Along with such impressive art exhibits, we've got a colorful array of music, theater and nightlife events for your discriminating palette.
ARTS
(Click here for listings of LGBTQ movies, TV series, podcasts and community organizations.)
DANCE, OPERA, THEATER
Anything Goes @ Gateway Theatre
42nd Street Moon's production of the classic Cole Porter musical comedy set on an ocean liner. $35. 23-March 12. 215 Jackson St. https://42ndstmoon.org/anything-goes/
BABA: The Life and Death of Stana @ Z Space
Kitka Women's Vocal Ensemble performs composer-director Karmina Silec new opera about Balkan sworn virgins (women who live as men after taking vows of chastity and celibacy). Feb. 23—26, Thu-Sat. 8pm. Sun 2pm. Z Space, 450 Florida St. $25-$125 www.zspace.org/BABA (Read our article.)
Between the Sheets @ Phoenix Theater
Left Coast Theatre Co.'s production of 'An anthology on the Sexual Revolution,' six shorts plays by different writers about LGBTQ characters in different personal situations. $20-$60. Feb. 17—March 4, 8pm. 414 Mason St. https://lctc-sf.org/
Black Choreographers Festival
19th annual festival of African American-created dances. Feb. 25 & 26, 7:30pm at Dance Mission Theater, 3316 24th St. $10-$30. https://www.bcfhereandnow.com/
Cashed Out @ SF Playhouse
World premiere of Native American Claude Jackson, Jr.'s play about three generations of women living on the Gila River Indian Community Reservation in Arizona. $15-$100; thru Feb. 25. 450 Post St. https://www.sfplayhouse.org (Read our interview with cast member Chingwe Padraig Sullivan.)
Choreography Showcase @ Smuin Center for Dance
Company dancers present new works; also live-streamed. $35-$55. Feb. 22-26. 1830 17th St. https://www.smuinballet.org/
Clyde's @ Berkeley Repertory Theatre
Nominated for the 2022 Tony Award for Best Play! Two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage's feel-good comic drama is about the formerly incarcerated kitchen staff at a truck-stop sandwich shop who attempt to rebuild their lives. $26-$93; thru Feb. 26. 2025 Addison St. https://www.berkeleyrep.org/ (Read our review.)
Concept Series 29 @ Green Room
New dances by RAWdance and guest artists Johnny Huy Nguyen, Audrey Johnson, Jess Bozzo, Jordan Wanderer + Mary Carbonara, and Chingchi Yu. Feb. 17, 8pm; 18 at 3pm & 7pm. War Memorial & Performing Arts Center, 401 Van Ness Ave. https://rawdance.org
Dance Lovers 11 @ Joe Goode Annex
James Graham Dance Theatre presents the 11th annual concerts of duets by couples, crushes and comrades. $25-$$5. Feb. 16, 17, 18, 8pm. 401 Alabama St. http://jamesgrahamdancetheatre.com/dancelovers/dance-lovers/
Dance Mission Theater
Dance and performance space; also classes in many forms. KAMBARA + Dancers presents IKKAI means once: a transplanted pilgrimage, Feb. 15, 12pm; Feb 17 at 8pm. Winter Choreographer's Showcase, Feb. 18, 8pm & 19, 7pm ($15-$20). 3316 24th St. https://dancemissiontheater.org/
Dear Evan Hansen @ Orpheum Theatre
Touring company of the six Tonys-winning musical about a shy teenager who uses a classmate's death to gain popularity. $67-$169; thru Feb. 19. 1192 Market St. https://broadwaysf.com/
Dear San Francisco @ Club Fugazi
The 'high-flying love story' weaves local history with acrobatic theatrics and live music by The 7 Fingers company, now with new cast members, and a full food and beverage menu, celebrated its one-year residency; extended run. $35-$99. 678 Green St. https://www.clubfugazisf.com/
Getting There @ New Conservatory Theatre Center
World premiere of Dipika Guha's commissioned play about five women in Paris and how their lives suddenly entangle. Wed. night Parisian piano mini-concerts with Suzanne 'Kitten on the Keys' Ramsey. $21-$56; thru Feb. 26, Wed-Sat. 8pm, Sun. 2pm. 25 Van Ness Ave., lower level. (Read our interview with the playwright.) https://www.nctcsf.org
A Guide for the Homesick @ Theatre Rhino
Ken Urban's taut two-person play explores the emotions and remorse of two travelers abroad. $12.50-$25. Feb. 23-March 19. 4229 18th St. https://www.therhino.org
The Headlands @ Toni Rembe Theater
American Conservatory Theatre's production of Christopher Chen's drama, set in the Marin Headlands, about a young man searching for clues about his father's mysterious death. $25-$110; thru March 5. 415 Geary St. https://www.act-sf.org/
Hump Film Festival @ Victoria Theatre
Dan Savage's annual diverse sexuality film festival cums, er, comes to town. $25; thru Feb. 18. 2961 16th St. https://www.humpfilmfest.com/
Justice: A New Musical @ Marin Theatre Company
Playwright in Residence Lauren M. Gunderson and composer/lyricist duo, Bree Lowdermilk and Kait Kerrigan's musical play about the Supreme Court's first three women; Sandra Day O'Connor, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Sonia Sotomayor. $25-$65. Feb. 16-March 12. 397 Miller Ave., Mill Valley. http://www.marintheatre.org/ (Read our interview with composer Bree Lowdermilk and lyricist Kait Kerrigan.)
