Stern Grove Festival Announces Stacked 2026 Lineup

The beloved free outdoor music series in San Francisco will feature legendary acts like Public Enemy, Al Green, and Patti LaBelle.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:33am by Ben Kaplan

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A striking, abstract illustration featuring bold, geometric shapes and silhouettes in high-contrast colors, conceptually representing the diverse musical acts performing at the Stern Grove Festival.The Stern Grove Festival's 2026 lineup promises an unforgettable summer of free, world-class live music in the heart of San Francisco.San Francisco Today

The Stern Grove Festival, a cherished San Francisco tradition providing free live music to the community for nearly 90 years, has unveiled its impressive 2026 lineup. The festival will run from June 14 to August 16 at the Sigmund Stern Grove amphitheater, featuring headliners such as hip-hop pioneers Public Enemy, soul legend Al Green, and R&B diva Patti LaBelle, as well as electronic group Major Lazer, indie rockers Japanese Breakfast, and the long-running San Francisco Symphony.

Why it matters

The Stern Grove Festival is a beloved San Francisco tradition, providing free live music to the community for nearly 90 years. This year's star-studded lineup is sure to draw large crowds and cement the festival's reputation as one of the premier summer events in the Bay Area, showcasing both iconic national acts and talented local artists.

The details

The 2026 Stern Grove Festival will feature headliners such as hip-hop pioneers Public Enemy, soul legend Al Green, and R&B diva Patti LaBelle. Other big names on the bill include electronic group Major Lazer, indie rockers Japanese Breakfast, and the long-running San Francisco Symphony. In addition to the national acts, the festival will highlight several Bay Area-based performers including Marinero, La Misa Negra, Nicki Bluhm, and Goapele.

  • The Stern Grove Festival will run from June 14 to August 16, 2026.
  • Tickets will be available through a lottery system posted on the festival's website, sterngrove.org.
  • The festival will culminate with a 'Big Picnic Weekend' fundraiser on August 15-16 featuring Public Enemy and Al Green.

The players

Stern Grove Festival

A beloved free outdoor music festival in San Francisco that has been running for nearly 90 years, providing the community with live performances from iconic national acts as well as local Bay Area talent.

Matthew Goldman

The board chairman of the Stern Grove Festival, who emphasized the importance of supporting live music and honoring local artists as the festival celebrates its 89th season.

Public Enemy

Legendary hip-hop group known for their politically-charged lyrics and influential role in the development of rap music, set to headline the festival's 'Big Picnic Weekend' fundraiser.

Al Green

Iconic soul singer and songwriter, also scheduled to perform at the Stern Grove Festival's 'Big Picnic Weekend' fundraiser.

Patti LaBelle

Renowned R&B vocalist and performer, one of the headliners for the 2026 Stern Grove Festival.

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What they’re saying

“As we celebrate our 89th season, supporting live music feels more important than ever. With half our lineup rooted in Bay Area talent, we are honoring our local artists and staying true to our mission while ensuring this beloved tradition continues to thrive for generations to come.”

— Matthew Goldman, Board Chairman, Stern Grove Festival

What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 Stern Grove Festival will be available through a lottery system posted on the festival's website, sterngrove.org. Attendees will also have the option to purchase table reservations for large groups.

The takeaway

The Stern Grove Festival's stacked 2026 lineup, featuring a mix of iconic national acts and talented local artists, underscores the festival's enduring importance as a beloved San Francisco tradition that brings the community together through the power of live music.