It took no time at all for 501Fest to win over locals, and its fifth year is set to be even bigger and better. Today the fest has grown to two days, May 8-9, and has moved from the streets of SoMa to the River Market.
The festival was born out of 501 Day on May 1, first held in 2021 to mark a “light at the end of the tunnel” of the pandemic and dedicated to supporting and celebrating all things local within the 501 area code. Each year, citizens, businesses and organizations are all encouraged to take part and show their pride through themed activities, public art displays and shopping local.
501Fest built on that premise by not only offering a day of family fun, but intentionally offering opportunities for small businesses and positioning itself as a place “where culture meets commerce.”
The 2026 festival promises more music, art and activities over two days, with more details to be announced in the coming weeks. Friday night features a kickoff event with the hit Slappetizer Culinary Competition, music and community engagement. On Saturday, attendees can expect even more live entertainment, lots of local vendors, art, food trucks, drinks, a kids’ zone and much more.
Proceeds from the event go back into the community and help support Creators’ Village, “uplifting artists and creators while addressing social and emotional needs in low socioeconomic communities.”
Learn more on the 501Fest website, and follow along on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
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