Free concert? Always awesome! Beautiful sunny weather? Even better! Freebies? I'm so there! Bubble machines? Me likey lots! Sugar Ray? Oh, the memories! Matt Nathanson? Cracked me up like no other! Hanging out with friends? Always fun! Major sunburns? Still hurting =( Love this concert! read more

See all

Free concert with Sara Bareilles + Ed Sheeran + Ginny Blackmore? How can you say no? However, with 15,000 people with the same mindset, things can get pretty crazy. Some info and advice for the event: *Plan to get there at least TWO hours early to be safe! Take into account traffic, walking distance, waiting in line. They stopped letting people in after 1pm ish? *Check the weather in advance and dress for it *Sunny weather: sunscreen, sunglasses, towel to sit down, water *Cold/rainy weather: umbrella, sunglasses (block the rain), rain jackets *Free giveaways such as chapsticks, sunscreen, and coconut water *Free massages since you're gonna be standing for a damn long time *Several food trucks and stands when you walk in! *Porta-potties on the left side, make sure you bring hand sanitizer! *Parking ideas: Try parking around Stow Park. It's free and it's just a 20 minute walk. You can also try UCSF or St. Mary's. Mark your car location with your phone because you might forget like I did! *Food/Drinks: If you want to be frugal, bring your own food/drinks. Water costs around $3, and the food trucks are pricey. *If you failed to come in on time, you can see/hear the concert just outside the gate! Just explore around the area. My friends and I arrived around 11:30am, and waited in a half-a-mile line for about 1.5 hours. Yes it's THAT long! It reached the CA Academy of Sciences, so be prepared to wait. Don't even bother trying to be an asshole and cut up in the front because the security will kick you out!!!! They DO a bag check, but all they really do it touch it.... not really check what's inside... We barely ate breakfast, so we decided to try several of the food trucks there, take advantage of the freebies, and tried to empty our bowels as much as possible before we dove into the massive crowd. By this time, it was about 1pm, so it was already really packed. We really wanted to be in the front, so we tried going there from the side. It made it easier to pass the crowds, and eventually, we were able to get a nice small spot towards the front. Before the major headliners were playing, some of my friends had to use the restroom, and we never saw them until the end. So make sure you empty your bowel, bring a bottle to pee in (i'm kidding), or just suck it up and hold it in. Overall, I really enjoyed the concert. The first band, Finish Ticket, was just okay. Ginny Blackmore has such a powerful and amazing voice, and she's the most adorable performer I've ever seen! Sara Bareilles actually sounds better live than in a recording... and I can't say that for a lot of people. Ed Sheeran was 2 hours late due to flight delays, so he did an acoustic version. He didn't talk much and performed a bit faster because of the time constraint, but he was still so good. He even broke a guitar string, and still sounded amazing. Totally worth the wait. One downside to being in the front is that you have to deal with the crazy fan-girls/boys, so brace yourself for that. Expect loud ear-piercing screams, a lot of shoving and pushing, awkward shouts of their love for them and how they want to have their babies. Thank you Alice's Summerthing for a wonderful event! read more

See all

Kelly Clarkson, Matt Nathanson, and Rachel Platten performed this year at Alice's Summerthing. My sister and I waited in line for 1.5 hours. Although we weren't first in line, we got a pretty good spot right near the front of the stage. A lot of people decided to sit on the hill located in the back. I almost didn't go because I heard there was pushing and shoving. In reality, that didn't happen at all. People were pretty respectful most of the time excect near the end when Kelly performed. A group of teenagers came out of nowhere and decided to stand right in front of my sister and me. That really annoyed us because we had a difficult time taking pictures. We didn't want to start a fight with them so we didn't say anything. Tip: Put sunblock on your neck in addition to your face. I forgot my neck and was badly burned! Bring a large blanket to reserve your "spot" so no one can jack your spot when the good people perform. read more

See all

Can't complain about a FREE concert at Golden Gate Park! Come early to get the seating of your choice... on the grass of course. Bring plenty of sunblock, blankets to sit on food and friends! And dogs are welcome! Parachute, Sugar Ray, Matt Nathanson, and Gavin Rossdale were the performers this year and they were great! See you next year! read more

