The San Francisco City Council has approved an amendment to a one-time outdoor event permit that will enhance community engagement at Fulton Plaza. The Civic Center Community Benefit District (CBD) will activate the plaza daily from February 8 through August 30, 2025, with programming that includes music ensembles, DJs, poetry readings, and other performances from 10 AM to 8 PM. This initiative aims to attract both locals and visitors, creating a vibrant atmosphere that connects the revitalized UN Plaza with the Civic Center Plaza.
Marlo Sandler, the CBD's program manager, emphasized the collaborative effort involving city agencies and cultural organizations to bring regular music programming to Fulton Plaza. The plan includes a free lunchtime concert series featuring soloists and small groups performing three days a week. The CBD has engaged with nearby institutions, such as the San Francisco Public Library and the Asian Art Museum, both of which have expressed support for the initiative.
To ensure a positive experience, sound management will be overseen by a dedicated technician, and crowd control will be coordinated with local ambassadors and park rangers. The CBD anticipates moderate attendance during weekday performances and is committed to maintaining clear and safe pedestrian pathways.
In a related development, the Downtown SF Partnership received approval for a similar amendment to their outdoor event permit, allowing for entertainment and amplified sound at Leidstorf from February 8 through July 20, 2025. This initiative will also run daily from 10 AM to 10 PM and aims to revitalize downtown San Francisco through a variety of arts activities, including music, dance, and movie nights.
Both initiatives reflect the city's ongoing commitment to enhancing public spaces and fostering community engagement through cultural programming. As these events unfold, they are expected to contribute positively to local traffic and economic activity, reinforcing San Francisco's vibrant cultural landscape.