Hardly Strictly Bluegrass is a one of a kind annual free music festival that takes place in iconic Golden Gate Park to the delight of over half a million fans.  This three day, multi stage event features an array of eclectic bands each year from roots and Americana, to funk, rock, soul and more.   In 2017 the Festival hosted over 90 bands on 7 stages.  

"Things You Must Do In The Bay Area Before You Die: Hardly Strictly Bluegrass" - SF Gate
The History
This beloved community event came to be over a breakfast meeting with Warren Hellman in 2001.  At that point, Warren was simply interested in creating a venue for some of his favorite artists to perform and to offer an opportunity to see them as a gift to the city.   This event would be called Strictly Bluegrass.  

As time went on and the festival grew and wanted to incorporate more artists than just bluegrass, the festival adopted its current title of Hardly Strictly Bluegrass.  The festival prides itself on being able to delight concertgoers with new and unexpected acts every year alongside annual favorites such as Emmylou Harris and Steve Earle.  

"This is the great gift of Warren Hellman, the one and only, to not only the City of San Francisco, but the world of music." - SF Chronicle 
 SAVE THE DATE
Honoring the beautiful legacy of Warren and Chris Hellman, their four children, and directors of the Hellman Foundation, oversee the Festival and are guided by the mission and values that they have created for its impact.