It's been a frigid December so far, but tomorrow in Hayes Valley, there'll be eggnog, art shows, and plenty of neighborly good cheer to warm you up. From 5-9pm, Hayes Street shops will offer food, drink and live music, as Hayes Valley merchants showcase the best of their wares for the 25th annual Hayes Valley Holiday Block Party.
The block party was founded in 1990 by former merchant Russell Pritchard and arts activist Madeline Behrens-Brigham, who had stores on Hayes Street when it was a less-than-desirable place to be after dark. “The main reason we started the block party was to encourage people to come to our neighborhood,” Madeline told us.
A number of businesses will extend their hours, offering up special deals and pop-up events. Here are a few notable ones:
Photograph and Frame (465 Hayes St.) will be hosting an art exhibition of work by its staff. All pieces shown will be small works—particularly good for holiday gifts.
Boutique Gather (541 Octavia St.) will be hosting some of its favorite local artists for a pop-up. An expanded selection of goods from SanFrancycle and Shop Blue Gnome will be available, along with wine and cookies. Customers who spend more than $50 will get a free mystery gift.
Around the corner, Taylor Monroe (448 Grove St.) is serving up "yummy treats," spiked eggnog, White Russians and up to 30 percent off salon products.
In addition to visiting the regular brick-and-mortar merchants of the neighborhood, the block party is also a good opportunity to swing by the art gallery pop-up at PROXY, located next to Biergarten and featuring the work of local artists.
Last but not least, the Hayes Valley Neighborhood Association (HVNA) will be hosting a silent auction fundraiser. Swing by their booth near Patricia's Green between 6-8pm to buy a raffle ticket—the prizes are all donated by local merchants.
Bundle up! We'll see you out there.
