will kick off at 1 p.m. – promising Liter Steins of beer and edibles from an outdoor barbeque and bar.

A live performance from Deutscher Musikverein of San Francisco – a 30-piece German oom-pah band will fill the air with authentic sounds. It's suggested to arrive early to get a decent seat. Bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket. There's no need to make a reservation, simply stop by to enjoy good food, drink, music and company.

Now & Zen Festival – Speedway Meadow

Say goodbye to summer with the annual season-end concert hosted by Alice 97.3 that will feature the talent of Sara Bareilles, Plain White T’s, Natasha Bedingfield, Five For Fighting, and Ryan Star. In addition to the handful of rock musicians and bands scheduled to entertain, the Now & Zen Festival promises a collection of satisfying food, vendors and specialty booths. Head for Speedway Meadow in Golden Gate Park on Sunday, September 26, 2010 (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.) to take advantage of this free event.

Culture and Collection in the Park

Golden Gate Park has seen many cultural celebrations unfold on its endless stretches of green. The park also allows people to indulge in their hobbies, including collecting objects of affection. This weekend, you can see what's happening at the San Francisco County Fair Building on Saturday or dance and be merry at the Ukrainian Day Concert on Sunday.

Ukrainian Day Concert

The Ukrainian Day Concert will take place at the Music Concourse Bandshell in Golden Gate Park on Sunday, August 29, 2010 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

In celebration of the 19th anniversary of Ukraine's independence, Golden Gate Park will fill with local Ukrainian performers displaying traditional costumes and sharing folk dances with the public. Ukrainian songs and music will create a jubilant setting for locals looking to explore one of the many cultures residing in San Francisco.

Usually, people bring along a picnic to enjoy during the festivities. This event is sponsored by the Ukrainian-American Coordinating Council of Northern California in cooperation with the Ukrainian Heritage Club of Northern California. For more details, you can contact Maria Tscherepenko at uaccofnc@yahoo.com   License Plate Show

Looking for an event you don't see everyday? At the San Francisco County Fair Building, the ALPCA Gold Rush Region will meet on August 28, 2010 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to host the California License Plate Show. There will also be legislative plate awards for displays and single plates. Souvenir plates are also planned. For more information, contact Scott Broady at (415) 665-7297 or scott.broady@yahoo.com.

Spirit Rising Event at Golden Gate Park

Just by walking through the many nooks and crannies of Golden Gate Park, you may encounter a personal spiritual awakening, but this Saturday, you may take advantage of a structured event centered on sacred energy, prayer, music and dance. The Center for Sacred Studies is hosting Spirit Rising – a fundraiser for the International Council of 13 Indigenous Grandmothers on August 21, 2010 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

This event will take place at Fulton And Lincoln in Golden Gate Park, where participants will come in contact with some of the sacred energy associated with the internationally acclaimed Grandmothers Council.

The event will also honor Carole Hart, an Emmy and Peabody award-winning director who captured the story of the Grandmothers in a documentary film called For the Next 7 Generations. Inspirational speakers will also enlighten guests with uplifting words from Lynne Twist, Grandmother Agnes, Grandmother Flordemayo, Jyoti and Terces Engelhart.

Additional highlights of Spirit Rising include drumming and dance that represents a variety of Nations and cultures, including Native American, Haitian, Taiko Sisters, Turtle Women Rising, and Jaynie Lara. Jamaican reggae artist Ras Midas will share his message of social justice, love and unity. Other guests of the event include Native activist and First Nations artist Phillip Meshekey, indigenous soul performer Goodshield Aguilar, and members of Goddess Alchemy Project.

For more information, check out http://www.grandmotherscouncil.org/node/64.  

Outside Lands Festival Recap

I'm still recovering from the mixture of last weekend's sensory overload experienced at the Outside Lands Festival, which took place at the always-impressive Golden Gate Park. The occasional cool breeze added to the already refreshing atmosphere. The combination of food, art, music, and education sent an undeniable energy throughout the flocks of locals and visitors that I'd like to share with you.

The Outside Lands Festival never ceases to impress me with the musical acts as red-hot collaborations, oldies but goodies, and upcoming superstars electrify the stages. Patiently, I took in sounds of performances – both familiar and new to me – from the powerful voice of Cat Power to the liveliness of Janelle Monae. Soulful crooner Al Green also proved that he still has the ability to groove a crowd. This year, acts were spaced out enough where I didn’t have to make the mad dash from one stage to another.

The presence of sustainability and green living was strong at Outside Lands. Garbage cans clearly marked Recycle, Trash, and Compost dotted the grounds. Where else will you find a popular event that offers a can solely designated for composting?

