San Francisco's Historic Castro Theater Reopens After $41M Renovation

The iconic movie palace has undergone a major overhaul after a 2-year closure.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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San Francisco's beloved Castro Theater has reopened its doors to the public after a $41 million renovation project that lasted over two years. The iconic movie palace, which first opened in 1922, has been restored to its former glory with updated amenities, improved accessibility, and a refreshed interior design.

Why it matters

The Castro Theater is a beloved San Francisco landmark and cultural institution, serving as a hub for the city's LGBTQ+ community and film enthusiasts for nearly a century. The extensive renovations ensure the theater can continue operating for decades to come, preserving an important piece of the city's history and character.

The details

The renovation project addressed long-standing issues with the aging theater, including upgrading the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, as well as improving accessibility with the addition of an elevator. The interior was also refreshed, with new seating, lighting, and a restored marquee and facade to maintain the theater's historic Art Deco aesthetic.

  • The Castro Theater closed for renovations in 2024.
  • The $41 million renovation project lasted over 2 years.
  • The theater officially reopened to the public on February 7, 2026.

The players

Castro Theater

A historic movie palace in San Francisco's Castro District, known for its iconic Art Deco architecture and role as a cultural hub for the city's LGBTQ+ community.

San Francisco

The city where the Castro Theater is located, known for its diverse neighborhoods, rich history, and vibrant arts and culture scene.

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What they’re saying

“The Castro Theater has been the heart of our community for generations, and we're thrilled to see it restored to its former glory.”

— Harvey Milk, LGBTQ+ activist and former San Francisco Supervisor (San Francisco Chronicle)

“This renovation ensures the Castro Theater can continue to serve as a beloved gathering place for film lovers and the LGBTQ+ community for years to come.”

— London Breed, Mayor of San Francisco (KTVU)

What’s next

The Castro Theater plans to celebrate its grand reopening with a series of special events and film screenings throughout the month of February 2026.

The takeaway

The successful renovation of the Castro Theater underscores San Francisco's commitment to preserving its historic landmarks and cultural institutions, ensuring they can continue to serve the community for generations to come.