See all

As everyone else states, "Get here early!" My girlfriend was able to score four VIP tickets to Alice's Summerthing 2014. On the tickets it states that they recommend parking in St Mary's Hospital's parking lot. So I get there 'round 1015 and notice a sign that says "No Event Parking." I drive on a little and rethink the parking (mind you, still in the middle of the street). I back up a few feet and pull into the driveway. At that moment there wasn't any security so I park and start my walk up to street level since I have absolutely no service on my cell phone and as I'm walking out, a car of four young girls pull up and a security guy asks them what they were there for. They dropped the bomb saying for Alice's Summerthing and the security guard was like NOPE! I'm walking away like... Holy shit! I'm lucky I got here early. I call my girlfriend and tell her what was going on at the parking garage... So she pulls in, gives the guard some bogus story of meeting her grandma or some shit and he allows her to park. I'm hiding behind a pillar and she's walking towards the main entrance to make her story believable and we're looking at each other like... How the fuck do we get outta here?!! We managed to sneak out (crisis averted) and were on our way to the park. Park was FILLED with people waiting inline to get in. We waited near the entrance for my friend's sister and her +1 and we noticed people cutting the line like it was nothing and getting in faster (wish I had balls to pull that shit off). Upon entrance, security checked all bags made people either finish their opened drinks or throw them away. I guess the rules were no food or drinks that are opened. However, if the containers or bags were still sealed, you were good to go. People brought their dogs and blankets. By the time the concert was about to starts, the hill if fucking full of people and more crammed up front. VIP had a little seating area with free food and drinks, so we rarely left the area. I noticed homeless people walking around trying to sell some shit and nearly harassing some young girl to buy ear rings, so be careful. OMG OMG OMG... There was this cop (pls don't tell my fiance)... FUCKING HOT. Tall, tanned, built... Oh My GOD!! All the woman was drooling over him (including me!) I tell you... I'd break every law for that man to shake me down... HAHA! So anyway, concert was a success. Wish they were more organized with parking... LOVED THE HOT COP. Oh yea... and the free music. read more

See all

Free concert? I'm down! The 2011 concert featured One Republic, Matt Nathanson, Parachute, Michelle Branch, and Andrew Allen. I was mostly here for Michelle Branch though. Brings back old memories. This event was somewhat of a nightmare for me. Trying to find parking was crazy and it didn't help that the gay parade was going on the same day. We ended up parking outside the park on Fullton and 15th. Then it was a 15 minute hike/walk to the area. Super crowded! There were just so many people. I think there could've been more organization. Just trying to walk around this place was horrible. Like if I wanted to get up and go pee or go grab a bit or check out some of the freebie booths. Ehh, I don't know if I'd go again. They would have to have someone spectacular. Definitely need to bring a blanket and more food next time. read more

What's not to love about a free concert in Golden Gate Park with awesome music artists?! I've been coming to Alice's Summerthing off and on since they first started, probably around a decade ago. I've always had a great time and have never had any problems getting in or with security when I come early or late. This year was so much fun and they had a fantastic lineup! Kelly Clarkson, Mat Kearny, Rachel Platten, and Elle King! They were all awesome performers!! One of the best years ever! There really is something fun for everyone...live music, food booths, food trucks, booths to win prizes, a tattoo lounge, photo booth station, and various businesses sampling out their products. This year they had Peet's coffee sampling their new javiva blend (like a frappucino) and KIND sampling new healthy snack bars. Also, you can spin the wheel and win prizes from Alice 97.3 and Metro PCS. Every year they have new booths from new sponsors. Regardless, it's a fantastic time for people of all ages. You are allowed to bring food, but there are some restrictions for coolers, glass bottles, cans, etc. Come early with a blanket or towel and snag a great spot on the lawn. It gets super crowded. Possible negatives - With so many people, the lines to order food or visit booths can get long. Also, with each performer, I only wish their set was longer. It seemed to go so quick! They were all such great performers that I didn't want it to end. Lastly, it can be really hard to find parking. It's always exciting when Alice 97.3 first announces the lineup for the year's concert. Every year, it's around the last Sunday in June in Sharon Meadows in Golden Gate Park, approximately 12pm-4:30pm. This is a great, relaxing, fun outdoor activity with awesome live music! So grateful that Alice 97.3 puts on this fantastic free concert for all us music lovers! read more

5 Stars for - FREE - One Republic - Matt Nathanson - Parachute - Michelle Branch - Andrew Allen - Nice Sunday in Golden Gate Park - Yummy food trucks 1 Star for - All the people who show up after the show started and expects to sit/stand in the front - Annoying people who tries to invade your blanket space - The portal potties are really far away read more

How is is possible for you to give any bad reviews for a FREE concert in the park. Even if you had to wait in line, it's still worth the entertainment and just spending time with friends. I come there almost every year, but this year there was actually a line, mainly for security, which you can't blame them with all the recent events in this world. Coming to this concert every year is like a gamble, you never know if you hit the jackpot and discover that it's actually going to be sunny. No matter what remember that the weather in sf changes instantly, so dress in layers. Thanks Alice for providing us with such great entertainment! read more

