Night of Ideas 2026: Free Evening Festival (SF Main Library)

Submitted by the Event Organizer

Join us for San Francisco’s Night of Ideas 2026, where the theme “Lighting the Way,” invites us to explore how ideas, creativity, and collective action can illuminate paths forward, helping reveal new ways of thinking and connecting about what’s next. From cultural expression to shared responsibility, Lighting the Way asks what guides us, what inspires positive change, and how we can actively shape a more connected future together.

Ahead of the evening program, Afternoon of Ideas returns with a family-friendly experience designed to welcome youth into the spirit of the event. Through hands-on workshops, playful performances, and creative activities led by artists, educators, and children’s book authors, the daytime program invites curiosity, play, and intergenerational exchange.

Join Villa Albertine San Francisco, Asian Art Museum, Circuit Network, KQED, and the San Francisco Public Library for a dynamic marathon of talks, live performances, workshops, food, art, and shared exploration. Together, Night of Ideas creates space for collective imagination where ideas are exchanged, perspectives are expanded, and the way forward is shaped in real time.

Presented by San Francisco Public Library

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.