Tune in Tonight for Fare Thee Well Radio Show! Before we dive into the momentous occasion in Golden Gate Park, remember to catch tonight’s special “Fare Thee Well Radio Show.” Born from the desire to honor Jerry Garcia’s enduring legacy and keep the Grateful Dead’s spirit alive, “Fare Thee Well” is a poignant musical tribute showcasing the vibrant post-Garcia endeavors of the surviving members. It’s a journey through the musical evolution sparked by a profound loss, a testament to the enduring power of this incredible community.
Sixty years. Six decades. A lifetime for many, and for the Grateful Dead, it’s a testament to a musical journey unlike any other. This weekend, the hallowed grounds of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park will once again become a sacred space, a vibrant convergence of generations of Deadheads, as Dead & Company lead a three-night celebration of the Grateful Dead’s 60th anniversary. From August 1st to 3rd, the Polo Field is set to host an estimated 60,000 pilgrims each day, all gathered to honor the enduring magic of the legendary jam band. And here at Dead Set Live, where every song played is the live version, we’re ready to break down everything you need to know for this monumental event.
The Lineup: A Galaxy of Live Talent
This isn’t just a Dead & Company show; it’s a multi-faceted live experience, with each night kicking off with a stellar special guest, setting the stage for the headlining act.
Friday, August 1st: The weekend ignites with the undeniable talent of bluegrass virtuoso Billy Strings. His electrifying live performances are a force of nature, blending traditional bluegrass with a ferocious, improvisational energy that perfectly complements the Dead’s ethos. Expect his set to be a masterclass in acoustic dexterity and raw passion. After Billy Strings sets the tone, Dead & Company, featuring original Grateful Dead members Bob Weir and Mickey Hart, alongside John Mayer, Oteil Burbridge, Jeff Chimenti, and Jay Lane, will take the stage. Imagine the extended jams, the familiar refrains taking on new life, the call and response between band and audience – it’s going to be a captivating first night.
Saturday, August 2nd: Get ready for a unique twist as Sturgill Simpson performs under his captivating alter-ego, Johnny Blue Skies. Simpson’s musical chameleon-like ability means we’re in for something truly special and unexpected in a live setting. What will “Johnny Blue Skies” bring to the Golden Gate? Only the live performance will tell. Following this intriguing opening, Dead & Company will once again deliver their unique improvisational tapestry, weaving together beloved classics and deep cuts with the spontaneity that defines their live shows.
Sunday, August 3rd: The grand finale sees the iconic Trey Anastasio Band opening the proceedings. Phish frontman Trey Anastasio’s command of the guitar and his band’s tight, dynamic live performances are legendary. This promises to be a powerful and soulful prelude to Dead & Company’s closing set. With Trey’s signature soaring solos and the band’s infectious grooves, the energy will be palpable before Dead & Company brings the 60th-anniversary celebration to a resounding close. These headline sets from Dead & Company are guaranteed to be unique, evolving soundscapes, built on the foundation of six decades of improvisational brilliance.
The Logistics: Navigating the Golden Gate Gathering
For those fortunate enough to be attending this historic run, here’s the essential guide to navigating Golden Gate Park:
- Concert Schedule: Doors open daily at 2:30 p.m., with shows commencing at 4 p.m. Mark your calendars for Friday, August 1st, through Sunday, August 3rd.
- Location, Location, Location: The Polo Field in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, is your destination. Be aware that the Polo Field itself will be closed through August 20th, and expect wide-reaching park and road closures, especially during concert hours. John F. Kennedy Drive and Middle Drive will see significant restrictions, impacting both vehicles and, at times, pedestrians and cyclists. The western meadows will also be off-limits. Plan accordingly!
- Getting There is Half the Journey: Public transit is highly recommended. Muni is stepping up service on the 5-Fulton and N-Judah lines, offering free rides to ticket holders through their “Your Ticket, Your Fare” program. Bike parking will be available on-site, and local shuttles will be running from central San Francisco to ease your travel.
- Entry Points: Know your gates! The North Main Gate is located on JFK Drive near 30th Avenue, the South Gate at Middle Drive and Metson Road, and VIP entrances at JFK and 36th Avenue, and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive near the South Gate.
- Shakedown Street & Merch Mecca: The legendary Shakedown Street makes its triumphant return as a fully sanctioned market. From 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, nearly 100 vendors will line JFK Promenade between Transverse and Blue Heron Lake streets. Expect a vibrant tapestry of tie-dye, handcrafted goods, and all the classic Deadhead essentials. For exclusive merchandise, don’t miss the Dead & Company Pop-Up Shop at Polk Hall in the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium (99 Grove St.), open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Wednesday, July 30th, through Sunday, August 3rd. Remember, it’s a cashless operation!
Weathering the Weekend: Be Prepared, Always
San Francisco in August means classic cool, breezy, and often variable conditions. Chronicle meteorologist Anthony Edwards predicts Friday to be the foggiest, with gradual clearing on Saturday and mostly sunny skies by Sunday. Temperatures during showtime will hover in the low to mid-60s, dipping into the 50s as night falls. Even with the Polo Field’s tree cover, expect gusty winds, especially in the evening. Layer up! A good rule of thumb for any live outdoor show: be ready for anything Mother Nature throws your way.
Tickets and Tuning In From Home: The Music Never Stops
While original general admission weekend passes at $635 (with VIP tiers soaring to $9,548) are long gone, the music will still flow. For those unable to join in person, nugs.net will be streaming all three nights in glorious HD or 4K. And for a truly immersive experience, the final show on Sunday, August 3rd, will be screened live in select IMAX theaters nationwide. This means the magic of the live Grateful Dead experience, in some form, is accessible to everyone.
What to Bring (and What to Leave): Show Day Essentials
To ensure a smooth entry and an enjoyable experience, familiarize yourself with the bag policy: clear bags are preferred, with small non-clear purses allowed (max 6″x8″x3″). Hydration packs are permitted if under 2.5 liters and without extra compartments. Leave your personal chairs and metal-framed seating at home; blankets under 2’x3′ are permitted. Oversized blankets, tarps, inflatables, and unattended belongings are prohibited.
Beyond the Park: A Citywide Celebration
The 60th anniversary isn’t confined to Golden Gate Park. San Francisco is brimming with related events extending into the fall, including art exhibitions, after-parties that will keep the good vibes flowing, tribute concerts celebrating various facets of the Dead’s legacy, and engaging panel discussions. Don’t miss Jerry Day in McLaren Park, a heartfelt tribute to the iconic frontman, or the San Francisco Giants’ Grateful Dead tribute night at Oracle Park on August 12th. The spirit of the Grateful Dead is truly alive and well throughout the city by the bay.
This weekend is more than just a series of concerts; it’s a living, breathing testament to the enduring power of the Grateful Dead’s music and the vibrant community it created. Sixty years on, the ripple effect of their improvisation, their generosity, and their undeniable spirit continues to captivate, inspire, and bring people together. Get ready to experience it all, live and in living color, at Golden Gate Park!