THE CONCERT WAS GREAT!!! I was pleasantly surprised with Kris Allen and how good he performed live... so much energy and what a voice for such a little dude... he also signed our Alice' Summerthing poster..... Any bids on this (+_~) Lifehous was great... I was hoping they'd play "Breathing", an old song ..... The only complaint is the Alice' staffs and security people who were blatantly rude and down-right authoritative... especially toward folks who are near by the vip lounge...... they kept shooing people out like sheep herding when they walked pass the barricage or stood too close to the barricage.... they were blocking so people wouldn't enter the vip area... I understand u have to do your job but u didn't have to be so nasty about it ...and yeahh... have you heard of of proper signage? They looked as if they're too good to be there... read more

Alice's Summerthing - Pre-concert shot - Performing Arts Near Me - San Francisco, California

See all

This is a pretty awesome event that I'll be looking forward to next year. Despite my apprehension of going to an outdoor concert when the sky is drearily gray and there's an icy breeze swirling about, I actually ended up having a great time. My friends and I carpooled up there from the South Bay, and we got there in time for the third group to perform. Once we set up our blankets and hunkered down with the rest of the masses already out on the field, the wind wasn't so bad. Most of us were there primarily for Lifehouse, who came on around 3:30pm and played for almost an hour. They were fantastic live. The event on the whole was well-organized, with plenty of junk food tents selling garlic fries, bbq, etc. They also had free rock-climbing and trapezing though the trapeze tickets were passed out quickly, and none of my friends got to try that out. (We'll just have to remember to sign up early next time!) Lots of people turned out for the event, so even if you're not so into the music, there's plenty of people-watching to be had. One quick tip - a lot of people edge towards the front to stand right up next to the stage so the people who had set up blankets close to the stage had to deal with a lot of foot traffic and views of people's legs. Not so pleasant. I highly recommend that you set your blanket further back so that you can enjoy your music in peace; or, if you really want to be close to the stage, join the people standing there. read more

ALICE'S SUMMERTHING IS THE BEST FREE CONCERT EVER!!! ... and fabulously warm weather in the city? What can beat that? We got in the park right before 10am to claim our spot and laid out our two blankets -- brought a cooler and snacks, kicked our shoes off and just enjoyed for the whole entire day. Kris Allen and Lifehouse were absolutely awesome! On a down note...the food vendor that sold the bbq pork shishkabobs...eh, totally not worth the $8 price tag each...meat was ridiculously hard and tough. What a waste of $. read more

So so crowded! The lines for the port-a-potties and food trucks were ridiculous. Meanwhile, there were at most 3 people in line for the toilets at Chipotle Cultivate. Only came for the second half of the festival. Ingrid was great! I really don't understand why she went on before MAGIC! Strange planning on Alice's part, considering MAGIC! hasnt even released an album yet. Like they literally just have that one song that everyone waited for. Wish the sets were longer than 30-40 minutes, but was glad the music ended at 3:55, so I could get over to watch the end of the USAvsPOR game. Thanks, I guess. read more

I have no complaints about Alice's Summerthing- I had a great time and thought it was great! We got there just after 1 p.m. and saw the tail end of Parachute perform, following them was Sugar Ray who was fantastic, what a crowd pleaser. The sun was shining and everyone there seemed to be in a great mood, enjoying the music. After Sugar Ray we had a lovely performance from Mathew and then Gavin- super! We brought a picnic lunch and a few beers, sat on our little "square" and left all of our cares at home. We stayed until the very last song- it was completely worth it- ha, it was FREE! I will surely be back next year- my suggestion to you all- take the bus! read more

Alice's Summerthing - Performing Arts Near Me - San Francisco, California

The only reason I found out about this free concert was by being bored on facebook. I live right across the street. Some publicity would be good, y'know? I don't listen to radio, so whoever you are, Alice, show your face around so I can hear you. We walked right in with the orderly crowd (which stayed orderly the whole time - amazing), past the trapeze "rides" and the Vitamin Water free massages. The temperature was perfect, with a nice breeze, although all that sun needed to be blocked. The music was great, although how weird to have folk-rock for the first three acts then Gavin Rossdale. As soon as he began singing "Breathe in, breathe out" you had to change gears back at least a decade or longer, to maybe when Kurt Cobain was still alive. He's energetic but I'd forgotten how guitar-y grunge was. Not sure what I think about it, still. Totally a fan now of Matt Nathanson, local hero, and Sugar Ray. Who knew that would happen? I was hoping Mark McGrath would play like two songs and go but he brought the energy and it was much more fun with him. He sort of can't sing on key all the time but he made up for it with enthusiasm. I've been singing his songs all day today. Honestly didn't expect that. read more

