Stern Grove Festival
Every week Sunday from Sun., June 20 until Sun., August 22, 2:00pm
A Stern Reminder
By Marc Hawthorne
Summer is upon us, which for San Franciscans means bundling up for a few frigid months and clearing out as many Sundays as possible to make room for the Stern Grove Festival. Now in its 73rd season, the festival kicks off on June 20 with Grammy-winning West African singer Angélique Kidjo and opener Sarazino and then continues for nine more weeks, closing on August 22 with quirky pop outfit They Might Be Giants and local indie-rockers Rogue Wave. As usual, the eclectic schedule includes the San Francisco Opera (July 4), Symphony (July 11), and Ballet (Aug. 8).
"The San Francisco Bay Area is such a diverse community, and we try to reflect that every season with a wide variety of genres and artists," executive director Steven Haines says. "Our audience knows that even if they haven't heard of the artist performing, Stern Grove Festival is always a great time."
Located in the southwestern part of the city at Sloat Boulevard and 19th Avenue, Stern Grove’s beautiful setting tends to receive as many accolades as the performers. Add to that the fact that all shows are free, and concertgoers are strongly urged to get to the park well before the 2 p.m. starting time. "I think the biggest surprise for first-timers is just how many people get there early to claim their spot in the concert meadow, and how tranquil and remote the setting feels, even though it's in the city," Haines says. "Seating is first come, first served, and the hardcore fans are there first thing in the morning with their coffee and provisions." For more information about the Stern Grove Festival, visit www.sterngrove.org.
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