San Francisco’s Entertainment Zones are areas where bars, restaurants, wineries, and breweries can sell alcoholic drinks to-go during certain hours. People can enjoy their drinks outdoors in plazas, sidewalks, or streets during special events. These zones support local businesses and bring fun events directly into neighborhoods across the city. If you’re interested in setting up an entertainment zone in your city, check out the SF.GOV website for more information.

Front Street Entertainment Zone

California’s first entertainment zone is on Front Street next to iconic bars like Harrington’s, Shroeder’s, and Royal Exchange. The businesses along the entertainment zone are allowed to sell alcoholic beverages for outdoor consumption on the street. The first events in 2024 included Oktoberfest, Nightmare on Front Street, and Glow on Front.

Arena Entertainment Zone

The Arena entertainment zone is a designated area of Thrive City (an 11-acre community gathering space surrounding Chase Center). You can enjoy alcoholic drinks from establishments like Che Fico Pizzeria, Harmonic Brewing, Gott’s Roadside, and Miller & Lux during special events.

Castro Upper Market Entertainment Zone

This upcoming entertainment zone is the fourth officially established in the city. Businesses here are allowed to sell to-go alcoholic beverages during special events. The entertainment zone runs down Market street from Castro to Church Street. Additionally, sections of Castro street and 18th street are closed off. Events must be approved by the San Francisco Office of Economic Workforce Development and Castro Merchants Association.

Night Markets and Events

Entertainment zones are the perfect place to host night markets around the city. Here’s a list of popular night markets around San Francisco.

• Fort Mason Center Night Market
• Sunset Night Market
• Chinatown Night Market
• Castro Night Market
• First Thursdays on Front Street

Proposed Entertainment Zones

• Valencia Street
• Pier 39
• Ellis Street (between Stockton and Powell)
• Folsom Street (between Seventh and Eighth street)
• Yerba Buena Lane (Between Market and Mission)
• Jessie Square
• Harlan Place & Mark Lane Entertainment Zone
• Cole Valley Entertainment Zone
• Mid Market Entertainment Zone