See all

Shun the nonbelievers if they say it was too crowded...clearly they have never been to a concert. EARLY ARRIVALS Use the portable toilets....otherwise bring a jar, water bottle, ziploc or some other creative method to hold your excretion because it's quite difficult getting out of the crowd if you're sitting in the middle / upfront. ***TIP: if you're on the side / upfront by the VIP tables, sneak into their section and use their bathroom because they get their own. Snag a horderve along the way too. *** If you're asian like me, ransack the freebies and stock up on your years worth supply of popchips, fruitsnacks, and mint water samples. 10:30am is enough time to find a small slice of real estate for 2-4 people up front. Anything more you must get there earlier! If you are sitting up front please do not cry about people standing. It will happen. The standing crowd grows as the concert progresses because no one likes receiving a face full of butt....so they stand in response....it becomes a huge chain reaction from less than 40 yards to the stage. LATE / ON TIME ARRIVALS Take the bus. Suck it up and understand you will have to do some massive swim moves to traverse the sea of people to get a decent seat. You will get mean glares for stepping on picnic blankets. Only want to come for the headliner? SHAME ON YOU. If the Concert starts at 12p, get there at 10:30am. Parking will be a painless 5 minute walk. If you aren't familiar with the area and you see a lot of cars or people walking with blankets, chairs, etc. find the closest space and park. Don't spend time trying to find where the entrance is and backtracking because I guarantee at least 15 more cars will have parked before you in that time. IT HAS NEVER RAINED DURING THIS EVENT. So slap on some sunscreen and even out that farmers tan. read more

1. Music 2. Free 3. Ingrid Michaelson Summerthing (sing to the tune of the way i am) If you were walking, then I would drive you. (if you were on my way) You need a seat? I'd find a mat (a pink blankie to be specific) Cuz I love, free concerts and being lazy. And you like free concerts too. Got kind of chilly, I brought my sweater. Your belly's empty? Here's almond butter... (nomnom!) Cuz I love, free concerts and being lazy. (forreals!) And you like free concerts too. There's a beer garden, how sober do you wanna be? "Totally sober," I do agree.. (been drinking all weekend!) And, I love, free concerts and being lazy And you like free concerts too.. Didn't stay long, but it was nice. Didn't see much either since we were way far in the back.. The beer garden had a lot of people standing, and so we found a patch of grass near the way back and just sat down. Missed Marie Digby, but I stood 10 ft away from her.. she's gorgeous!, Secondhand Serenade, and caught the end of The Last Goodnight. Got a little chilly right around the end of Ingrid Michaelson's set and didn't stay for Lifehouse, since I was hungry too. They were passing out almond butter packets.. yum.. tided me over for a little bit.. Overall, relaxing and fun.. so if the lineup is decent, I may stop by again next year. read more

Loved it! I lost my ticket for the trapeze thing so they wouldnt let me do it :( It was a good time though and they let doogies in too! read more

Maybe I'm getting too old... I remember summerthing when it was really fun. Now it seems like everyone is squashed in like a bunch of sardines. there are fewer and fewer food booths every year, and there are fewer and fewer vendors with things to look at / give away. One of my favorite things used to be going from booth to booth buying things, while listening to music. Each year they have slid farther and father down hill until this year, there were 2.. that's right 2 vendor booths, and some free sunscreen and prunes. the food totally not worth it either. nice music, fun vip area, but knowing what summerthing used to be, to what it is now, it's a dissapointment. read more

One of the reasons I love living in the city is because there's so much stuff going on at GG Park. Since I live right next to the park, I grabbed some food and walked on over to Summerthing. I'm just glad I don't have to deal with the parking mess. I went last year and enjoyed myself, although I am not a crazy Smashmouth fan. So when I heard about this year's lineup, I was so excited and surprised to hear some pretty popular artists were performing. I am a huge fan of Marie Digby, my favorite YouTube gal pal and Berkeley drop-out. But I listen to all the other groups there too, like Lifehouse, The Last Goodnight, Ingrid, Second Hand Serenade. For me, this concert was even better than last year's Now and Zen Fest. I would rather pay to watch these guys perform than go to Now and Zen and pay to watch B52s. Luckily this year I rushed toward the front of the stage to hear Marie Digby perform and then later on I got her album so she could sign and take pictures. It was so crowded on that lawn that I lost my blanket for awhile because someone crumbled it up and took my spot. Thanks. After I found it, I just had a chill day with the gang and tried my best to avoid the blanket next to ours macking all throughout the concert to keep warm I suppose. Whatever keeps you warm on a cold day I guess. I'm so glad I went this year. A very relaxing day in the park listening to great bands. I just don't know how they're going to top it next year. Thanks, Alice! read more

