Gay new years eve san francisco

Historical Essay

by Amanda Harbrecht

San Francisco is known as an key center for LGBTQ rights. A significant but often overlooked event in the history of this movement is the New Year’s Ball and subsequent police raid. This event brought attention to the police discrimination against homosexuals, it challenged the imagined and experienced landscape of homosexuals at the time, and it represented the beginning of new political influence exercised by homosexuals.

Photo by San Francisco Examiner photographer Ray “Scotty” Morris, January 1,

Photo: GLBT Historical Society of Northern California

The mid-to-lates represented an important time for the LGBTQ community. As part of an effort to identify and distinguish historically important sites for the LGBT movement, the National Park Service compiled an interactive route of sites that may qualify for national landmark status.

Historic sites associated with LGBTQ experience in San Francisco.

Google Maps

Red tags indicate sites that are already on the National Register of Historic Places, which primarily inc

Ah, New Year’s Eve.

That magical moment of the year when we get to leave the past behind and start afresh—or at least say we will (and slip up by January 2nd)! You either love it or loathe it.

It’s an excuse to celebrate big, indulge in glittery chaos, and maybe sip on prosecco under the stars (or disco lights). But let’s confront it: NYE also comes with its own challenges—everything’s pricier, weather can be brutal (in some places), and last-minute plans can lead to chaos.

This year, why not plan ahead and make your NYE one for the books? Whether you’re snuggling up as a couple, flying solo and ready to mingle, or partying with a group of fabulous friends, we’ve curated destinations that match every vibe—without the unnecessary drama. (Because honestly, isn’t life dramatic enough?)

From sunny escapes where you can ditch the winter layers to electrifying city parties with enough LGBTQ+ sparkle to clear up the new year, these 15 destinations hold got you covered. Whether you want to move until dawn, toast to new beginnings, or simply enjoy a memorable meal under twinkling ligh

SF Bay Area NYE events&#; Tuesday, December 31st

CHEF MELISSA KING’S LUNAR Brand-new YEAR CELEBRATION

Queer the recent year with celebrity chef and TV personality Melissa King, the Top Chef: All-Stars winner and fan favorite, as she reimagines the Lunar New Year with a mouthwatering feast and an event that champions the queer Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Sweet and savory creations will tantalize every palate.

As DJ LIVV spins an electrifying soundtrack, the Grand Hall transforms into a vibrant playground of celebration and show. Traditional lion dancers weave through the crowd in a flurry of hue and rhythm, while flamboyant queen Tila Pia instructions the party with wit and glamour. Pole painter Yoko Taketani’s gravity-defying moves captivate, and Ronnie Reddick’s dazzling "I'm Every Woman," featuring The Ladies of AsiaSF , brings the house down. With thrilling entertainment at every twist, this three-hour celebration is the party of the Lunar New Year—don’t long for your chance to savor, celebrate, and get lucky!

This event is a general admission party for 21+ only. ID will be checked. Drinks available for purc