SF’s 115th Annual Hayes Valley Carnival (2026)

Submitted by the Event Organizer

The Hayes Valley Carnival is back on Saturday, July 18, 2026, bringing a free afternoon of circus performances, street games, and community celebration to the heart of the neighborhood.

The main draw is Circus Bella, performing two shows at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. at PROXY, the open-air public space at Hayes and Octavia Streets. Expect a classic big-top style circus with acrobatics, clowning, and family-friendly energy right in the middle of the city.

Beyond the stage, the carnival spreads across Hayes Street and Patricia’s Green with games, prizes, and pop-up activities hosted throughout the neighborhood. Fiddlesticks will be on hand to run games and keep the energy going throughout the afternoon.

Food and drinks come from local Hayes Valley favorites and vendors, with options ranging from casual bites to neighborhood staples. Hayz Dog will also be serving up hot dogs for an easy grab-and-go option while you explore.

The event has deep local roots. First launched in 1911 as a post-earthquake celebration of resilience, the Hayes Valley Carnival returned in 2022 after a long pause and has quickly become a summer tradition again.

Transit is encouraged since parking is extremely limited. The closest options include Civic Center BART, Van Ness Muni Metro, the F Market streetcar at Gough, and Muni lines 21 Hayes and 5 McAllister. The Performing Arts Garage is the nearest paid parking option.

Portable restrooms will be located on Linden Street between Octavia and Gough.

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.