My stomach still craves the barbequed oysters from Anchor & Hope and taste of custom-crafted wines. This year, more wineries were represented at the festival and are said to have sold more vino than the two previous festivals put together. I wasn’t able to indulge cuisine from all of the nearly 35 food stalls, but was able to bring home a few goodies from the onsite farmer's market.

One thing is for sure, I thoroughly enjoyed myself and will definitely be in attendance next year.

Outside Lands Festival 2010

Throughout the year, Golden Gate Park sees a great deal of events centered on music, art and food. The Outside Lands Festival is just one of the many examples of how the park allows you to continue an endless exploration of culture, different lifestyles, and entertainment. This popular San Francisco festival will be held August 14 and 15, 2010 in and around the Polo Field and Speedway Meadow.

A Sustainable Event

From the Panhandle Solar Stage to Gardening Workshops, there are plenty of opportunities to expand your knowledge about eco-initiatives taking place in your neck of the woods. Other sustainable features of the Outside Lands Festival include refillable water, waste diversion, valet bike parking, beach cleanup, a recycling store and cell phone recycling.

Power to the Music

No Outside Lands Festival is complete without an electrifying lineup of musicians. On Saturday, take in the sounds of The Strokes, Tokyo Police Club, People Under the Stairs, The Whigs, Pretty Lights, and Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars. Sunday brings the talents of Kings of Leon, Al Green, Nas and Bob Marley's son, Damien "Jr. 'Gong" Marley, Empire of the Sun, Phoenix, and Janelle Monae.

Eat Your Heart Out

Food is another big attraction of the Outside Lands Festival, where you can munch on tater tots and grilled sandwiches from Grumpy's, succulent oysters from Anchor & Hope, and guajilla beef short ribs from Tacolicious. Cap off your day with a scoop of refreshing Three Twins organic ice cream. Also, three more wineries will be on hand this year to quench your thirst.

Other highlights of the Outside Lands Festival include showcases of local art, the opportunity to purchase memorable keepsakes, entertaining demonstrations, and plenty of learning experiences and activities. For more information, check out the main website for the festival at http://www.sfoutsidelands.com.

The 2010 San Francisco Marathon

It's that time again…when runners test their endurance and take to the streets for the annual San Francisco Marathon. On July 25, 2010, a variety of running events will take place, including a full marathon, 1st half marathon, 2nd half marathon, the 5K, and the Progressive Marathon. This weekend, come to Golden Gate Park to cheer on some of our local runners.

Start Times

The Full Marathon and 1st Half Marathon will start in waves between 5:30 a.m. and 6:35 a.m.
The 2nd Half Marathon will begin at 8:15 a.m. in Golden Gate Park. The 5K and Progressive Marathon have a start time of 7:45 a.m. If any availability exists, you can still register at the Expo on July 23 and 24, 2010. Only 5K participants are allowed to register on Race Day.

Details

If you are registered to run in the San Francisco Marathon, consider the following details:

• With all races, the starts will be strict to lessen congestion on the bridge and along the course.

• Marathon runners will travel on a course comprised of asphalt, concrete, grass and earth terrains. Various sections of the course may have light rail lines and curbs.

• For participants, twelve water, toilet and aid stations are positioned along the course. The start and finish lines will also have these stations set up for runners. One or more misting stations will also be found along the course – located close to the final miles of the Full Marathon route.

• At the finish line, all finishers are welcome to rejuvenate with a variety of food. In the past, runners have enjoyed water, potato chips, cheesy bread rolls, cytomax, energy bars, and bananas.

For more information regarding the 2010 San Francisco Marathon, click here.

Wining, Dining & Running in the Park

Golden Gate Park is constantly hosting exciting tours – both indoor and outdoor. This weekend, you'll have a chance to wine and dine in the midst of a popular city attraction, as well as explore one of the most exquisite natural treasures in San Francisco…on foot.

After Hours Wine & Dine Tours

If you're looking for a place to wine and dine your sweetie, the California Academy of Sciences in will open its doors for after-hours tours in July and August. From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., on Wednesdays and Sundays, you are invited to experience the exhibits of the Academy when all the hustle and bustle of the daytime crowds has subsided. Participants will also enjoy a three-course dinner in the Moss Room – designed by renowned chef and restaurateur Loretta Keller.

The After Hours Wine & Dine tour will take place on July 18, 21, 25, 28 and August 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, and 29. Explore the Academy and its world class exhibits after it is closed to the public, and enjoy a delicious three course dinner designed by renowned chef and restaurateur Loretta Keller in the Moss Room. Begin with a wine reception, take a one-hour private tour of the Academy, & then sit down with your party for a special dinner in the Moss Room. read more
The cost to enjoy this event is $159 per person (price of dinner included). For more details, call 415-379-8000.