Little Shop of Horrors @ 6th Street Playhouse, Santa Rosa
The hit Off-Broadway musical by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman about a carnivorous alien plant gets another local production. $29-$43; thru Feb. 19. 52 W. 6th St. https://6thstreetplayhouse.com/
Lockdown Comedy
Lisa Geduldig hosts the online gigglefest, with comedians Jason Stuart, Kate Willett, Myq Kaplan and Lisa's mom, Arline. $15-$25. Feb. 16, 7pm. https://www.koshercomedy.com/
Mark Morris Dance Group @ Zellerbach Hall
The acclaimed choreographer returns with his new work, 'The Look of Love: An Evening of Dance to the Music of Burt Bacharach.' $36-$135. Feb. 17 &18 at 8pm. Feb. 19 at 3pm. Bancroft Way at Dana St., UC Berkeley campus. calperformances.org
Mean Girls @ Golden Gate Theater
Touring company of Tina Fey, Jeff Richmond and Nell Benjamin's hit musical is based on Fey's screenplay about a teen girl and her new school frenemies. $66.50-$174.50; thru Feb. 26. 1 Taylor St. at Market. https://www.broadwaysf.com/
Mostly British Film Festival @ Vogue Theatre
15th annual festival of mostly Britain-set (plus Ireland, Australia, India and more) films; thru Feb. 16. 3290 Sacramento St. https://mostlybritish.org/ (Read our feature article.)
Picasso at the Lapin Agile @ Bus Barn Theater, Los Altos
Los Altos Stage Company's production of Steve Martin's erudite play about Pablo Picasso and Albert Einstein's imagined conversations on art and life. $20-$40; thru Feb. 19. 97 Hillview Ave. https://losaltosstage.org/
San Francisco Ballet @ War Memorial Opera House
The company performs Helgi Tomasson's version of the classic ballet about a peasant girl driven to madness, set to the Adolphe Adam score. $29-$455. Feb. 24-March 5. 301 Van Ness Ave. www.sfballet.org
Six the Musical @ Orpheum Theatre
The vibrant pop-inspired Tony-winning musical about the six wives of Henry VIII, who tell and sing their version of Tudor history. $70-$262. Feb. 21-March 19. 1192 Market St. https://www.broadwaysf.com
Sketch 12: On-Demand
Watch choreographer Amy Seiwert's dance 'Tides' Feb. 15-March 1. Donations. www.eventbrite.com
Solo Shows @ The Marsh
New and return engagements with acclaimed local storyteller/performers. Brian Copeland's 'Grandma & Me: an Ode to Single Parents,' thru Feb. 25, then March 4-April 29. 1062 Valencia St. At The Marsh Berkeley: Dan Hoyle's 'Talk to Your People,' thru March 11 (Fri. 7pm & Sat. 5pm). Don Reed's 'The Never Too Late Show,' thru Feb. 19. Unique Derique's 'Fool La La Gift,' Feb. 19-March 12. 2120 Allston Way, Berkeley ($10-$35). www.themarsh.org
Up For Air! @ Stage Werx
Four nights of madcap physical theater with Mime Songs, The Miss American Dream Show, Words from a Cuban Father, Mingalaba, and The Great Garbolski. $25. Feb. 17 & 18, March 3 & 4. 446 Valencia St. www.eventbrite.com
Within These Walls @ Zellerbach Playhouse, Berkeley
Lenora Lee Dance's award-winning mutlimedia dance-performance work inspired by the resilience of Chinese Americans incarcerated on Angel Island during WWII is restaged by UC Berkeley students. $10-$18. Feb. 23-26. 2413 Bancroft Way, UC Berkeley campus. https://tdps.berkeley.edu/
Who's Your Mami Comedy @ Brava Cabaret
Marga Gomez, Chelsea Bearse and Carla Clay do stand-up, with host Riley Manlapaz. Feb. 16, 7:30pm. 2781 24th St. www.brava.org
LITERARY/LECTURES
Bettina Aptheker @ Bound Together Anarchist Bookstore
UC Santa Cruz Distinguished Professor Emerita, in a reading from and discussion about her new book, Communists In Closets: Queering the History 1930s-1990s, which explores the history of Gay, Lesbian and non-heterosexual people in the Communist Party in the United States, including such figures as Harry Hay, Lorraine Hansberry and Eleanor Flexnor, Feb. 17, 7pm. 1369 Haight St. http://boundtogether.org/
Creating Change Conference @ Hilton Union Square
National LGBTQ Task Force's annual gathering of activists and community leaders. $185-$600. Feb 17-21. 333 O'Farrell St. https://www.thetaskforce.org/creatingchange/
LGBT Events @ Fabulosa Books
Author readings, in-store and online monthly book club group discussion of literary works. 489 Castro St. https://www.fabulosabooks.com/
No Straight Lines: The Rise of Queer Comics @ PBS
The fascinating documentary about the history of LGBTQ comics, based on the award-winning book. https://www.pbs.org/independentlens/documentaries/no-straight-lines/
Queer Words
Listen to online literary chats hosted by author Wayne Goodman, with guests Kelliane Parker, Brian Broome, Michael Nava, Vi Khi Nao, Anne Shade, Brontez Purnell, Christopher Castellani, the late Leslie Cohen and many others. https://queerwords.org/
SF Public Library
Online and in-person author events. Feb. 21, 6pm, 3rd floor: Zinething, an LGBTQ zine-making meetup hosted by SF Zinefest. Feb. 15, 5pm: 'Celebration: Drumbeats, Heartbeats: Communities as One,' a music concert celebrating Black History Month and Lunar New Year. Also, check out books and DVDs, see various book-themed exhibits. 100 Larkin St. www.sfpl.org
Unspeakable Vice Walking Tour
San Francisco Historical Society's newest walking tour, Unspeakable Vice, zig zags by more than a dozen lost San Francisco queer bars in the city's original gayborhood, North Beach; led by Shawn Sprocket. $10-$30. Feb. 18, 11am-12:30pm. www.sfhistory.org
MUSIC
Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center
International music and dance concerts at the East Bay venue celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special schedule of concerts. 1317 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. https://www.ashkenaz.com/
Cal Performances @ UC Berkeley
Music and dance concerts and more. Zellerbach Hall, Bancroft Way at Dana St., Berkeley. calperformances.org
Claybourne Elder @ Peju's Calmére Estate, Napa; Feinstein's, SF
The Broadway and TV actor-singer ('Company,' 'The Gilded Age') performs his new cabaret concert, 'If the Stars Were Mine.' Feb. 19, 3pm. $95 includes wine tasting. Peju's Calmére Estate, 2750 Las Amigas Rd, Napa. www.broadwayandvine.org Feb. 22, 8pm. $65. Feinstein's at the Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 663-1063 www.feinsteinssf.com (Read our interview with Elder.)
