Ferry building in SF. Photo by Sergey Novikov on Shutterstock
Last year, San Francisco introduced a new public art initiative called the Big Art Loop. Just as the name suggests, the project aims to create a loop of large-scale public art installations around San Francisco. The loop currently covers 34 miles and includes over 25 sculptures, and organizers plan to add more pieces in the coming years.
The Embarcadero area is included in the loop, with numerous pieces placed along the waterfront. This September, a new event series launches, centered on the waterfront portion of the loop. Here’s what to know.
Waterfront Walkabout: Big Art Loop – Portside
The new event series will start on Thursday, September 17, taking over the waterfront from 5 to 8 pm. At the Ferry Building’s front plaza, you can expect live music, drinks, and even some oysters. Then, stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the Big Art Loop installations, along with interactive pop-ups.
For the first Waterfront Walkabout, the Ferry Plaza will host a paint-and-sip. Then, over at Pier 1/2, you can create mermaid-themed crafts, or head over to Pier 7 to take free professional photos. Finally, Pier 14 will feature live music. You can also join a guided walking tour of the art on the waterfront at either 5:30 or 6:30 pm.
After the debut celebration on September 17, the art walk will return on the third Thursday of the month. While you’re in the area, we recommend exploring the Ferry Building’s thriving marketplace, where you can shop local retail vendors or grab a bite and a drink.
Waterfront Walkabout is free and open to all ages. If you would like to join one of the art tours, be sure to register in advance, as space is limited.