Made in SF with ❤️
San Francisco is buzzing, and for good reason! The iconic sounds of the Grateful Dead are returning home to celebrate their 60th anniversary, with Dead & Company headlining three historic nights at Golden Gate Park’s Polo Fields this August 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, 2025. This isn’t just a concert; it’s a pilgrimage for Deadheads and a momentous occasion for the city that birthed a cultural phenomenon.
With Bob Weir and Mickey Hart joining John Mayer, Oteil Burbridge, Jeff Chimenti, and Jay Lane, these shows are set to be an unforgettable tribute to the band’s enduring legacy. Plus, each night features a special guest – Billy Strings (Friday), Sturgill “Johnny Blue Skies” Simpson (Saturday), and Trey Anastasio Band (Sunday) – making each evening unique. I’m going to be attending Friday’s show for Billy Strings.
If you’re lucky enough to have snagged tickets (they sold out quickly), here are some tips to make your Grateful Dead 60th Anniversary experience in San Francisco truly legendary:
Getting There: Navigating Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is vast, and with up to 60,000 fans expected daily, planning your transportation is key.
- Public Transportation is Your Friend: San Francisco’s MUNI system offers various bus lines that can get you close to Golden Gate Park. Check the specific routes and times closest to the Polo Fields. Ride-sharing services will also be an option, but expect surge pricing and potential delays due to traffic.
- Shuttles: Ticketmaster is selling shuttle passes from Cow Palace (Daly City) or Civic Center. If you plan to drive and park, Cow Palace seems like a good bet to me.
- Parking: While there may be limited designated parking, it’s highly recommended to use public transport or rideshares. If you must drive, research parking garages outside the immediate park area and be prepared for a walk. Carpooling is also highly encouraged to minimize traffic congestion.
- Walking/Biking: If you’re staying in a nearby neighborhood, consider walking or biking to the park. It’s a fantastic way to soak in the San Francisco atmosphere and avoid traffic. Bike valet services might be available at the event, so check closer to the date.
What to Expect & What to Bring: Be Prepared for a Golden Gate Groove
If you are traveling from elsewhere, please note that San Francisco in August can be a mixed bag of weather but likely way colder than where you’re traveling from. While daytime temperatures are typically mild (around 67°F average high), evenings cool down significantly (around 54°F average low), and “Karl the Fog” often makes an appearance.
- Layer Up! This is the golden rule for San Francisco weather. Start with a t-shirt, add a long-sleeved shirt or light sweater, and definitely bring a jacket – something waterproof is a bonus, just in case. A small blanket or towel is also allowed for lounging on the lawn.
- Shakedown: Looking for merch? The official Shakedown for GD60 looks to be an organized event with official vendors on all 3 days from 10am to 6pm, located on the JFK promenade. There’s more info on their Instagram here.
- Footwear: You’ll be doing a lot of walking and standing. Comfortable closed-toe shoes are essential.
- Bags: Bring a backpack made of clear plastic / vinyl / PVC or a small bag (up to 6″ x 8″ x 3″) to expedite entry. Small non-clear clutches (typically wallet-sized) are often allowed, but confirm specifics with the venue’s policy.
- Stay Hydrated: You can bring an empty hydration pack with a bladder capacity of under 2.5L / 150 in. and no more than one additional pocket. You can also bring empty, refillable plastic water bottle (no glass) and a sealed bottle of water (up to one gallon). There will be water stations available.
- Essentials: Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat or sunglasses for daytime sun, and portable phone charger.
- Prohibited Items: Leave coolers (of any size), chairs with legs, recording devices (unless you have an official taper ticket), professional cameras with detachable lenses, alcohol, and anything that could be considered a weapon at home. Check the official event website closer to the date for a comprehensive list.
Where can I find more music?
- Heart of Town: Party the night away and attend Grahame Lesh & Friends’ organized event. There is a whole host of names performing. I’ve heard that Mikela Davis is awesome, and Melvin Seals is the guy who plays the Hammond / played with Jerry Garcia and always kills it during Jerry Day.
- Jerry Day: On August 2nd, the annual Jerry Day concert at the Jerry Garcia Amphitheater in McLaren Park is a free event celebrating Jerry Garcia’s birthday.
Pre- and Post-Concert Vibes: Extend Your San Francisco Experience
The Grateful Dead’s 60th Anniversary is more than just the concerts. Be sure to make use of your time in San Francisco and check out some other fun places to visit. I have a guide here.
- Haight-Ashbury: Immerse yourself in the historical heart of the counterculture movement. The Haight-Ashbury merchants are hosting celebrations throughout June, July, and August, with live music, art, and special promotions.
- Excelsior: While the Haight-Ashbury often steals the spotlight when it comes to the Grateful Dead, true Deadheads know that Jerry Garcia’s story begins much fur ther south, in the vibrant and diverse Excelsior District of San Francisco. It was in this working-class neighborhood that a young Jerry spent his formative years, particularly living with his grandparents on Harrington Street after his father’s passing. The Excelsior provided the backdrop for many of his early experiences – from attending Monroe Elementary School to being exposed to diverse musical influences, including the country and bluegrass sounds his grandmother loved. Don’t miss the commemorative “Jerry Garcia Street” sign unveiling on August 1st at Harrington Street.
- Golden Gate Park Exploration: Before the show, explore the vastness of Golden Gate Park. Visit the Japanese Tea Garden, the California Academy of Sciences, or simply wander through the beautiful landscapes.
- Dining: While you can bring your own food into the concert, consider exploring the diverse dining options around San Francisco before or after the show. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, there’s something for every taste. I’ve some recommendations on my favorite San Francisco spots here.
- Accommodation: If you’re coming from out of town, book your accommodations well in advance. Hotels across the city will likely be in high demand.
This 60th anniversary celebration is a rare opportunity to witness a piece of music history in the making. Get ready to dance, sing along, and celebrate the enduring spirit of the Grateful Dead in the city where it all began. Enjoy the show, Deadheads!