Oh the linesanity! The line for this event was craaaaaazy! Thankfully members of my crew were able to...umm... "shorten" our wait. (Don't hate we did what we had to do.) Anyway the 2013 line up for Summerthing was Finish Ticket, Ginny Blackmore, Sarah Bareilles and Ed Sheeran. I have to say every performer was absolutely awesome! Finish Ticket (from Alameda) reminded me a lot of Young The Giant, a band I absolutely love. Ginny Blackmore (from New Zealand) has a beautiful and powerful voice. The same can be said of Sarah Bareilles who is one of those rare voices that sounds studio quality even in the middle of a meadow in the rain! The real highlight was Ed Sheeran, who just barely made it to the the concert. He was worth waiting in the rain for. he had to perform acoustic because the rest of his equipment was still at the airport. He didn't talk to much because he really wanted the fans to hear as many songs as possible with the limited time he had. So awesome! He is so talented by the last song he was playing with a broken string and you couldn't tell the difference! Ed Sheeran is a total G! I don't know if I'll brave summerthing again but I am now a lifetime Ed Sheeran fan:) read more

I went to Alice's Summerthing this year for the first time...it's their third iteration but I hadn't heard of the annual concert before. I don't really listen to Alice 97.3 because I'm currently going through a mostly hip hop and trance phase, but I can always appreciate good rock/alternative music, especially live! Add in the fact that the concert is FREE to everyone and it's the perfect opportunity to picnic in the park, well, all signs point to yes. =) The concert was scheduled to start at noon but my friends advise going earlier to get a decent parking spot and stake out a place by the stage (they've perfected the routine, having attended the past two years). The good areas fill up quickly, so I highly recommend you arrive by 11am if you have more than four people in your group. We ended up having 11 friends join us, so it's a good thing we spread out all the blankets! Various food and vendor booths line the sides of the meadows and they even have a large trapeze setup. I didn't get to swing from any ropes, but I'm tempted to try flipping around in the air at the next concert. =P According to my friends, the arrangement of the stage, speakers, and seating space wasn't as good as the previous years. They had less open grass area to sit on, we were hard pressed to find trash cans, and they decided to put certain tents right in the middle of the field instead of just along the edges. My only real gripe was that the women's restroom was closed for some reason but the men's was open. While they did have portable toilets, there were only a handful which were located way up on the road with no location signs, so I had to wander around for a while to find them. As for the music, the lineup featured Missy Higgins, O.A.R. (Of A Revolution) and Cake. I never heard of Missy Higgins before, but I will definitely be keeping an eye (and ear) out for her in the future. She has a beautiful voice with a folksy rasp that adds a nice soulfulness to her songs. My favorite was her opener...a melancholy and haunting ballad which I still don't know the name of (am still googling!) but would love to add to my playlist. I had attended an O.A.R. concert before and as usual, enjoyed their music and energy. Cake finished the show with some offbeat fun songs that are their trademark. Sample lyrics from the song Comanche: "You need to straighten your posture and suck in your gut. You need to pull back your shoulders and tighten your butt." =D We ended up rolling out of the park around 6pm so if you want to enjoy the full concert ,expect to devote a whole day to the event as we were there for at least 7 - 8 hours. While you can buy food and beverages on site, I think it's more fun (and of course cheaper) to bring your own cooler/picnic basket full of goodies. Also, when it comes to clothing, make sure you layer, layer, layer! SF weather is notoriously unpredictable and despite it being a mid-June day, the sun never came out, it was frequently windy, and there was even some rain. But despite the damp chill, I had a blast and plan on returning every year! read more

Alice Summerthing was the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon! Everyone was relaxed and chilling out (literally) and just having a good time. I love that they allow dogs so we didn't have to leave our puggie at home. There was plenty of parking in the neighborhood past the Park - we parked on 28th past Cabrillo and then walked up 30th into the Park. The only bad thing that happened was this really loud guy sat down next to us right when Ingrid Michaelson came on and all I could hear was his booming voice over the one song I really wanted to hear. Usually the Korean evil eye works wonders in these situations but he was apparently immune to it. read more

