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10 amazing things to do in San Francisco this weekend

Written by
Ivy McNally
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If you're lucky enough to have four days off this weekend, here's how you should spend them. 

FRIDAY

SF Opera at AT&T Park

If there’s anything that could improve a cultural outing to the War Memorial Opera House, it’s hot dogs and garlic fries. Worlds collide at this special event, as AT&T Park opens the gates to city arts aficionados for a night of opera under the stars. Don Giovanni will be simulcast on the JumboTron live from the opera house, as you and 30,000 fellows soak in Mozart’s famous score. If you’re not familiar with the tale, here’s all you need to know: Don Giovanni is a jerk. Enjoy. June 30 at AT&T Park 

Official Bay Area Chris Cornell Tribute Concert

Remember the music of the late Chris Cornell, former lead vocalist for influential bands Soundgarden and Audioslave, at this commemorative concert that benefits local suicide prevention charities. Seattle-based tribute band Rusty Chains will be joined San Francisco Pearl Jam tribute band Corduroy for a touching night of alt-rock classics. June 30 at Slim's

Hotline: Indie Dance Party

Nine venerable party powerhouses are combining forces this weekend for a massive indie rock and pop dance party at DNA Lounge. A dozen talented DJs from Fringe, Last Night, Harder Better Faster Stronger and more mentors of hustle will be rotating throughout the club playing Justice, The Strokes, LCD Soundsystem, MGMT… if it was on heavy rotation in your college dorm, expect to hear it tonight. Get glittered by a pro and hit the photo booth early, before you sweat your face off. June 30 at DNA Lounge

First Caturday

Photograph: Courtesy First Caturday

SATURDAY 

Burger Boogaloo

Venerably debaucherous cult-film director John Waters hosts this annual ode to rock ‘n roll. The bill is always chock full of Burger Records’ finest — this year boasts Shannon and the Clams, Nobunny, Redd Kross and more — and attracts big timers like Iggy Pop and the Buzzcocks. Find the action in Oakland’s Mosswood Park (enter at W MacArthur Boulevard between Webster and Broadway). July 1-2, location TBD

SF Oysterfest

Well shucks, it’s OysterFest season again already. This casual festival is something of a hidden secret, drawing big name performers to Golden Gate Park under the auspices of a food and beer fair. Beyond the amazing grub and annual Shuck and Suck Competition, Kongos, Sir Sly and Passion Pit (the act behind remix-friendly “Sleepyhead”) are set to perform. July 1 at Golden Gate Park 

First Caturday at Dolores Park

This event is either genius or a recipe for disaster. It all depends on your cattitude. Since 2014, folks have been bringing feline friends to Dolores Park, so they can finally see what’s been going on Saturdays while they sit at home watching birds. Whether kitty digs a leash, stroller or the reassuring confines of a carrier, all are welcome to meet up near the playground for a day of fresh air, cat-naps and meeting new friends. July 1 at Dolores Park 

Fillmore Jazz Festival

Spend the weekend outside mingling with neighbors in the heart of San Francisco at the Fillmore Jazz Festival. Craft vendors, wonderful food booths, some legit libations and of course, incredible jazz will take over the neighborhood on both Saturday and Sunday. Up to 100,000 people are expected to descend on Fillmore Street between Jackson and Eddy — plan ahead! July 1-2, various locations 

Miike Snow + Phantogram

Überpopular Miike Snow is an electropop trio out of Sweden comprised of high-profile production duo Bloodshy and Avant with musician-composer Andrew Wyatt. The group is on tour playing behind its third album: the springy, appropriately-titled iii. They are sharing the bill with Phantogram, the New York duo that melds taut hip-hop beats with shoegazing synths who you’ve heard in a hundred commercials. July 1 at the Greek Theater, Berkeley 

Non Stop Bhangra - Crash an Indian Wedding

Join the Non Stop Bhangra crew as they recreate the festive vibe of an Indian wedding, which you are invited to crash. The night kicks off on the street outside of Public Works with live music and a dance procession to the club. Once inside, newbies get a quick dance lesson ahead of a whole slew of performances culminating in an all-night dance party. Dress to impress! July 1-2 at Public Works 

Harry Potter trivia

Photograph: Courtesy Harry Potter Trivia

SUNDAY

Harry Potter Trivia 

You invested your heart and soul into reading all seven books, sat through all eight movies, and you have the tattoo and/or pet named Hedwig to prove it. Now what? It’s time to put that magical education to the test at Harry Potter Trivia night, hosted in the Hogwarts-like environs of the Swedish American Hall. Groups of two or more are welcome, as are Muggles. Get your tickets now; Sunday’s events were added after Saturday speedily sold out. July 2 at Swedish American Hall 

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