Downtown First Thursdays Is Back This Week — What To Know About The Massive Free Block Party In SFDowntown First Thursdays Is Back This Week — What To Know About The Massive Free Block Party In SF
Courtesy of Downtown First Thursdays/ Sammy Braxton-Haney @sammyeventphotos

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Downtown First Thursdays is one of San Francisco’s most popular monthly events, regularly drawing major crowds to the free block party. The event series was first launched in 2024 as part of ongoing plans to help revitalize Downtown San Francisco. The free block parties were a major success and will continue throughout 2026. Here’s what to know about the March block party.

Now, we’re only a few days away from this month’s party, on Thursday, March 5, from 5 to 10 pm. The street party will be headlined by DJ Sofia Kourtesis, a Berlin-based artist known for house and latin inspired music. Kourtesis will perform on the main stage at Howard and 2nd Street from 7 to 9 pm, and you can expect plenty of great music perfect for dancing.

person dancing at Downtown First Thursdaysperson dancing at Downtown First ThursdaysCourtesy of Downtown First Thursdays/ Sammy Braxton-Haney @sammyeventphotos

Aside from the free performance from Kourtesis, the free street party will include an outdoor discoteca, a dance hall, karaoke, and more. This month’s party also offers plenty of creative opportunities, including live portraits by Academy of Art students, paper flower-making, and screen printing. You can also make ini Beaded Plant Magnets, or explore the crafts station hosted by the Yerba Buena Partnership and The East Cut.

downtown first thursdaysdowntown first thursdaysCourtesy of Downtown First Thursdays/ Sammy Braxton-Haney @sammyeventphotos

You can also explore local art at 111 Minna Gallery, or grab a drink at one of the many outdoor bars. Plus, explore local vendors and food trucks for a bite to eat, or explore one of the nearby businesses. If you’re an art enthusiast, we recommend stopping by either the SFMOMA or MoAD, which are both only a short walk from the block party.

The next Downtown First Thursdays is on March 5, from 5 to 10 pm. The party is free and open to all ages, and we recommend taking public transit as it may be difficult to find parking in the area. Check it out on 2nd Street between Market and Howard in SF.