I went last year when it was Hootie and the Blowfish. It was fun! Lots of different things to see with all the booths. The concert was good. There were 3 acts with Hootie being the main attraction. I use to love them back in the day and couldn't pass up seeing them for FREE! You can take your dogs and blankets and coolers. My only peeve would be those people with their blankets who sit to watch concerts. I hate it when people to it at Shoreline too. Are you there to watch a concert like you would TV?? Get up!!! Dance around...quit complaining about people getting up to dance. Last time I checked...a concert involves music...which involves DANCING...if you don't like it...YOU'RE OLD...stay home or find the senior citizens area!!!! read more

I was thinking that this was just going to be a dorky concert in the park. Well, I tell you what, it was pretty cool. With the beer garden good music and crowd, who could ask for more on a foggy day in Golden Gate Park? First off the concert was free, they had pretty big names up there like "The Last Goodnight" and "Lifehouse" among other including that sweater song girl "Ingrid Michelson". The sound was pretty good for an outside venue. When in the beer garden they charge you $7 for a beer, but the concert and most of the proceeds go to cancer research so its for a rockin' cause! When summer rolls around again next year, I will definitely go again! read more

Only in San Francisco at GGP would you have a concert like this. and best of yet....ITS FREE!! There was free popchips too! for samples, but we had ourselves like 3 bags. My friends and I, the genius we are, got gordo's and brought in a mini kegger of Spaten beer and some champagne. If only the weather was nicer, all this woulda been perfect! I see it now, 100 people gonna do the same next year. The line up was pretty awesome too. Tons of people had their blankets and stuff laid out and jus sat watching the artists perform like Secondhand Serenade, Marie Digby (btw, she's amazing), Ingrid Michaelson, and Lifehouse who played 2 of the best, "You and Me" and "First Time." I'm definitely gonna come back again next year for this. read more

I didn't think it was possible to get sunburned in SF. After Alice's Summerthing, i now know you have to apply sunscreen to every outdoor gig you go to, even if the weather is in the low 70s. All the other Yelpers can vouch for getting there early (which i strongly suggest) to get good lawn seats, but i'm going to tell advise you readers to BRING SUNSCREEN and pack a lunch to save money. A random lady also told my friend she couldn't bring her Nikon into Golden Gate, but if you shove your recording devices into the bottom of your backpack security honestly doesn't care. Magic!, Ingrid Michaelson, and Us were pretty amazing live, and i'll be sure to come again next year for great music and awesome company, all for free. read more

Loved Alice's Summerthing this year. I got there a little bit late but managed to get pretty close to the stage during Ingrid Michaelson and Magic's set. The only thing I didn't really enjoy was the lines to get alcohol/food. There weren't a lot of my favorite trucks there (ie: koja kitchen, senior sisig, blue Saigon, other Off the Grid trucks) so myself (and it seems as though a lot of others) settled for whatever was the shortest line, and yet we still managed waiting at least 30 minutes to get food. The experience was great though- the area, the music, the people were all great. But if you're like me....food is everything! read more

Alice's Summerthing - Performing Arts Near Me - San Francisco, California

This was ok for a free summer concert. I didn't know much of the music, just that one song about rogaine and the "Hanging By A moment song" by the headliner, Lifehouse. There was some fun looking things like trapeeze and a rock climbing wall, but the lines were enormous! We got some free snacks from whole foods and a sample of a mint mocha starbucks drink, that was pretty cool. If I'm in the city again next summer I'll probably go to this again. I'll get there earlier though so I can try the fun games and I'll also bundle up more, it gets cold! read more

I don't know if this concert is at Golden Gate Park every year, but this review is for the June 22, 2008 concert. I have to say the people performing aren't my favorite bands in the world with the exception of Marie Digby :D But seriously, what's to disappoint with: 1) 5 bands - Secondhand Serenade, Marie Digby, The Last Goodnight, Ingrid Michaelson, and Lifehouse (definitely the stars of the show) 2) Outside at Golden Gate Park 3) Picnic and Food 4) Hanging out with friends 5) And FREE If that doesn't entertain you, then you either: 1) Hate rock and pop bands 2) Scared of the outside world and rather play World of Warcraft 3) Have no friends 4) Or is only happy when when throwing money around The only problem I had was the weather that day, but you can never expect what the SF weather will be like. The place was packed, too, so get a spot early to avoid terrible parking and to be able to see the stage. Even after their performances, some of the artists were selling and signing their autographs for people. There were also food stands, beer gardens, a rock climbing wall, and a trapeze if you felt like living your Cirque du Soleil dreams. I had a fun time and would go again next year as long as Alice keeps this as a free event. read more