Feinstein's at the Nikko
The upscale nightclub presents cabaret concerts. Feb. 17 & 18, 8pm: two-time Tony winner Jennifer Simard, $60. Feb. 22, 8pm: Claybourne Elder ($65). Feb. 23-25, Evan+Zane with Evan Rachel Wood ('Westworld') and Zane Carney, $99. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. https://www.feinsteinssf.com/
Freight & Salvage
Music venue presents folk, rock, blues musicians and more. 2020 Addison St, Berkeley. https://thefreight.org/
Great American Music Hall
Enjoy live music at the classic venue. 859 O'Farrell St. https://gamh.com/
The Lost Church
Intimate music and theater venue presents local and touring performers in a variety of styles. 988 Columbus Ave. https://thelostchurch.org/
Noe Music
In-person and online concerts in many genres; classical, folk, early music. 1021 Sanchez St. https://www.noemusic.org/
Noise Pop Festival
Citywide festival of music and arts, including queer metal band Commando, Feb. 21 at Bottom of the Hill. Feb. 16-26. http://schedule.noisepopfest.com/
Noontime Concerts @ Old Saint Mary's Cathedral
Enjoy concerts in a variety of genres, Tuesdays at 12:30pm. 660 California St. www.noontimeconcerts.org
Old First Concerts
Enjoy in-person, live-streamed and archived music concerts of classic, and contemporary music. 1751 Sacramento St. https://www.oldfirstconcerts.org
Philharmonia Baroque
Feb. 16 & 17: 'Sessions,' Davóne Tines and conductor David Belkovski explore their personal connections to the music and art they make through the lenses of gender, race and sexuality; at ODC Theater, 3153 17th St. https://philharmonia.org
Queer Vibes @ SF Center
LGBT musicians perform a variety of genres; in-person shows return. Feb. 10, 6pm: Lovey's music dance and DJed grooves performance, 'Copacetic Lovers.' www.eventbrite.com
San Francisco Performances @ Herbst Theatre
Chamber music, classical, vocal concerts and recitals. Feb, 21-23: Catalyst Quartet with pianist Anne-Mrie McDermott and cellist Marcy Rosen. $45-$65. 401 Van Ness Ave. http://sfperformances.org/
San Francisco Symphony @ Davies Symphony Hall
In-person and online concerts. 201 Van Ness Ave. http://www.sfsymphony.org/
SF Jazz
The acclaimed venue brings their concert series online with talented musicians, and has returned to in-person concerts. 201 Franklin St. https://www.sfjazz.org
Sweetwater Music Hall, Mill Valley
Intimate restaurant, nightclub and music venue presents all kinds of music, in the historical Masonic Lodge; 9 Corte Madera Ave. https://sweetwatermusichall.com/
Yoshi's
The elegant nightclub-restaurant features jazz and R&B musicians. 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland. https://yoshis.com
MUSEUMS & GALLERIES
111 Minna Gallery
Downtown gallery exhibits vibrant contemporary artworks. New: Seventh Son Tattoo presents 'Year of the Tiger,' a group exhibition of stunning contemporary tiger-themed art; thru March 23. 111 Minna St. 111minnagallery.com
Acion Latina
Community organization sponsors events, and hosts exhibits in its gallery. 2958 24th St. https://accionlatina.org/en/
Angelic/Trimble Gallery
Unusual art exhibits; 1275 Minnesota St. https://www.anglimtrimble.com/
Arion Press Gallery
Print and design art exhibits. 1802 Hayes St., The Presidio. https://gershoni.com/culture/dyslexic-dictionary
ArtHaus
Gallerists James Bacchi and Annette Schutz showcase multiple visual artists. 228 Townsend St. http://www.arthaus-sf.com/main-gallery/
Art Visit
Meet with visual artists in your area at their studios. https://artvisit.org
Art Works Downtown, San Rafael
Exhibits of works by local artists. 1325 4th St., San Rafael. http://artworksdowntown.org/
Asian Art Museum
'Into View: Bernice Bing,' 20 works by the contemporary artist, thru June 26. (Read our feature article.) 'Color Trip: Yoshida Hodaka's Modern Prints,' thru May 1. 'Bearing Witness: Selected Works by Chiura Obata,' thru Feb. 27. Fri-Mon 10am-5pm. Thu. 1pm-8pm. 200 Larkin St. asianart.org
Berkeley Art Center
Diverse arts exhibits. 1275 Walnut St., Berkeley. https://www.berkeleyartcenter.org
Berkeley Art Museum/Pacific Film Archive
'Endless Knot: Struggle and Healing in the Buddhist World,' thru June 11. 'Amalia Mesa-Bains: Archaeology of Memory.' 'Quilts, Blankets, and Tapestry: Contemporary Art and Textiles,' 'Ron Nagle: Handsome Drifter, Folk and Modern Art in Postcolonial India' and art films streamed online and screened outdoors. 2155 Center St., Berkeley. www.bampfa.org
Black Pride & Joy @ Commune, Oakland
Oakland Black Pride presents a queer pop-up cinema and photographic exhibition, with art, vendors, products and services booths; drinks and snacks on sale. $12-$22. Feb 24; sixth annual Black Joy Parade on Feb. 25. 6pm-12am. 1716 Broadway. https://www.oaklandblackpride.org/events
Cacophonies of Resistance @ Worth Ryder Art Gallery, Berkeley
Exhibition of works and performances by MFA students. 116 Anthropology and Art Practice Building, UC Berkeley. https://art.berkeley.edu/gallery
