Thousands of Deadheads gathered in San Francisco on August 1, 2025, to launch a weekend-long celebration marking the Grateful Dead’s 60th anniversary. The festivities began with the inaugural “Heart of Town” tribute concert at Pier 48, hosted by Grahame Lesh & Friends. Grahame, son of founding bassist Phil Lesh, honored his father and the band’s legacy through classic Dead tunes and heartfelt reflections, including a poignant story about how organ donation extended Phil’s life.
The Pier 48 stage transformed into a vibrant setting of psychedelic lights and tapestries, evoking the band’s iconic aesthetic. Guest musicians such as Stephen Stills and members of Dawes joined Lesh on stage, adding layers of nostalgia and community to an evening that echoed the inclusive spirit synonymous with Deadhead culture.
Meanwhile, Dead & Company launched a three-night residency at Golden Gate Park’s Polo Field, performing to an audience of approximately 60,000 fans per night. Original members Bob Weir and Mickey Hart performed alongside John Mayer and others, with Billy Strings opening on August 1, followed by Sturgill Simpson and Trey Anastasio Band on subsequent nights.
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Their opening-night set drew mixed but deeply engaged reactions. It began with a reflective pace, featuring tracks like “Tennessee Jed” and “Althea,” before elevating into an expansive second set. The improvisational energy peaked with collaborations featuring Grahame Lesh and Billy Strings, and standout moments included renditions of “Box of Rain,” “Terrapin Station,” and a stirring encore of “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door.”
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Outside the concerts, San Francisco came alive with themed public transport, pop-up vendor markets dubbed “Shakedown Street,” and cultural tributes. A newly renamed Jerry Garcia Street in the Excelsior District paid homage to the legendary guitarist on what would have been his 83rd birthday. The vibrant streetscape and city-sponsored events underscored San Francisco’s deep ties to the Grateful Dead community, drawing visitors from across all 50 states and dozens of countries.
The combined draw of Dead & Company and the accompanying festivities have given the city a powerful boost—hotel occupancy is soaring, local businesses and vendors are experiencing record sales, and tourism numbers are trending upward amid the cultural high of the anniversary weekend.
This three-day celebration—anchored by both intimate tribute shows and large-scale performances—reinforces the enduring legacy of the Grateful Dead. It bridges generational divides, honoring historical roots while celebrating a living tradition grounded in community, improvisation, and musical exploration. As the weekend continues through August 3, the spirit of the Dead shines brightest in their spiritual home.
