MARIA VICTORIA DRAN
Live bands, DJs, drag queens and fashionistas took over 2nd Street at the Downtown First Thursday celebration. Food trucks and local vendors line the sidewalks with everything from handmade goods to global flavors in a celebration of San Francisco’s vibrant spirit. Every first Thursday of the month from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., this free, all-ages street party transforms 2nd Street and its surrounding alleyways into a high-energy cultural playground.
From families with kids, students and tourists to longtime locals and office workers shaking off the 9-to-5, the event drew a diverse crowd. Whether it was dancing under the gigantic disco ball, sipping on a craft cocktail, getting competitive at ping-pong, chess or singing your heart out on Jessie Street’s karaoke, there was something for everyone. The music lineup, which included The SF Pride Band, DJ Tommy Echelon and Bob the Drag Queen kept attendees moving from the moment they arrived downtown.
Culture spilled into every corner of the event. Classic spots like Minna Gallery and SFMOMA gave free access to interactive art installations and DIY stations where attendees could flex their creativity with tote bag stamping and bracelet making. Every Downtown First Thursday (DFT) brings new artisans, vendors and experiences, making each visit unique. The April 3 edition featured an altar filled with marigolds and the iconic Mexican sugar skull, offering attendees a chance to emotionally connect by honoring their roots and lost loved ones. Danielle Revives, the organizer behind the Marigold Project, was excited to share this tradition of remembrance and healing with a broader audience at Downtown First Thursday. Operating mostly in the Mission District, this was their first time participating in DFT.
“My favorite part of the day has been the interaction,” Revives shared. “I’ve witnessed vulnerable and emotional moments, from young adults remembering their ancestors to parents and children writing notes for grandparents.” She was thrilled that her stand attracted people from all different demographics, bringing together a rich mix of backgrounds to share in this heartfelt experience.
Born out of a simple, powerful belief that joy can be a driving force for change, DFT has quickly become a beloved monthly ritual. The event was powered by the Civic Joy Fund — with support from Bob and Randi Fisher, Levi Strauss & Co.and Into The Streets .Events like DFT aim to fill San Francisco streets with music, laughter and love. Each beat that echoed down 2nd Street was an open invitation to the community to show up, support local artists and businesses, and take part in something bigger. DFT is about reimagining what downtown can be. It is not just a place to pass through, but a space where community, culture, and creativity collide.
One of the local artists who has been part of Downtown First Thursday since its debut in May 2024 is Will Pauley. Hailing from the Sunset District, Pauley and his partner started making candles a couple of years ago, a creative venture that reflects their artistic spirit. For Pauley, DFT isn’t just an opportunity to sell, it’s a chance to connect with the community.
“I like being part of the community, having people look at my art and enjoy it. It’s always good to see a smile on somebody’s face when they’re walking by the stand,” Pauley said, expressing the joy he feels seeing his creations bring happiness to others.
As a regular at DFT, Pauley appreciates how the event brings together people from all walks of life, creating an atmosphere where art and connection can thrive.
For many attendees, DFT is an opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture and vibrancy of San Francisco. Archeet Sahoo, an exchange student at USF, attended for the first time and couldn’t help but be energized by the experience. “My favorite part is getting to know better the SF culture,” he said, highlighting how DFT offers a unique glimpse into the city’s heartbeat.
Ingmar Orue, a tourist visiting San Francisco for the weekend, echoed similar sentiments. He loved the food, the music, and the chance to explore the SFMOMA for free before ending his night dancing in the karaoke alley. “What brought me here was the cultural phenomenon and getting to know the streets of San Francisco in a different light,” he said. “Being a tourist, I enjoyed feeling like a local for one night.” DFT is more than just a street party, it’s a celebration of community, culture and connection that brings together both locals and visitors.
The next Downtown First Thursday will be hosted May 1, 2025.
Editor-in-Chief: Jordan Premmer, Chief Copy Editor: Sophia McCrackin, Managing Editor: Jordan DelFiugo, Opinion Editor: Dakota Duran, Scene Editor: Elina Graham