California Academy of Sciences
The fascinating science museum includes live creatures (aquarium, terrarium) and educational exhibits. 'Bugs,' a fascinating giant-plants-scale insect-view exhibit. 'Wander Woods,' an outdoor kids and families play space. Also, 'Living Worlds,' a planetarium show. Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm. Sun 11am-5pm. 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. https://www.calacademy.org/
California institute of Integral Studies
Art and culture center hosts classes, workshops, exhibits. 'Karla Diaz: While You Were Sleeping,' thru Feb 24. 1453 Mission St. http://www.artsatciis.org/
Cartoon Art Museum
Feb. 18, 2pm: 'The Disney Revolt' author Jake S. Friedman. Feb. 19, 2pm: Ajuan Mance discusses her new book, 'Living While Black' with Hodari Davis (free). 'An Edward Gorey Menagerie,' Feb. 20-July 9. Melissa Pagluica's art, part of the Emerging Artist Showcase; also, 'Yay Comics!: Hilo, Phoebe and Her Unicorn, and Friends,' thru Feb 20. Ongoing: 'The Batman Armory.' Open daily (except Wed.) 11am-5pm. 781 Beach St. www.cartoonart.org
Catharine Clark Gallery
'Sobremesa,' a group exhibition thru March 18. 248 Utah St. https://cclarkgallery.com/
Chabot Space & Science Center
Programs include live science programs each Wed., 10:30am, virtual telescope viewings each Sat. 9pm. Free/$15. 10000 Skyline Blvd, Oakland (opens in Nov.). chabotspace.org
Chinese Cultural Center
Exhibition of new work by Bay Area-based contemporary ceramic artist Cathy Lu. 750 Kearny St. https://www.cccsf.us/
Conservatory of Flowers
Beautiful indoor and outdoor floral exhibits in the classic arboretum; special events and parties, too. 100 JFK Drive, Golden Gate Park. Free/$12. www.conservatoryofflowers.org
Contemporary Jewish Museum
'Gillian Laub: Family Matters,' an exhibit of her family portraits. 'Cara Levine: To Survive I Need You to Survive,' Feb. 16—July 30. 'L'chaim: Celebrating Our Building at 15,' Feb. 16—June 9, 2024. Free/$16. 736 Mission St. thecjm.org
David Ireland House
Home converted into an intimate gallery of unusual art projects by the later artist and designer; also, Ann Hamilton's 'here, there, then, now,' a mixed media homage to Ireland's work. 500 Capp St. https://500cappstreet.org/
de Young Museum
'Lhola Amira: Facing the Future.' The Obama portraits by Kehinde Wiley; 'Nampeyo and the Sikyatki Revival,' thru Feb. Collections of American, African, Oceanic, costume arts, sculpture and more. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive. deyoung.famsf.org
Entwined @ Golden Gate Park
The popular outdoor light installation returns, with special events, thru March 12. Peacock Meadow, 240 JFK Drive. https://sanfranciscoparksalliance.org/projects/entwined/
Exhibits @ SF Public Library
Book displays at the James C. Hormel LGBTQIA Center, 3rd floor. Also, book exhibits on the 6th floor. 100 Larkin St. https://sfpl.org/
Exploratorium Events
'Glow,' and exhibit of light-focused installations, thru Jan. 29. Also, talks and demos with a science theme, including comet-cam and more; weekly After Dark nighttime parties have returned. Pier 15. www.exploratorium.edu
Gallery Wendi Norris
Contemporary artists' works; María Magdalena Campos-Pons' solo exhibition, 'Finding Balance,' thru April 29. 436 Jackson St. https://www.gallerywendinorris.com
GLBT History Museum
'Out in the World: Ireland's LGBTQ+ Diaspora.' Online exhibits include 'Stories of Our Movement: Bay Area Reporter at 50.' Also, 'Legendary: African American LGBTQ Past Meets Present, Fighting Back,' a series that brings together community leaders, experts, historians and activists to explore lessons from the past that might be useful in formulating resistance efforts today; 'Reigning Queens: the Lost Photos of Roz Joseph,' curated by Joseph Plaster; and other exhibits. Online events as well. 4127 18th St. www.glbthistory.org
Gregangelo Museum
Take tours at the 27-room mansion filled with eccentric unusual interactive artworks and performances. www.gregangelomuseum.com
Gray Area
Unusual and contemporary art exhibits and installations. 2665 Mission St. https://grayarea.org/
Harvey Milk Photo Center
View exhibits of masterful photographic art; also online galleries. 'Women in Color' by Margot Hartford; thru March 18. 50 Scott St. https://www.harveymilkphotocenter.org/
Headlands Center for the Arts
40th anniversary exhibits include 'Process + Place,' Mark Thompson's 'Semaphore,' a striking installation at the scenic arts center (paired with Ann Hamilton's 'here, there, then, now' at 500 Capp St.) 944 Simmonds Road, Sausalito. https://www.headlands.org/
Jenkins Johnson Gallery
Contemporary art exhibits. 1275 Minnesota St. https://www.jenkinsjohnsongallery.com
Land's End @ Former Cliff House
Group exhibit of artists' varied works where their charge is twofold: to discover artwork in unlikely places and to consider the planet's health. 1090 Point Lobos Ave. https://www.for-site.org
