The Castro Could Become SF’s Largest Open-Air “Party” Zone
The Castro could become SF’s largest entertainment zone.
San Francisco’s nightlife scene might be getting a big boost, as a new proposal could turn The Castro into the city’s largest “entertainment zone.” If approved, this designation would allow bars in the area to serve to-go cocktails during permitted street events, creating an open-air party atmosphere similar to what’s been seen in other parts of the city.
Entertainment zones have been popping up across SF, allowing attendees at street fairs and special events to enjoy drinks outdoors within designated areas. So far, locations like the Financial District and the Chase Center have hosted these pop-up zones, but The Castro’s proposed boundaries would make it the largest yet.
The zone would cover key nightlife corridors, including stretches of Market, 18th, 14th, and Church Streets, encompassing popular bars like Beaux, The Mix, The Edge, and the historic Twin Peaks Tavern. The Castro Theatre, currently undergoing renovations, would also fall within the zone, meaning it could potentially serve to-go cocktails once it reopens this summer.
Unlike permanent entertainment districts in cities like New Orleans, this proposal only allows outdoor drinking during approved street closures, such as the Castro Street Fair or Castro Night Market. Drinks would need to stay within the designated zone, and patrons wouldn’t be allowed to bring them inside other businesses.
There’s no official timeline for the proposal yet, as it still needs committee approvals before heading to the full SF Board of Supervisors for a vote. If it passes, The Castro’s vibrant nightlife could reach a whole new level—giving the LGBTQ+ district a well-earned reputation as the city’s premier outdoor party hub.
H/t SFist
