Entertainment Commission approves limited live performances at Ocean Avenue Whole Foods

The San Francisco Entertainment Commission on Jan. 20 approved a limited live‑performance permit for the Whole Foods store on Ocean Avenue, allowing low‑impact music in the store café or window area as part of the Ocean Avenue Association's 'Second Sundays' neighborhood activation.

Janine Summerlin, store manager for the Ocean Avenue Whole Foods, told commissioners the pilot event in December included live painting and a small musical program and was well received by customers. Neil Ballard of the Ocean Avenue Association told the commission the music drew foot traffic that supported nearby merchants and helped 'activate the whole store.'

Commission members asked about scope and timing; staff explained the permit limits performances to the store cafe or front window and forbids activity past 10 p.m. Police recommended no conditions for this application; the permit bureau reported no objection from the local police station. Public commenters, including neighborhood organizers who helped coordinate the Second Sundays event, said the music packed nearby venues and generated food and beverage sales.

Commissioner Frost made the motion to approve; the motion passed unanimously with recorded ayes from Commissioners Frost, Lee, Moscianis, Perez and President Bridal Tan. The permit will allow Whole Foods to continue the small, daytime/evening music component specifically tied to Ocean Avenue's Second Sundays program while staff monitors any impacts and coordinates with police as needed.

The commission’s approval is limited to the application as presented; staff will follow up if complaints or requests for expanded activity arise.