Legion of Honor
New: 'Sargent and Spain,' an expansive exhibit of the painter's works created during his Spanish residency, thru May 14. (Read our feature on the exhibition.) Also, 'Michelle Erickson: Wild Porcelain,' thru April 2, and 'Paperworks: Fifteen Years of Acquisitions, thru June 25. European and ancient art, giant Renaissance landscapes and historic paintings, plus classical sculptures and contemporary works, from Degas, Manet, Caillebotte and Vuillard to Egyptian, Greek and Roman artifacts; also, Wangechi Mutu's fascinating modern outdoor and indoor sculptures. Tue-Sun, 9:30am-5:15pm. Free/$15. 100 34th Ave, Lincoln Park. legionofhonor.famsf.org
Letterform Archive
'Strikethrough: Typographic Messages,' an exhibit of varies protest movement posters and graphics by Emory Douglas, Favianna Rodriguez, Jenny Holzer, W.E.B Dubois, ACT UP, Amos Kennedy, Jr., Corita Kent, Atelier Populaire, Guerrilla Girls, Ben Shahn and others. 2325 3rd St. https://letterformarchive.org/
Lost Art Salon
Intimate gallery exhibits small and unusual works of note by contemporary and early 20th-century artists. 245 S. Van Ness. #303. https://lostartsalon.com
MAG Galleries
New art gallery presents its first exhibit, "Squint: Recent Photography by Chris Komater," pixilated portraits. Artists talk Feb. 25, 4pm. Exhibit thru March 26. 3931 18th St.
Manna Gallery
'Flux,' Elaine Maute's exhibit of paintings. Also, Orlando Smith retrospective. 473 25th St., Oakland. https://www.mannagallery.com/
Minnesota Street Art Project
Multiple galleries -Nancy Toomey Fine Art, Municipal Bonds, The Jones Institute and more- host different artist exhibits. 1275 Minnesota St. https://minnesotastreetproject.com/
Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts
Exhibits of art by Latino artists, plus events. Also, 'Afrolatinidad en la Bahia de San Francisco' and Javier Perez' 'Heart-Speak: Dichos de Mi Padre,' both thru March 4. $5. 2869 Mission St. missionculturalcenter.org
Museum of the African Diaspora
Exhibits include 'The New Black Vanguard: Photography Between Art and Fashion,' thru March 5; also, award-winning films, talks and music performances focusing on Black artists in multiple media. Through February, Black History Month panels, lectures and film screenings. 685 Mission St. www.moadsf.org
Museum of Craft & Design
'Bull.Miletic: Proxistant Vision,' an innovative, art and technology research project that explores the impact of new aerial imaging technologies and their influence and power in everyday life; thru March 19. $8-$10. 2589 3rd St. www.sfmcd.org
Napa Lighted Art Festival
Colorful nighttime art installations, projections and sculptures at locations around Napa; thru Feb. 19, Mon-Thu 6pm-9pm. Fri-Sun, 6pm10pm. https://donapa.com/lighted-art-festival/
NIAD Exhibits
The art studio for developmentally disabled adults shares in-person online exhibits and sells beautiful works of art; in-person window displays and weekly online exhibitions. www.niadartstore.org
Oakland Museum
'Angela Davis: Seize the Time,' an exhibit examining the image, influence, and activism of the Oakland-based icon; thru June 11. 'Black Power' and 'Dorothea Lange: Photography as Activism,' both ongoing. Friday night interactive displays and live music. 1000 Oak St., Oakland. museumca.org
Ordinary People @ Art Kiosk, Redwood City
Artist Peter Moen's installation of 50+ portraits of LGBTQ subjects; thru March 12. 2208 Broadway St. www.redwoodcity.org
The Pink and Purple Church in the Castro
Online multimedia exhibit documenting the history of Metropolitan Community Church, its LGBTQ-inclusive services and outreach through the AIDS pandemic. http://arspgallery.com/mccsf-exhibit-main/
Pleasure as Art @ Good Vibrations
Dafne Blade's sculptural window display installation made out of 100 decommissioned Magic Wand vibrators. 899 Mission St. https://www.goodvibes.com
The Power of Creativity and Community @ City Hall Gallery
SFAC Galleries partners with Art With Elders for a group exhibition of works by diverse senior artists; thru Aug. 25. Ground Floor and North Light Court, 1 Dr Carlton B Goodlett Place. https://sfartscommission.org/
Pride and Progress
The Victory Fund's online exhibit showcases a timeline of LGBT political history. https://www.prideandprogress.org/
Queer Arts Featured
New LGBTQ-owned pop-up gallery set in the former site of Harvey Milk's camera shop. 575 Castro St. Donate to their emergency rent hike fundraiser. www.queerartsfeatured.com
Queering the Crip, Cripping the Queer
Online version of a new group exhibit at Berlin's Schedules Museum that explores the multiple historical, cultural, and political intersections of queerness and disability. https://queer-crip.schwulesmuseum.de/en/
Robert Koch Gallery
Contemporary artists exhibits. 49 Geary St. https://kochgallery.com/
Root Division
