Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
FESTIVALS AND PARADES
1. ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE
With its large Irish population, not to mention the 25 or so Irish pubs scattered
around town, the St. Patrick's Day Parade and the revelry that follows deep into the
night is one of the city's largest celebrations. The parade journeys from 2nd and Mar-
ket streets to the Civic Center.
Sat or Sun before Mar 17
2. CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
Japantown
comes spectacularly to life when the cherry trees blossom. Traditional arts
and crafts,
taiko
drumming, martial arts demonstrations, and dancing, as well as de-
licious Japanese food make this one of the city's favorite celebrations. There's also a
colorful and impressive parade.
Two weekends in Apr
3. CINCO DE MAYO
Commemorating the defeat of the French army at Puebla, Mexico, in 1862, by General
Ignacio Zaragoza, this is one of the Latino community's biggest annual festivals, fea-
turing parades, fireworks, music, and dancing. In addition to the Civic Center, much
of the fun happens in the Mission District.
Sat or Sun before May 5
4. CARNAVAL
Having nothing at all to do with Lent or any other traditional date, San Francisco's
Carnaval is staged at the time of year when the weather will most likely be at its best
for the glittery event. Groups work all year long, with the help of municipal grants, to
create their dazzling costumes and put together their infectiously rhythmic routines,
all to a samba, rumba, or salsa beat.
Mission District • Last weekend in May
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