San Francisco braces for half-a-million visitors as ‘music capital of the world’

SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — Over the next month or so, Golden Gate Park is expected to host almost half-a-million people.

“The next three weekends, San Francisco will be the music capital of the world,” boasted San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie in a social media post on Thursday. “We’ve got Dead & Company this weekend, Outside Lands next, and then Zach Bryan and Kings of Leon. Our city departments and event organizers are coordinated to make sure our residents and visitors have a safe and fun month ahead. Let’s go San Francisco!”

After Dead & Co. on Friday, August 1 through Sunday, August 3, there is Outside Lands on Friday, August 8 though Sunday, August 10. Zach Bryan will perform on Friday, August 15.

The surge in visitors means lots of cars and people with some folks spilling into the typically sleepy Sunset and Richmond neighborhoods. While neighbors may not be thrilled about the disruptions, some residents told KRON4 News that they’re okay with it.

“They get to see how great San Francisco as we are, as we already well know that” said one San Francisco resident. “I think, generally, I’m feeling very positive about it.”

The surrounding area will be tight for the next month or so. Organizers are encouraging concertgoers to use public transit whenever possible.

With the shows come road closures. Some entrances into the park will be blocked off for drivers starting Friday, including Transverse Drive at Crossover Drive, JFK Drive at Transverse Drive, 30th Avenue, 36th Avenue and more. See the full list of closures and reroutes here.