Gallery hosts exhibits, classes, artist studios and events. 'The Ritual of Myth Making: Reclaim,' a celebration of indigenous culture. Elizabeth Jimenez Montelongo's indigenous dancer-inspired 'The Euphoric Dance of the Unconquered Mind'; both thru March 20. 1131 Mission St. https://rootdivision.org/
San Francisco Historical Society Museum
Ongoing and new exhibits, and historian talks, of fascinating local history. Thu-Sat 10am-4pm. 608 Commercial St. https://www.sfhistory.org/
Schlomer Haus Gallery
New Castro/Duboce gay-owned art gallery; Colin J. Radcliffe's 'Love Spoiled,' cute sexy ceramic figurative sculptures. 2128 Market St. Tue-Sat 12pm to 6pm and by appointment. https://schlomerhaus.com/
SF Botanical Garden
Beautiful spacious gardens with multiple plants, trees and flowers. Free entry for SF residents; others $3-$10. 1199 9th Ave., Golden Gate Park. https://www.sfbg.org
SF Museum of Modern Art
New: SECCA Art Award exhibition, with new works by Binta Ayofemi, Maria A. Guzmán Capron, Cathy Lu, Marcel Pardo Ariza, and Gregory Rick. 'Joan Brown,' a retrospective of paintings and sculptures by the SF artist, thru March 12. 'Shifting the Silence,' a group exhibit of 32 women artists, and 'Speculative Portraits,' an exploration of portraiture and identity. Diego Rivera's massive 1940 mural 'Pan American Unity' on display during its restoration. Joan Mitchell retrospective' 'Constellations: Photographs in Dialogue,' and Pop, Abstract, and Figurative art collections. Free/$25; reserved, timed ticketing. Mon 10am-5pm. Thu 1pm-8pm. Fri-Sun 10am-5pm. First Thursdays free. 151 Third St. www.sfmoma.org
SOMArts Cultural Center
Various art exhibits and events. 934 Brannan St. www.somarts.org
Southern Exposure
Unusual art and installations and online projects. 3030 20th St. https://soex.org
Stitching Communities and the AIDS Memorial Quilt @ Thacher Gallery
Exhibit of panels from The AIDS Memorial Quilt, which stands as an enduring monument to love, loss, and the power of art to bring communities together; thru Feb. 17. 2130 Fulton St. USF campus. https://www.usfca.edu/thacher-gallery
Telematic
Gallery focusing on innovative experimental works in video and electronic media; Carla Gannis' 'Virtues and Vices: Voices from the wwwunderkammer (Feb. 23-April 1). Saturdays, 1pm-6pm or by appointment. 323 10th St. https://www.tttelematiccc.com
Tenderloin Museum
New and permanent exhibits of neighborhood history. 'Legends of San Francisco,' an exhibit of 81 drag performer portraits by Harry James Hanson, Deb Leal, and floral designs by Devin Antheus; thru April 1. Also, 'Education for Action: California Labor School, 1942-1957.' thru July 1. 398 Eddy St. http://www.tenderloinmuseum.org/
Tunnel Tops @ Presidio
New outdoor beautifully landscaped area with scenic views, recreation, ranger talks, murals, and visiting food trucks. www.presidiotunneltops.gov
Walt Disney Family Museum
Located in The Presidio, the museum dedicated to the art of Disney films hosts online and in-person exhibits, classes and events. 104 Montgomery St. www.waltdisney.org
We Were There
Online tours of art museums, showcasing hidden and overlooked LGBT themes, subjects and artists. http://wewerethere.org/
Worker
Online exhibit showcases photos and historic paintings of sex workers by 19 artists, from the late 19th Century of Edouard Manet and Henri De Toulouse-Lautrec to modern day contemporaries such as Felix Gonzalez-Torres, David Hockney, Nan Goldin, Bruce LaBruce and Margie Schnibbe. NSFW. www.artreporttoday.com
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
Unusual modern art exhibits; also, film screenings, murals, and tours. Lobby art: Taravat Talepasand's 'Peace in the Middle East.' Also, 'Brett Cook & Liz Lerman: Reflection & Action,' a video, dance and multimedia installation, thru June 4. Alex Strada and Tali Keren's 'Proposal for a 28th Amendment? Is it Possible to Amend an Unequal System?' thru March 19. 701 Mission St. https://ybca.org
NIGHTLIFE
440 Castro
Friendly neighborhood bar has ample outdoor seating, and indoor drink specials, Monday underwear parties and two bars. 440 Castro St. http://www.the440.com/
The Academy
LGBTQ social club offers membership, plus public events; art exhibits, music, community talks, wine-tastings and more. Feb. 23: Celebrating Black Voices with Christopher Renfro of The Two Eighty Project, and selections from Fog Crest Vineyard in Sebastopol, co-owned by Rosalind Manoogian, one of Sonoma County's noted African American wine professionals. 2166 Market St. www.academy-sf.com
After Dark @ Exploratorium
Evening cocktail parties at the interactive science museum, with different themes; Thursdays 6pm-10pm. Pier 15 (Embarcadero at Green St.) https://www.exploratorium.edu/
Asia SF
Dining, nightlife and classy drag performers mix at the popular SoMa club; dinner shows from $59-$79. 201 9th St. https://asiasf.com/
Aunt Charlie's Lounge
The intimate bar serves strong drinks and hosts frequent drag shows. 133 Turk St.