It only takes a few bad apples in the bunch to ruin the experience. There were some rangers that were taking their power authority way to far. Just think about the whole Standford Prison Experiment. Some people think they can do anything when they given a position of authority. Yesterday 9/26/2010, there was a Philippino ranger, thought he was the ruler of them all. I simply asked if they were allowing any new folks into the park and his answer was "no, because of full capacity." But the truth was that hundreds of people left at 4:15pm already. So I asked, "there looks like there's more space, and if its' possible at least let my two friends come in." He responded with a cockiness (that now I associate Alice 97.3 image with) saying, " if you keep talking and standing there, you might end up on this side of the fence." WOW! This is what ALICE 97.3 hired to represent them? Not only that, even some of the security women (butch and all) were not being so nice to other participants. For ALICE 97.3 -How do you expect to keep loyal listeners coming to spend money at your concerts, if you hire people who bash your name? IS this how you want to be seen to the public? Would you like to see reviews of how bad the experience was, because of your employees? Well too late, it will end up in the reviews and you already lost many loyal listeners yesterday. Sorry, but I don't think I will be coming back to this so call -FREE -to-be-harassed concert in the park. I rather go to Stern Grove (the other free concert) where I can bring my own alcohol and enjoy a great concert. read more

I love Summerthing. 2011 was rocking with One Republic, Matt Nathanson, Andrew Allen, Parachute and Michelle Branch. There were lots of vendors giving away free stuff (tote bags and pop chips and etc). 2012 was a bit off with its band selection. Adam Lambert as your headliner? horrible. I only recognized like 1-2 of his songs and the rest of the lineup was so-so with a couple one hit bands. Also, where were the free sponsor vendors? no where to be seen. They could also do a better job of setting up a only- Pedestrian pathway (across the park), where people could walk and not step on other people as they walk through feet, fingers, food and pets. so Alice, please bring back a major headliner for 2013. If you are short on a budget, I am sure the other 15,000 audience members and I would pay $5 each for Train or Rob Thomas/MB20. read more

A fun way to spend a weekend afternoon: - Fun. - Free. - Go concert crazy in the front or sit down and take it easy with a blanket and picnic basket in the back. - Lots of affordable but bad food to buy and consume. - Lots of free samples and exotic events (rock climbing, trapezing) to try. - One or two good bands (Lifehouse, Ingrid Michelson). A lot of other ones you haven't heard of. - Good Alice music between acts to fill in the gaps. - SF is cold. Bring a jacket. read more

One Republic, Matt Nathanson, Michelle Branch, and Parachute! Sounded like a pretty awesome lineup for a relaxing Sunday afternoon in the park, so I made plans with a friend to meet up. Getting to the park wasn't a problem for me since I came from the area by CCSF, but my friend had a heck of a time getting from her place by AT&T Park to GG Park. It was just bad timing that Pride happened the same weekend as this concert because everyone I talked to had trouble getting to the park! I arrived at around 11:30am and the crowds had already set up camp. I made a quick stop to the port-a-potties since there wasn't a line. Once I came out though, the temporary sinks weren't working! Luckily, there was a demo booth for some new organic soap products or something. I didn't pay much attention, but I had a place to wash my hands and I got a free sample while I was at it. There were a few food trucks set up that I've heard of (Seuol on Wheels) and a couple other food booths (It's-It). There were also places giving out freebies like Mott's Apple Juice and some water with added electrolytes (great to rehydrate from the night before!). They gave out those cheap drawstring backpacks and samples. There was also a truck from the Monterey Bay Aquarium that had an interactive thing where you could control a diver on the large screen from your smart phone (pretty cool!). If you won, they had some pretty neat prizes. There was also a 21+ zone if you wanted to purchase alcohol. Seating was hard to find and after wandering up to the front to no avail, I went back about 3/4 of the way to the end and plopped down near the edge. By the time my friend made her way over, I was about 5 people away from the edge because the crowd had expanded. We couldn't really see anything, but there were speakers set up so everyone could hear the live music. All the artists were really good, and to be honest, when I'm that far away, I tend to treat it like background music. I enjoyed the ambiance and the sunshine as I played catch-up with my friend. We tried to get food a couple hours into the concert, but the lines had just doubled from when I originally got there and we decided it wasn't worth it. Instead, we munched on some samples of prunes and PopChips. My friend had to leave before One Republic and I wanted to beat the crowd, so we headed out at about 3pm. I love free events like this and I think it was pretty well organized. I would suggest more bathrooms and more food vendors though since it seemed like the lines were really long all the time. read more

Alice's Summerthing - 06.26.11 - Performing Arts Near Me - San Francisco, California

Came for the 2010 incarnation with this lineup: Thriving Ivory, One eskimO, Kris Allen, and Lifehouse. Arrived 10am-ish, took a spot to sit and chill, front row stuff was probably pretty full by then. I was totally fine with staying back, but it really made it impossible to see anything later. No biggie. The music was great, and the atmosphere was fun. It is hot. Bring a blanket to sit on. Grab an eight-dollar sandwich. Soak up the sun (but remember your sunscreen). Sit back and enjoy. read more

