Oktoberfest to be SF's first "entertainment zone" event
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The scene from Oktoberfest on Front in 2022. Photo: Courtesy of Oktoberfest on Front
Oktoberfest on Front will be San Francisco's first event to take advantage of "entertainment zone" legislation allowing businesses to sell alcoholic drinks to-go during special events.
Why it matters: The entertainment zones are part of the city's efforts to make downtown San Francisco a place to be again while supporting small businesses and economic development.
Driving the news: City officials and community organizations announced on Thursday three businesses — Schroeder's, Harrington's Bar & Grill and Royal Exchange — will be allowed to sell booze to go at Oktoberfest on Front in September.
- Oktoberfest will be bigger than before, featuring live music, beer chugging, ax throwing and other German-inspired activities.
- Roads in the entertainment zone on Front Street between California and Sacramento streets will be closed to vehicles to encourage foot traffic.
What they're saying: The event is an opportunity to show the city and state "just how rad these zones can be and how good music, good vibes and old-fashioned good times can help our beloved downtown San Francisco surge back in full, magnificent glory," Ben Bleimen, managing partner of Harrington's operator Tonic Nightlife Group, said in a statement.
Context: The entertainment zone was made possible by state Sen. Scott Wiener's Senate Bill 76, which went into effect this year.
- The legislation permits bars, restaurants, wineries and breweries to sell alcohol to go for consumption in special event zones and during other sanctioned times.
- It "paves the way for a nightlife renaissance in San Francisco's Downtown and neighborhoods citywide," Mayor London Breed said in a press release.
By the numbers: San Francisco's downtown visitor activity dropped over 21% between March 2023 and this past February, according to researchers at the University of Toronto's School of Cities.
What's next: Oktoberfest is Sept. 20 from 2-10pm.
- Meanwhile, the city is also exploring entertainment zones in Union Square, Mid-Market and Thrive City at the Chase Center.