Beaux
Popular Market Street club, with drag entertainers, gogo studs, drinks and food. Shangri-La second Saturdays. Latin Divas Live 4th Saturdays, You/nique 3rd Saturdays. Big Top Sundays and Friday Manimal with studly gogos. Drag brunch Sat & Sun, 2pm & 4pm. Pan Dulce Wednesdays, and weekly 'Drag Race' viewings. 2344 Market St. https://www.beauxsf.com/
Blackbird
Classy Duboce area bar known for its artisanal cocktails. 2124 Market St. https://www.blackbirdbar.com/
Bong-O Bingo @ Moe Greens Dispensary
DJ Dank's hilarious queer monthly fun game night with drag, DJed grooves, and cannabis prizes. $15/$10 min. purchase. Feb. 21, 6pm. 1276 Market St. https://moegreens.com
The Cafe
Popular Castro nightclub with a dance floor and lounge areas, two bars, drag shows and gogo dancers on select nights; Picante Latin night on Thursdays. 2369 Market St. https://cafesf.com/
The Cinch
Historic bar in the Polk district. 1723 Polk St. http://www.cinchsf.com/
Club 1220
Walnut Creek's gay bar, with drag shows, karaoke and dance nights. 1220 Pine St., Walnut Creek. https://club1220.com/
Club OMG
Intimate mid-Market nightclub includes DJed dancing, drag shows and a karaoke night. 43 6th St. http://www.clubomgsf.com/
Coronation 55 @ Hyatt Regency
SF Imperial Council presents the annual gala coronation of the new Empress and Emperor. $70. Feb. 25, 5pm-11pm. 50 3rd St. (other events Feb. 19-26) www.sfimperialcouncil.org
Creating Change Happy Hour @ LGBT Asylum Project
The Center for Immigrant Protection welcomes attendees of the Creating Change conference and interested guests for an informal informative gathering with drinks and snacks. Feb. 17, 6pm-8pm.526 Castro St. Free/RSVP at www.eventbrite.com
Curio
Rexy hosts 12pm & 2pm drag brunch shows with Kylie Minono, Kipper Snacks, Bionka Simone and other talents. 775 Valencia St. https://www.curiobarsf.com/
Detour
Castro bar and restaurant with pinball and arcade games; drag bingo Wed. nights. 2200 Market St. https://www.detoursf.com/
Dirty Habit, Hotel Zelos
Hotel's fifth-floor bar/restaurant hosts themed nights, plus Tuesday night street food and other rooftop events. 12 4th St. www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com
DNA Lounge
SoMa nightclub hosts many queer-friendly events. 475 11th St. https://www.dnalounge.com/
The Edge
Musical Wednesdays, the weekly Monster Show, Beards & Booze and other events have returned to the popular bar. 4149 18th St. www.edgesf.com
The EndUp
Historic SoMa nightclub hosts straight, gay and whatever late-night dance events. 401 6th St. https://theendupsf.com/
Eros
SF's queer sex club in a new location (site of the historic Bulldog Baths), open daily at 2pm to 10pm-12am; memberships available. 18+ only. $10-$30. 132 Turk St. www.erossf.com
Fireside Lounge, Alameda
Woman-owned LGBT-friendly bar with live shows, outdoor lounge, cool cocktails. 1453 Webster St. https://www.thefiresidelounge.com/
Golden Bull, Oakland
LGBT-friendly bar presents diverse live music acts; Queeraoke on 2nd and 4th Sundays at 7pm. 412 14th St. https://goldenbullbar.com/
Hi Tops
Popular sports bar with multiple TV screens, events, and an irresistible snack menu. 2247 Market St. https://www.hitopsbar.com/hi-tops-sf
The Hole in the Wall Saloon
Local rock DJs like Don Baird play at the SoMa 'friendly neighborhood gay biker bar.' 1369 Folsom St. https://blackwolfmetal.com/ Also, listen online: https://www.twitch.tv/donbaird
Jolene's
SoMa queer and woman/trans-owned nightclub and restaurant; Coyote Queer, second Saturdays, with DJs Koslov & Livv, costume contest. Queer Karaoke Thursdays; UHaul SF, Fridays. Sunday brunch drag show 11am-5pm. 2700 16th St. http://jolenessf.com/index.html
Last Call
Small, neighborhood bar with a fireplace and old school jukebox. 3988 18th St. https://www.thelastcallbar.com/
Lookout
Castro bar with a panoramic view. Bounce (Sat. nights), Lips & Lashes Drag Brunch with host Carnie Asada (Sat. afternoons), Jock (Sunday nights). 3600 16th St. http://www.lookoutsf.com/
Lone Star Saloon
DJed events at the historic bear bar, plus regular nights of rock music and patio hangouts. 1354 Harrison St. https://www.lonestarsf.com/
Lyon & Swan
New gay-owned North Beach supper club with a diverse array of live cabaret acts; vocalists, jazz bands and comedy acts; also specialty cocktails and meals (closed Tue/Wed). 124 Columbus Ave. https://www.lyonandswan.com/
Martuni's
The intimate martini bar hosts music cabaret acts. Pianist Russell Deason hosts the fun weekly Monday Happy Hour open mic gathering. On last Sundays, 7pm, singer Carly Ozard hosts a monthly concert series (Read our interview), 5:30pm-8:30pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market.
Midnight Sun
The popular bar celebrates 50 years; Timeline Tuesdays, Honeypot Fridays with gogo studs; Galaxy Saturday nights with DJ Lu; K-Pop and drag shows like Munro's at Midnight, 10pm Monday nights. plus Thursday Media Noche, and more. 4067 18th St. https://www.midnightsunsf.com/ (Read our interview with Media Noche host Betty Fresas.)
Milk SF
Queer cafe in the Mission offers coffee, pastries, food, local drag shows. Sober Karaoke on 4th Wednesdays, 6pm-9:30pm. 302 Valencia St. https://www.milk-sf.com/
The Mix
Castro bar with pool table, jukebox, popular patio. 4086 18th St.
