For its first three years, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass was known as “Strictly Bluegrass,” a telling name change that speaks to the festival’s original ethos. It’s about the only thing Hardly Strictly Bluegrass has changed since 2001 — the no-cost admission, the organizing family (descendants of billionaire philanthropist Warren Hellman) and the location in Golden Gate Park have all remained the same.
Are the crowds bigger now? Sure. Almost as big as the entire population of San Francisco. But that just makes it more impressive that Hardly Strictly Bluegrass still feels thrown together, improvised, even as it courts some of the biggest names in folk rock, blues, and bluegrass. Artists including Cyndi Lauper, Gillian Welch, Earl Scruggs, and Kurt Vile have played the fest’s six stages. There’s no telling who will play in 2024 — the lineup tends to get a late release — but it’s sure to be a combination of big stars and up-and-comers. Emmylou Harris and Steve Earle are the only guarantees — they come back every year.
Being at a free, noncommercial festival doesn’t mean you can’t buy food, though. Last year’s food vendors included Curry Up Now, Home Coffee Roasters, and Mission Street Burgers. Be aware that all vendors at this year’s festival are cashless, and alcohol is not permitted anywhere in the park. What about good vibes, you ask? Those are welcome all weekend long.
The Specs
- 750,000 people are expected over the three days.
- Entrance is free.
- Check out our list of what to do in San Francisco.
FAQs
Where and when is Hardly Strictly Bluegrass?
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass festival 2024 will take place in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, California from October 4–6.
Where exactly does it take place?
The three-day live music fest takes place in Golden Gate Park at Hellman Hollow, Marx and Lindley meadows. Hellman Hollow is located at 800 John F Kennedy Dr, San Francisco, CA 94122 (John F. Kennedy Drive and Transverse Drive).
Which airport is closest to the festival grounds?
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is 14 miles away.
What is the bag policy?
There is no official bag policy.
Is the festival ADA-accessible?
Accessible parking is available. Golden Gate Park includes a mixture of both paved and unpaved terrain.
Is there a new “Voices in Harmony” episode?
Yes, the festival has selected a handful of duos and duets for episode 2, “Voices in Harmony.” You can see it here.
What’s the official website?
https://www.hardlystrictlybluegrass.com/
Where will the free water refills be?
Free water refills will be available between Banjo Stage and Arrow Meadow.
Which artists are on the festival lineup?
The 2024 lineup includes:
- AJ Lee & Blue Summit
- Alice Gerrard
- Big Star Quintet’s “Radio City” 50th Anniversary – performed by Jody Stephens (Big Star), Mike Mills (R.E.M.), Jon Auer (The Posies), Chris Stamey (The dB’s), and Pat Sansone (Wilco)
- Bobby Rush
- The Bones of J.R. Jones
- Brandy Clark
- Carlene Carter
- Cat Power Sings Dylan ’66
- Combo Tezeta
- DakhaBrakha
- Devendra Banhart
- Emmylou Harris
- Fruition
- Glen Hansard
- Greensky Bluegrass
- Haley Heynderickx
- Ibibio Sound Machine
- Jessica Pratt
- Jobi Riccio
- John Cooper Clarke
- Levitation Room
- Matt The Electrician
- Mavis Staples
- Robyn Hitchcock
- Sean McConnell
- Sleater-Kinney
- Steve Earle
- Tony Trischka’s Earl Jam
- Wonder Women of Country
- The Wood Brothers
- Wreckless Strangers
Playlist
Poster