Running in the Park

This Sunday, July 18, 2010 at 10 a.m. an invigorating experience awaits you – the chance to explore Golden Gate Park with a group of runners. The run will pass by rose gardens, meadows, lakes, and also give you a chance to wave 'hi' at the bison in the Paddock. The 6-½ mile run mostly consists of flat terrain that also includes the sights of the Japanese Tea Garden, the Botanical Garden, the California Academy of Science, and the DeYoung Museum. Each participant will receive a bottle of water. For more information, check out the Active.com website.

2010 Outside Lands Festival in Golden Gate Park

It's that time of the year again, when San Francisco transforms one of its open spaces into a mecca for locals and tourists looking for the ultimate cultural experience. The Outside Lands Festival jam-packs a variety of music, food, wine, and art into a 2-day event filled with creativity, green features, and non-stop fun. The highly acclaimed festival will take place August 14 and 15, 2010 at Golden Gate Park.

Tickets

Two-day tickets go on sale for the Outside Lands Festival on June 2nd, 2010 (10 a.m.-Pacific), while single-day tickets are available on June 6th (10 a.m.-Pacific). Prices range from $75 for single-day entry to $395 for a VIP 2-day ticket.

Music

Whether you're listening to your much loved musician or discovering a new favorite, the musical lineup of the Outside Lands Festival is one of the most anticipated features. This year, look forward to the likes of Furthur, The Strokes, and Tokyo Police Club to jam on Saturday, Aug 14. The lineup for Sunday, Aug 15 includes Kings of Leon, People Under the Stairs, and the positive messages of Nas and Damian 'Jr Gong' Marley (yes, Bob Marley's son). For more information on the musical lineup for the 2010 Outside Lands Festival.

Food

You won't go hungry while attending the Outside Lands Festival, as there are plenty of food vendors to sample. Try Cilantro Lime Chicken Skewers from Asquw Grill. Sip on French-style hot chocolate from Charles Chocolates. From sweet crepes (Ti Couz) to unique treats, such as Duck and Venison Sausage Jambalaya (Yats New Orleans Original Poboy), there's defintely something to please everyone's palate.

Bay To Breakers 2010 at Golden Gate Park

This weekend, there's something for both adults and children alike to enjoy while visiting Golden Gate Park.

Theater Performance at de Young Museum

An outing for all ages, but specifically geared towards younger visitors of the park, deYoung Museum opens its doors for a free event on Friday, May 14, 2010. Visit the museum at 6:30 p.m. to enjoy StageWrite: Super Hero Moves & Recycled Grooves – Short Plays by Short People. Inspired by works of art at deYoung, the evening will consist of seven original plays penned by fifth graders that attend Starr King Elementary.

The performances will then come to life with the help of professional actors. The TimeOuts & DJ Brotha Sub will supply music for the event. For more details and to make reservations, visit http://www.stagewrite.org.

Bay To Breakers

Thousands of runners will take to the San Francisco streets on Sunday, May 16, 2010 at 8 a.m. to enjoy the ING Bay to Breakers – an annual event that blends sections of Golden Gate Park into its course. The 99-year-old tradition is comprised of a 12k (7.46 mile) run known as the largest and oldest footraces in the world.

The course includes the northeast end of the downtown area close to The Embarcadero (also known as the "bay" side of the city) and takes runners to the west end of the city, and then onto the "breakers" of Ocean Beach.

The Bay to Breakers is a sight to see with participants that range from professional athletes to costumed characters. Fees to participate in the Bay to Breakers are between $35 and $44. For more information, call (415) 777-1630 or visit their website.

Kids Events at Golden Gate Park

Don't you think it's time to explore the family-friendly activities that take place at Golden Gate Park? This weekend, you'll find arts and adventure at the park.

Young at Art 2010

Young at Art 2010 celebrates the creativity of local youths with an eight-day extravaganza that kicks off Saturday, May 8, 2010 (9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.). The de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park will be playing host to a multitude of visual, literary, media and performing arts exhibitions – suitable for all ages to enjoy.

There will be more than 60 student and community groups scheduled to perform at Young at Art 2010, including choral groups, orchestras, dance ensembles, theatre groups, and jazz bands. Thanks to Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco and the Visual and Performing Arts Office of the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD), this free event is made possible.

If you can't pay a visit to the de Young Museum this weekend, Young at Art 2010 will continue until May 16, 2010. For more information, call (415) 750-3600.

Kids Adventure Hunt at the SF Botanical Garden

Come to the San Francisco Botanical Garden in Golden Gate Park on Saturday, May 8 (between 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. for an adventure in exploring the garden with a self-guided treasure hunt booklet. Obtain your booklets near the Garden Bookstore, where a small donation for your adventure packet goes towards benefiting SFBG Youth Education.

Inside, you'll encounter the blueprint to experience plants from all over the world. You'll encounter hidden waterways and a San Francisco rainforest on your journey. The Adventure Hunt is a pleasant family-friendly outing for all ages.