Moby Dick
Popular neighborhood bar known for its colorful aquarium and tasty drinks celebrates 40 years. 4049 18th St. https://www.facebook.com/MobyDickBar/
Muevelo @ Que Rico, Oakland
Enjoy the new nightclub's weekly dance party with DJed grooves, drag divas, and gogo studs. Fridays, $10 and up, 9:30pm-3am. 381 15th St., Oakland. www.quericonightclub.com
Oasis
The multiple award-winning nightclub's shows include: Feb. 16-March 4, 7pm: Matthew Martin and more in Michael Phillis' wacky drag parody, 'The Hand That Rocks the Crawford,' $25-$50. Feb. 17, 10pm-2am: Asheq, The Middle East North African LGBTQ+ Dance Party, $20. Feb. 24, 10pm: Hella Tight's Tove Lo tribute night. New: Oasis Tea Dance with D'Arcy Drollinger, Yves St. Croissant and Per Sia, 4pm-8pm Sundays. Also, Princess, the weekly Saturday night drag show, 10pm-2am. Reparations, the Fridays all-Black drag show, 10pm-2am; Legacy, a trans women artistry night, Thursdays, 10pm-2am. Karaoke & Cocktails with Emma Peel, Tuesdays, 7pm-11pm. 398 11th St. www.sfoasis.com
Palm City Dreams @ W San Francisco
Femme House, a women and LGBTQ tech nonprofit, hosts a silent disco in the stylish hotel's Living Room Bar, with DJs Barbs and Mini Bear. Feb. 18, 8pm-11pm. 181 3rd St. Free/RSVP at www.eventbrite.com
Pilsner Inn
Historic neighborhood bar (since 1980) with an easy vibe, pool table, an excellent beer selection, and a spacious back patio. 225 Church St. http://www.pilsnerinn.com/
Polyglamorous @ Public Works
8-year anniversary of the super-groovy dance party, with DJs Holographic, Shaun J. Wright, Jen DM and residents. $15-$20. Feb. 19, 161 Erie St. www.eventbrite.com
Port Bar, Oakland
Ongoing: Shake It Up Saturdays and Juicy (also Saturdays); Women's night Sundays; Wednesdays are a Drag shows at 9pm, 10pm & 11pm; Big Gay Trivia with Jeremy Jones on Tuesdays; Thursdays, Karaoke Star hosted by Amoura Teese; also weekend drag brunch. 2023 Broadway. www.portbaroakland.com|
Powerhouse Bar
Popular cruisy SoMa bar; Underwear Thursdays; Juanita MORE's Powerblouse (fun drag makeovers) 1st Saturdays, Glamamore's Pillows drag show on Mondays; and Beat Pig, 3rd Saturdays. 1347 Folsom St. https://www.powerhousebar.com/
Que Rico
LGBT Latinx nightclub features cute gogo guys and fun drag shows, DJed dance floor, brunch and dinner menus, too. 381 15th St., Oakland. www.quericonightclub.com
El Rio
The popular bar with a spacious outdoor patio hosts multiple LGBTQ events, including Hard French; Daytime Realness, Mango, live bands, comedy and more. 3158 Mission St. https://www.elriosf.com/
Rize SF @ Origin
New LGBTQ dance party with K-Pop and other styles, DJ DNZA, drag performer Miss Shu Mai; first and third Saturdays. Free/$250. 1538 Fillmore St. www.simpletix.com
Roller Disco @ Church of 8 Wheels
Roller-skating nights with groovy tunes, plus skate rentals. $5-$15. 554 Fillmore St. http://www.churchof8wheels.com/
SF Eagle
The famed leather bar has numerous events. Feb. 19, 7pm-2am: DJ Bus Station John's Disco Daddy's Chaka Khan night ($10). BLUF Cigar Buddies 2nd Fridays; monthly Lair with host Suppository Spelling; Frolic cosplay/furry party, 2nd Saturdays, 8pm-2am, $8-$12. Sunday beverage bust, 3pm-7pm, $10-$15. (http://frolicparty.com/) 398 12th St. https://thesfeagle.com/
Steamworks Berkeley
The award-winning bathhouse hosts special events, DJed nights, and a cruisy vibe. $5-$200 (6-month membership). 18+ only. Open 24/7 every day. 2107 4th St., Berkeley. https://www.steamworksbaths.com/berkeleyhome
Suavecito @ Space 550
Valentino Presents and Club Papi present a weekly Latin dance night with DJs Mike, Mr. Biggs, and Lola; Sonora Tropicana band, drag acts, gogo guys, three dance rooms, outdoor lounge. Saturdays, $15-$25. 9:30pm-3am. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.suavecitosf.com
Sundance Saloon @ Space 550
The (mostly) Country music line-dancing, two-stepping nights (Sundays and Thursdays) has returned. $5, 5pm-10:30pm. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.sundancesaloon.org
Toad Hall
Spacious Castro bar with a small dance floor and back patio. 4146 18th St.
Trax
Historic Haight gay bar (since 1940!) serves up cheap and strong drinks. 1437 Haight St. http://traxbarsf.com/
Twin Peaks
Enjoy a great view and strong drinks at the historic tavern, now in its 50th year. 401 Castro St. https://www.twinpeakstavern.com/
Underground SF
Reopened and renovated intimate Lower Haight nightclub hosts varied DJed events, including LGBTQ nights like Hella Tight; also a cafe by day. 424 Haight St. https://undergroundsf.com/
White Horse Bar
Enjoy outdoor dining and drinks at the famous Oakland bar; monthly music nights, 7:30pm. 6551 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. whitehorsebar.com
Wild Side West
Historic lesbian and friends bar in Bernal Heights with an airy backyard garden (stairs). 424 Cortland Ave. https://www.wildsidewest.com/
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