BAY AREA CHUSEOK FESTIVALS

The Bay Area is gearing up for an exciting double dose of Korean culture with the Chuseok Festival, a cherished celebration of Korea’s traditional harvest holiday. Organized by Korean Center, Inc., this annual event returns with two distinct gatherings in 2025, offering a rich tapestry of food, music, and community spirit. Mark your calendars for September 27th at the Presidio Front Lawn in San Francisco and October 4th at the Westgate Center in San Jose.

September 27th: Presidio Front Lawn, San Francisco

The 7th Annual Chuseok Festival kicks off on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Presidio Front Lawn. This vibrant outdoor event transforms the historic Main Parade Lawn into a hub of Korean heritage, welcoming thousands with bold flavors, rhythmic performances, and cross-generational connections. Highlights include live K-Pop dance covers, traditional Korean drumming, and fan dancing, alongside a variety of food vendors serving authentic and fusion Korean dishes. Families can enjoy hands-on activities like traditional games and crafts, while local artists and nonprofits showcase their work. Free and open to all ages, this celebration is made accessible with American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and accommodations available upon request. Parking is paid, with public transit options via Muni 43 Masonic or the Presidio GO Shuttle.

October 4th: Westgate Center, San Jose

The festivities continue on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Westgate Center in San Jose, marking a new addition to the Wo Chuseok Festival lineup. This second event brings the same cultural richness to the South Bay, featuring live performances, delicious Korean cuisine, and family-friendly activities. Expect a lineup of local talent, traditional games, and community booths, all set against the backdrop of Westgate’s bustling environment. As with the Presidio event, entry is free, making it an inclusive opportunity to experience Korea’s harvest traditions. Details on parking and transit will be shared closer to the date, so stay tuned.

A Celebration of Community and Culture

Both festivals honor Chuseok, Korea’s equivalent to Thanksgiving, with a focus on gratitude and togetherness. Behind the scenes, Korean Center, Inc. relies on volunteers and community support to keep these events free and accessible, funding year-round cultural programs and youth initiatives. Whether you’re reconnecting with your roots or discovering Korean culture for the first time, these Bay Area celebrations promise a day of joy, connection, and creativity.

Follow @sfchuseok for the latest updates, and RSVP at koreancentersf.org to help with planning. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the spirit of Chuseok across the Bay Area!