Free Daily Programming in Union Square Plaza
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Enjoy free daily programming at Union Square Plaza, featuring a vibrant mix of live music, dance, fitness classes, art activities, and family-friendly fun. Whether you're stopping by on your lunch break or spending the day exploring the city, there’s always something happening in the heart of San Francisco. All events are open to the public—come join the fun!
Cinema on the Square
Films at Sunset | Aug 16, Sept 20, Oct 4
Celebrate San Francisco on film at Union Square Plaza! Join us before every show for movie trivia, prizes, performances, drinks from the bar (for purchase), popcorn (while supplies last), and more! Presented in partnership with Alamo Drafthouse Cinema.
Limited seating is available. Bring your own low chair or blanket, and warm layers! Leashed dogs are welcome. Union Square is ADA accessible. Parking information may be found here but public transit use is encouraged.
SEPTEMBER 20: BIG HERO 6 (2014), PG+
OCTOBER 4: THE BIRDS (1963), PG-13+
Free Amenities
Open 9am – 7pm | Daily
KIDS ZONE, Come play with bubbles, giant blocks, children’s books, and fun weekly programs!
RECESS CART, Tabletop games and craft supplies for all ages to borrow while you’re in the park.
READING AND CHESS PAVILION, Stimulate your mind with chess sets and classic books available to borrow in this quiet corner.
BIG GAMES, Challenge your friends to a game of Pop-a-Shot, ping pong, corn hole, or giant Jenga!
Mondays
MAHJONG MONDAYS: LESSONS + SOCIAL, 11:30am – 1:30pm
Come learn to play mahjong, hone your strategy, or meet new opponents during weekly sessions. Led by local enthusiast Andrew Keeler.
SKETCHING CLASSES, 4:30pm – 6:30pm
Learn how to do charcoal, pencil and pen sketch drawings based on figures, architecture, botanicals, and more. Artist/educators are graduates or students from California.
Tuesdays
TODDLER TUESDAY, 10am – 11:30am | Tuesdays
Music, movement, and fairies, oh my! Bring your little ones for interactive and musical activities, led on a rotating basis by Happily Ever Laughter, JAMaROO Kids, Music Together of SF, and the SF Public Library. All ages are welcome, but the program will be geared towards kids aged 2-4. Caretaker supervision is required at all times.
TUESDAY BLUES, 4:30pm – 6:30pm
Turn your Tuesday into a celebration of music and joy as the vibrant sounds of blues and jazzmusic fill the Square! Curated by Biscuits and Blues and Jazz in the Neighborhood on a rotating basis.
Wednesday
TAI CHI, 8am – 9am
Achieve greater physical and mental wellness by practicing the art of Tai Chi with 64 Movements.
CARDIO DANCE, 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Rae Studios hosts FREE outdoor class experiences in various neighborhoods throughout San Francisco including UN Plaza, Union Square, Mission Rock and Fisherman’s Wharf.
Thursday
LUNCHBREAK MUSIC IN THE SQUARE, 11:30am – 1:30pm
Bring your lunch for an alfresco escape and tap your toes to local indie and singer-songwriters.
CRAFTERNOONS, 4:30pm – 6:30pm
Learn to make and take home a wide-ranging variety of arts and crafts, from knitting to upcycled sculptures to natural printmaking. Drop in anytime during the program and stay as long as you’d like. Led by fantastic local institutions like Britex Fabrics and SCRAP. All ages are welcome, but children should be accompanied by a grown-up helper.
Friday
CHESS LESSONS AND SOCIAL, 11:30am – 1:30pm
Come learn to play chess, hone your strategy, or meet new opponents during weekly programs led by the Mechanics’ Institute. Located at the Reading and Chess Pavilion in the southeast corner of the park.
UNION SQUARE DANCES, 5pm – 8pm
Rotating styles of free live music and dancing outdoors in the Square include Tango, Country-western Dance, Salsa, Swing and Bollywood. Each event features a dance lesson and then open dancing. All are welcome and no experience or partner is needed!
Saturday
JUGGLING LESSONS, 11:30am – 1:30pm | Saturdays
Test your dexterity and meet the talented jugglers of Circus Bella! Join in for a quick lesson, stay the whole time, or just enjoy watching others put their skills to the test. All skill levels are welcome and beginner equipment (scarves and balls) will be provided.
SECOND SATURDAYS ‘ROUND THE WORLD, 11am – 2pm | September 13, October 11
Experience the many cultural traditions represented in San Francisco through a day of themed music, dance performance, and crafts! Check back for more info on upcoming months’ themes.
KARAOKE, 4pm – 7pm | Sept 27
Bring your friends, your questionable singing voice, and your main character energy to Union Square’s stage!
Sunday
11am – 2pm
Calling all kids and their families! Join us for fun and free drop-in S.T.E.A.M. activities led by Maker Studio Kidz and local museums as specified. Activities geared towards kids aged 5 12. Caretaker supervision is required at all times.
Program schedule is subject to change. Follow @unionsquaresf on social media for the latest info.
