There are plenty of outdoor activities around the neighborhood this weekend, but be advised that you'll have to postpone your run around the Kezar stadium track, which is closed through Sunday for track repainting. For a different opportunity to get outdoors, check out these other activities happening nearby.
Saturday, August 22nd
Volunteer in Golden Gate Park
A couple of recurring volunteer opportunities are happening in Golden Gate Park this Saturday from 9am-noon. The first is the Alvord Lake Volunteer Project, where you can join Parks and Rec Department gardeners to help beautify the eastern entrance to the park.
The second, more westward opportunity is the North Lake Volunteer Workparty. Here, you'll join gardeners and Audubon Society members and focus on habitat restoration. Meet at the restroom pavilion on JFK Drive at Chain of Lakes Drive East.
For both events, light refreshments will be provided. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes, long pants and layers, and RSVP to recparkvolunteer [at] sfgov [dot] org.
Photo: SF Rec and Park Department
Bean Sprout Family Days
Every Saturday from April to October, the Botanical Garden invites families with children of all ages to the Children's Garden from noon-3pm for Bean Sprouts Family Days. Water plants, create a crazy critter, dig in their dune sand pit, or share a book in their Living Room. You're also invited to bring a picnic lunch. It's free with regular admission (which is also free for SF residents).
Teen Computer Corps
If you want to become more computer-savvy, drop into the Sunset Library Branch (1305 18th Ave.) from 2-4pm for some free computer coaching from tech-loving teens. Teen Computer Corps "seeks to address the digital divide faced by many library patrons over 50" by "work[ing] one-on-one, helping seniors get acquainted with the latest technology in San Francisco Public Library’s computer training center."
Sutro Stewardship Training
The Sutro Stewards, a group of volunteer naturalists who maintain the trails and habitats inside the Sutro Forest, is offering a one-day leadership training program on Saturday from 8:30am-5pm. If you love the outdoors and want to improve your knowledge while giving back, this could be for you. The training is divided into habitat and trails leadership skills; you'll learn about the design and flow of trail segments, as well as how to recognize beneficial and invasive species. To join, register here, then meet at 195 Behr Ave.
Photo: Sutro Stewards
Sunday, August 23rd
Inner Sunset Farmers' Market
Melons, tomatoes, and figs are all in season this week at the Inner Sunset Farmers' Market, so head over to 9th Ave. between Irving and Judah from 9am-1pm. Their third annual photo contest runs until the end of the month, so snap a pic and hashtag it #lovemyPCFMAmarket on Facebook or Instagram for a chance to win a night at a bed and breakfast and other prizes. For recipes and tips on choosing the tastiest melon, check out Market Thymes, the Pacific Coast Farmers Market Association newsletter.
Festival of the Chariots
The 49th annual Festival of the Chariots, known throughout India as the 'Ratha Yatra' festival, "has been performed for thousands of years in Puri, India. On [Sunday], it is celebrated in all major cities through out the world." The parade, in which three large chariots are pulled by ropes through Golden Gate Park, begins at 11am at JFK and Transverse Dr. The festival, which kicks off in Sharon Meadow at 1pm, offers free vegetarian meals, live music, ancient Indian dances, exhibits, books, and more. Over 3,000 people attend each year.
Photo: scupperssf/Flickr
Juggling Club
Experienced instructors at Circus Center (755 Frederick St.) lead this free weekly club, where you can try your hand juggling scarves, balls, feathers, clubs and more. All levels and ages over 8 are welcome, though students under 15 must be accompanied by a parent, and students under 18 must have a parent sign a release form. They meet from 2-5pm, and you can RSVP here.
Robert Emmet Day
Beginning at 1pm on Sunday, the Golden Gate Park Band celebrates Robert Emmet Day with Irish music, costumes, and dance. The free concert takes place at the Music Concourse Bandshell in Golden Gate Park, just north of the concert's namesake statue.
Enjoy the weekend!