Alice always has great artists come and perform. I went last year solely for Ed Sheeran - even though he was running really late and it started to rain, it was WELL WORTH IT. This year....Magic!, Kodaline, Us the Duo, and Ingrid Michaelson performed - all of whom I am a bigggg fan - and it was so freaking awesome! Tip: Get there at least 2 hours early to wait in line. It gets really LONG. And if you don't plan on standing all day, bring a picnic blanket! Also, avoid driving. It's super easy getting there (Sharon Meadow in Golden Gate Park) via public transportation and it saves you the headache of looking for parking. read more

It was like a return to the 90's with bands Sugar Ray and Gaffen Rossdale headlining the show, which was awesome since I grew up listening to a lot of their music. The total event was great- a lot to do and I was pleasantly surprised (since it was a free show) at the lack of bums, hippies, and other smelly at the concert. Maybe they were all in a corner with each other, but I didn't see anyone matching that description the whole day. I will admit that the show was less a concert and more just a giant social party. There were some there for the music, but most were there to sit in the sun and have a good time. During the show mulitiple times, each singer commented about the lack of singing along with their songs- but most understood it was a free show and people weren't that interested in the music. But without a doubt, a great was had by many (including me) and looking forward to another Alice's Summerthing in the park in the future. read more

A free concert with widely known artists in Golden Gate Park is a great way to spend a summery Sunday afternoon with friends. The 2011 concert featured Andrew Allen, Parachute, Michelle Branch, Matt Nathanson, and OneRepublic. The music was great and the sound system carried the music very well. No matter where you were, you could hear, even in the porta-potties haha. In between each act, Alice 97.3 played songs. They played the same songs over and over, but thankfully I liked them. There were also a few vendors giving out free samples: Pop Chips, Mott's, some tequila mixer, etc. Come very early if you want to claim a decent spot. I'd recommend 45-60 mins before it starts. Also, WEAR SUNSCREEN. There is absolutely no shade at all in Speedway Meadow. I'd also recommend bringing a picnic lunch and snacks. It's fun just to relax, eat, and hang out with friends while listening to the music. There are some vendors selling food, but I didn't see them.....I just saw the long line of hundreds of people, yikes! Unfortunately, the thing about large gatherings of human beings (15,000 people is what they kept saying during the 2011 concert) is that there is a high concentration of rude, annoying, inconsiderate people as well. People walk all over your blankets and latecomers try to cram in to get better spots than they deserve. The most annoying to me is the people who brought sun tents and those super tall camping chairs. Completely blocked views and the event website specifically forbids them! I wish people had made them take those stupid tents down. read more

I was at Sharon Meadow, Golden Gate Park for the Alice's "Summerthing" Free Concert at the Park June 23, 2013 Sunday. Performers: Ed Sheeran Sara Bareilles Ginny Blackmore Note: The crappy weather(despite it was June) was not reason I gave this place 3 stars. I still had fun despite the constant sprinkle of rain hitting me for 5 hours+. Got in line 11:45a.m. when the concert was suppose to start at noon. The line's end was the front entrance to the National Academy of Sciences. I had no idea there would be so many people. This was my first time. Wait time in line 2 hours - I stuck it out. While waiting we passed 2 hot dog tents. (Hot dogs were rather salty). Finally getting to the fenced area, they checked your bags. To the right were very few vendors that sold everything from Garlic Fries to opening a loan account with a bank to a free massage. To the left were porta-potties lined up. Everywhere had a line. There was an upper grass area to set your tarp/seat down, but the stage was rather far away. Squeezed my way in to as close as I could to the stage. Ended up stuck there for 4 hours. Performers were great, and made the work just to be here worth it. The last act was very late because of his flight. (Yes I stuck it out). He was quickly rushed and my friends and I wonder if there was a time limit as to how long Alice 97.3 can hold this area free. The area was indeed big enough to hold all those who came. This park is definitely near Lincoln and 9th. There is a huge playground for kids and a carousel. It is near the Botanic gardens, and just walking distance to the National Academy of Sciences and De Young. A walk aways in the opposite direction, there is a baseball field. The 3 stars is given because pretty much what else Sharon Meadows used for other than to hold this kind of concert. read more

Had an amazing time! Loved all of the artists, especially One Republic. Just one thing would have made it better, bathrooms on either end of the grounds. Aside from that we had a wonderful afternoon at the concert. Thanks Alice! read more