The Guide to

San Francisco's Folsom Street Fair

Anything goes in San Francisco—and nowhere is that more true than at the annual Folsom Street Fair, the world’s largest leather event. It’s a space where self-expression knows no bounds, but respect, consent, and a judgment-free atmosphere are at the heart of it all. Whether you’re a curious onlooker or a longtime member of the community, you’ll find an inclusive, welcoming vibe that makes this free fair unforgettable.

History of Folsom Street Fair

Long before the first Folsom Street Fair, San Francisco had become a refuge for those who had been pushed out elsewhere. After World War II, sailors discharged from the military for being gay found their way to the city, seeking acceptance they couldn’t find at home. Over time, LGBTQ+ spaces began to flourish across San Francisco, with bars and clubs scattered in many neighborhoods.

By the 1960s and ’70s, SoMa had emerged as a vibrant hub for gay motorcycle clubs and leather bars, becoming a gathering place for people whose identities and desires were often misunderstood or marginalized.

The AIDS crisis of the 1980s brought unimaginable loss. In the midst of grief and fear, local authorities shuttered bathhouses and placed strict regulations on bars. But the community refused to disappear. In 1984, they organized the first Folsom Street Fair, not just as a celebration, but as a powerful act of solidarity, visibility, and defiance.

This concentration of community didn’t happen by accident; it grew from both the draw of shared culture and the fight to protect it. When redevelopment projects threatened to erase these spaces, residents and business owners resisted fiercely, ultimately preserving SoMa as a sanctuary for self-expression. 

That fight for recognition paid off. SoMa now holds the distinction of being the world’s first LGBT+ leather cultural district officially recognized by a city, a testament to its deep roots and enduring influence.

Today, the Folsom Street Fair welcomes over 400,000 people from around the world. It remains a place where anything goes—but always with respect, mutual consent, and a judgment-free spirit. For many, it’s more than a festival; it’s a living reminder of resilience, love, and the right to be unapologetically yourself.

Highlights of Folsom Street Fair

You see so many interesting things going on at Folsom that it's hard to figure out what to check out first.

If you love people-watching, you get to see many amazing people doing what they love. The attendees often come dressed in their best, with latex, leather, rubber and other fetish clothing making appearances. Nudity is also permitted at the fair, and you'll see some truly dazzling displays of body paint and other body accessories.

Hundreds of vendors display a wide range of goods, from handmade leather whips to beautiful latex dresses. You could spend all day simply walking from booth to booth and making a massive shopping list. The vendors are happy to talk about ways to safely use their products or help you try on some of the unique fetish wear.

Public play stations give you a chance to try your hand at some BDSM activities, such as learning how to throw a flogger. You can also catch some truly mesmerizing performances at the erotic artists' stage, which gives you a thrilling look at the full range of expression inherent in leather and BDSM. You'll come out of the fair with a much better understanding of San Francisco leather history, the wide variety of kinks out there, and an appreciation for the diverse subculture it brings.

Many people focus on the BDSM and leather attractions, but the music is also exceptional if you like electronic dance, alternative and indie music. A central main stage has live shows going the entire time, adding to the energy of the fair. You get to see a lot of new acts, so if you want to catch concerts from up and coming bands, spend time around the stages. You might think the public play stations offer the best fun at the fair, but the two dance areas might well take the top spot.

Do's and Don'ts of Folsom Street Fair

• Do come in with an open mind. You'll find plenty of fascinating, new things to explore, along with people happy to tell you more.
• Do bring plenty of water and sunscreen. You're going to be out in the sun all day in large crowds, so you want to prepare for the conditions.
• Do block off the entire day to explore the fair. You'll have a great time well into the night, and it's hard to pull yourself away once you're immersed in this high-energy crowd.
• Don't bring your kids. This isn't a family-friendly event, so plan on getting a babysitter for the day.
• Don't base your understanding of the leather and BDSM subcultures on popular media, such as "50 Shades of Gray." Spend some time learning about the history behind the event and what these lifestyles are like, so you walk into the fair with the right expectations.
• Don't talk to artists when they're in the middle of performing. You'll see a wide range of shows, and they need to concentrate on what they're doing. In many cases, you can catch them at a booth or public play area after they're done, which is a great time to ask any questions you have. Just make sure to check and see if they are okay with sharing information.

How to Get to Folsom Street Fair

Don't expect to drive through SoMa during the Folsom Street Fair. You have 13 blocks closed off, and that causes traffic problems throughout the entire area. BART and Muni both take you to this exciting destination. The fair spans across a massive area, so check for the station closest to where you want to get started on Folsom Street. Be aware that public transit will be crowded due to the amount of people coming into the fair.